In recent years, cannabis has proven to be quite an effective treatment tool for a plethora of different symptoms. People suffering from a variety of illnesses, including cancer, have found relief by using medical marijuana. Patients that have been diagnosed with cancer are typically prime candidates for the drug. Cannabis improves cancer treatment in a number of ways, but here are the top 10!
1. Pain Relief
One of the most common symptoms of cancer and cancer treatment is bone and nerve pain. This pain can be so severe that it can become debilitating. Cannabis has the ability to relieve these symptoms, much like prescription drugs can, but without the negative side effects. It accomplishes this by blocking the pain signals to the brain.
2. Reduces Nausea & Vomiting
Chemotherapy and radiation are especially tough on the body. One of the many side effects that this treatment causes is nausea and vomiting. Cannabis contains a high concentration of antiemetic properties, which are what make it so effective. Marijuana has helped thousands of people, so much so, that pharmaceutical companies created a synthetic medication that they could legally sell to cancer patients.
3. Stimulates Appetite
Along with treating nausea and vomiting, cannabis has also been quite effective at stimulating the appetite. Many cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy & radiation struggle with malnutrition. Marijuana triggers the release of the hunger hormone, ghrelin and even makes the idea of eating more appealing!
4. Soothes Rash & Itching
Cannabinoids are a component of the cannabis leaf that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. This is particularly helpful in treating rashes and itchiness that cancer treatment often causes. In order to treat these specific symptoms, patients can consume cannabinoids orally, through inhalation and even topically.
5. Promotes Sleep
This is one of the most popular reasons that people choose to use marijuana. Indica strains tend to promote drowsiness. Even further, THC strains can help a person fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Some studies show that these strains will even keep you in a deeper sleep, helping the body recover and heal.
6. Fights Fatigue
It’s no secret that cancer & cancer treatment can make a person feel lethargic and exhausted. While some strains are great for those struggling with insomnia, other strains, like Sativas, are great for increasing energy. These strains, which are typically higher in CBD, act similar to a cup of coffee.
7. Boosts Positivity & Mood
Marijuana is specifically known for its ability to boost mood and promote feelings of positivity and euphoria. These feelings are commonly brought on by THC, however, CBD has also been shown to release serotonin (feel good chemical).
8. Reduces Gastrointestinal Inflammation
Many cancer patients experience bouts of diarrhea and constipation. This can be caused by either the treatment itself or even the prescribed medications. Cannabis has the ability to decrease inflammation in the gut and intestines which is a primary cause of the gastrointestinal issues.
9. Increases Libido
While cancer patients undergoing treatment may not be interested in sex, marijuana does contain aphrodisiacs. Cannabis eases pain, relaxes the muscles and decreases anxiety, in effect making it easier for the patient to ‘get in the mood’ to maintain and enjoy their intimate relationships.
10. Slows Tumor Growth
There is evidence that suggests THC and CBD have the ability to slow the spread of, and even kill, cancer cells all together. The anti-cancer properties in the cannabis leaf starve off the formation of blood vessels in tumors, essentially halting growth.
Are you a Florida resident that is also a cancer patient? Are you in need of relief from any of these symptoms? Schedule your free consultation, today! Call us at (786) 224-4005, schedule online or stop in to one of our 12 Florida locations.