CBD & The Endocannabinoid System
CBD works on receptors within the endocannabinoid system, a part of the nervous system that operates as a network in the body of all mammals that sends messages from the brain to its various parts.
This is accomplished through neurotransmitters, communication chemicals that transmit messages from special cells called neurons that send and receive sensory input to receptors that receive that information.
The neurotransmitters that work within the endocannabinoid system are called endocannabinoids and for the purpose of this article we will discuss two specific types: endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids.
Endocannabinoids are cannabinoids created within the body and phytocannabinoids are cannabinoids that come from plants like cannabis. Since cannabinoids send pain relief and anti-inflammatory messages it can then be inferred that CBD, the dominant active cannabinoid in hemp, plays a prominent role in addressing negative symptoms associated with many diseases.
CBD & Serotonin
Sometimes referred to as the “happy chemical”, serotonin plays a prominent role in a wide variety of functions in the human body that include mood regulation, mental cognition, reward paths, learning capabilities, and memory, along with various physiological processes such as vasoconstriction.
Animal research on CBD conducted in 2014 and 2019 confirm its effect on the brain’s serotonin receptors. Since serotonin affects feelings of wellbeing, it is believed that CBD can help alleviate feelings of depression and therefore improve the mental disposition of cancer patients overall.
What are the Cancer Symptoms Treated with CBD?
According to some medical professionals, research is not conclusive on the question of whether CBD alleviates the actual cancer symptoms or if CBD helps with the side effects of cancer treatment because the studies are not “clear” – despite the information referenced above that detail scientific evidence about CBD shrinking tumours (see “Scientific Evidence for Treating Cancer”).
Reports on the effects of cannabinoids THC and CBD for cancer patients have concluded that it may be helpful for digestive concerns like nausea, vomiting and anorexia, in addition to treating symptoms like neuropathy, insomnia, anxiety & depression. These may or may not be related to harsh medical procedures like chemotherapy that severely compromise the immune system.
Organic CBD for Cancer Therapy
Since the soils on the planet are affected by toxic chemicals, it is wise to choose CBD supplements derived from organic hemp that is free of pesticides, herbicides, solvent residues, microbials, glyphosate and chlorophyll.
Accordingly, the CBD extraction process also factors into the quality of the CBD supplement.
All CBD products sold by Green Cuisine use a clean CO2 extraction process that makes sure that all products are free from toxins and are further tested to ensure potency and purity for maximum effectiveness.
CBD for Cancer Treatments
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of many chemicals in the hemp plant that is increasingly being used to treat the symptoms of many diseases that include its topical use for muscle aches, muscle sprains, skin conditions to its internal use for symptoms associated with inflammation, chronic pain, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis.
While many people reach for CBD to treat the symptoms of mild conditions, it has recently gained popularity among cancer patients. Being a serious disease, the use of CBD supplements for cancer has come under scrutiny by health authorities and particularly for claims being made that it “cures” cancer.
This article will shed light on what CBD can and cannot do according to the latest research, so cancer patients can make the best decision with the guidance of their healthcare provider.
Hemp vs. Marijuana for Cancer
Prior to considering the use of CBD for treating cancer, it is imperative to distinguish the differences between hemp and marijuana, two related plants in the cannabis family.
Marijuana contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – the active psychoactive ingredient that produces feelings of euphoria, often described as a “high”.
In contrast, hemp contains minimal amounts of THC and many strains have been bred to have large amounts of CBD. This key distinction is important to consider – particularly for patients that are ill and do not want any psychoactive effects during their therapy.
Is there Scientific Evidence For Treating Cancer with CBD?
The scientific evidence supporting the use of CBD for treating the symptoms of cancer is clear, particularly its efficacy in reducing the size of tumours.
A notable review focused on cancer of the pancreas found that cannabinoids such as THC and CBD can help slow tumour growth, reduce the invasion of tumours and even cause them to die. While the studies seem promising, it must be noted that the researchers recommend further studies into the effectiveness of different formulations and dosing requirements in order to substantiate these results.
Breast cancer cell proliferation (spread) and invasion was found to be reduced by the use of CBD as per research from 2010. In addition, another long-term study conducted in 2019 provided some evidence that, while the exact causes and relationships are unclear, the use of CBD may be inversely associated with bladder cancer risk.
Side Effects of CBD Oil for Cancer
Most reports and studies confirm that CBD is safe to use with minimal, if any, side effects.
One notable study on mice determined however that it can have negative effects on the liver. While the dosage amounts were extremely high in the study, it could highlight what may happen if there was an overdose in a severely immunocompromised person.
Some lab studies have shown that CBD can inhibit certain enzymes responsible for metabolizing pharmaceuticals, including those used in chemotherapy and other medications.
CBD Oil Drops for Cancer Therapy
Green Cuisine Organic CBD Oil Drops are made from premium CBD paste combined with olive oil. Organic and derived using a cold-extraction process, they are packaged in a convenient dropper bottle ideal for accurate dosing. Containing medical-grade 6% CBD oil with less than 0.2% THC, Green Cuisine CBD Oil Drops are completely legal in the UK and the EU.
Please consult with a health practitioner prior to commencing any sort of treatment protocol with CBD oil.
For more information on our organic CBD products that can help with cancer, please click here.
