Medical studies have shown that cancer patients who use medical marijuana are likely to experience several benefits, particularly in managing the symptoms and side effects associated with cancer and its treatment. Cancer patients in New York can get a medical marijuana card and speak with our specialists about the benefits of cannabis therapy alongside with cancer chemo treatments.
1. Reduce Pain and Discomfort
- Chronic Pain Relief: Cancer patients often experience chronic pain due to the disease itself or as a result of treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. Medical marijuana, particularly those strains high in THC, has been shown to be effective in reducing pain by interacting with the endocannabinoid system in the body, which plays a role in pain regulation.
- Studies: Research published in journals like The Journal of Pain and The Clinical Journal of Pain suggests that cannabis can be an effective alternative or supplement to traditional pain medications, such as opioids, for managing cancer-related pain.
2. Alleviate Nausea and Vomiting
- Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea: One of the most common and debilitating side effects of chemotherapy is nausea and vomiting. THC has been found to have antiemetic (anti-nausea) properties, which help reduce the frequency and severity of these symptoms.
- Studies: Studies such as those from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) show that THC-based medications, like dronabinol (Marinol), have been FDA-approved for nausea relief in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
3. Improve Appetite and Prevent Weight Loss
- Appetite Stimulation: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy often result in loss of appetite, leading to weight loss and malnutrition. THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, has appetite-stimulating effects, often referred to as the “munchies.”
- Studies: Research has shown that cannabinoids can help increase appetite and promote weight gain in cancer patients. The American Cancer Society reports that medical marijuana can help cancer patients maintain a healthier body weight, which is crucial for recovery.
4. Improve Sleep Quality
- Sleep Disorders: Cancer patients, particularly those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, often experience disrupted sleep due to pain, nausea, anxiety, or other symptoms.
- Studies: Medical marijuana, especially strains containing both CBD (non-psychoactive) and THC, has been shown to help improve sleep quality by reducing pain, anxiety, and stress. Cannabis can also help patients fall asleep and stay asleep longer.
5. Reduce Anxiety and Depression
- Mental Health Support: Cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient’s mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. CBD, in particular, has been found to have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and antidepressant
- Studies: Research published in journals like Neurotherapeutics indicates that CBD may help cancer patients manage anxiety and depression without the side effects of traditional medications.
6. Improve Quality of Life
- Overall Well-Being: Cancer patients often experience a decline in overall quality of life due to symptoms, side effects, and emotional distress. Studies suggest that medical marijuana can improve overall well-being by alleviating physical discomfort, improving mood, and enhancing appetite and sleep.
- Studies: A study in Supportive Care in Cancer found that cancer patients who used medical marijuana reported improved quality of life due to symptom relief, reduced side effects, and better emotional well-being.
7. Reduce Inflammation
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Inflammation is a common issue in cancer and its treatment, and it can worsen pain and discomfort. Both CBD and THC have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which may help manage these symptoms.
- Studies: Research published in journals like Frontiers in Pharmacology suggests that cannabinoids can reduce tumor-related inflammation and help manage pain related to swelling or irritation.
8. Support in Palliative and End-of-Life Care
- Palliative Care: For patients in the final stages of cancer, medical marijuana may provide comfort by reducing pain, anxiety, and nausea, improving appetite, and allowing for more restful sleep.
- Studies: Palliative care research shows that cannabinoids can be a beneficial component of end-of-life care, improving patient comfort and enhancing the quality of the final stages of life.
Natural Green Healing medical marijuana has shown significant potential in helping cancer patients manage pain, nausea, loss of appetite, anxiety, and other side effects of cancer and its treatments. While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and optimal use of medical marijuana in cancer care, the existing studies provide a compelling case for its use as a complementary treatment for symptom management. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting medical marijuana treatment to ensure it is appropriate for your specific needs and health condition.
