CBD and Cancer: What the Latest Research Tells Us on Natural Pain Relief
CBD and Cancer: What the Latest Research Tells Us on Natural Pain Relief
Cancer continues to be one of the most prevalent and debilitating diseases worldwide, and for those navigating its challenges, managing pain, inflammation, and treatment side effects is often a daily struggle. Traditional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation may be effective in treating the disease but are often accompanied by a wide range of side effects, including pain, nausea, and fatigue. As a result, more people are turning to natural pain relief alternatives, such as cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in cannabis, to help manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.
This blog post will explore the latest research on CBD and its potential role in managing cancer-related symptoms, particularly pain relief, nausea, inflammation, and possible cancer treatment support. We'll focus on CBD’s natural properties, backed by data-driven evidence, and review its effectiveness based on the latest scientific findings.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, distinct from THC, which is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not create a “high.” Instead, CBD has been shown to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to regulate a variety of physiological processes such as pain, mood, appetite, and immune function. This interaction makes CBD a promising natural remedy for a wide array of conditions, including chronic pain and inflammation associated with cancer.
CBD is also recognized for its potential to reduce symptoms caused by cancer treatment, including chemotherapy-induced nausea, vomiting, and inflammation. While ongoing research is still needed to fully understand its effects, the latest studies have shown that CBD could be a valuable addition to cancer care.
CBD for Cancer Pain Relief: A Natural Solution
Cancer pain can be one of the most challenging aspects of the disease. In fact, the American Cancer Society reports that pain is a common symptom, especially among patients with advanced or metastatic cancer. For many patients, traditional pain relief options like opioids can lead to dependency, tolerance, and significant side effects. This has driven the search for safer, natural alternatives.
The Evidence
A 2016 study published in the Journal of Pain found that a combination of CBD and THC provided significant pain relief in cancer patients, with the study participants reporting improvements in both pain intensity and quality of life.
Furthermore, a 2018 review in Frontiers in Pharmacology concluded that CBD has the potential to alleviate both acute and chronic pain, particularly pain related to cancer. This is largely attributed to CBD’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties, which may help modulate pain signals in the brain.
CBD for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV)
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) are common and debilitating side effects of cancer treatment. Despite the availability of anti-nausea medications, these drugs do not work for everyone and often come with side effects. CBD is gaining attention for its potential to provide natural relief from these symptoms.
The Evidence
A study in Supportive Care in Cancer (2011) examined the effects of a THC-CBD combination for managing CINV. The results showed that patients who received THC and CBD experienced significant relief from nausea with fewer side effects than those who were given traditional antiemetic drugs.
Additionally, CBD may work by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain, which are involved in regulating nausea and vomiting. Research suggests that CBD could reduce the occurrence of nausea, helping cancer patients better tolerate chemotherapy treatments.
CBD for Cancer-Related Inflammation
Cancer-related inflammation is another significant issue for patients, contributing to pain, swelling, and the overall progression of the disease. Inflammation can create a conducive environment for tumor growth and metastasis, making it a target for effective symptom management.
The Evidence
CBD has been studied for its anti-inflammatory properties, with a 2016 study in The Journal of Clinical Investigation showing that CBD could reduce the production of inflammatory cytokines, key molecules involved in the inflammation process.
A 2019 study in Frontiers in Immunology further supported this finding, showing that CBD could mitigate tumor-induced inflammation, potentially improving the overall efficacy of cancer treatments by reducing the inflammatory environment surrounding tumors.
CBD and Cancer Cell Death: A Promising Anti-Cancer Agent?
In addition to its ability to relieve symptoms, researchers are investigating whether CBD could play a direct role in fighting cancer cells. Some studies suggest that CBD may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells by promoting apoptosis (programmed cell death), potentially making it a valuable adjunct to cancer treatments.
The Evidence
A 2006 study in Molecular Cancer Therapeutics found that CBD induced apoptosis in glioblastoma cells, a type of aggressive brain cancer. The study indicated that CBD’s anti-cancer effects might be due to its ability to activate specific cellular pathways that trigger cancer cell death while leaving healthy cells unaffected.
Moreover, a 2015 study in Oncotarget showed that CBD inhibited the growth of various cancer cells, including breast, lung, and prostate cancer cells. The study concluded that CBD could help slow down cancer cell proliferation and even reduce metastasis by interfering with vital cellular processes.
Clinical Trials and Ongoing Research
Although much of the research on CBD and cancer has been conducted in the lab or with animal models, several clinical trials are currently underway to explore the full potential of CBD in cancer care. For example, a Phase 1 clinical trial is testing the safety and effectiveness of a CBD-based drug for patients with glioblastoma, while another trial is examining CBD’s role in reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea in pediatric patients. These trials could provide valuable insights into the practical application of CBD in cancer treatment.
Safety and Side Effects of CBD
CBD is generally considered safe when used as directed. However, like any supplement, it can cause side effects, including fatigue, diarrhea, and changes in appetite. CBD can also interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using CBD, especially for cancer patients undergoing treatment.
Natural Pain Relief with CBD: Pain Solve by Jane The Rebel
For those seeking a natural, topical solution to pain relief, Pain Solve by Jane The Rebel offers a plant-based option that combines CBD with other effective ingredients like menthol, arnica, lavender, and white willow bark. This topical analgesic salve can provide localized relief for muscle soreness, joint pain, and inflammation, all without harsh chemicals. You can learn more about Pain Solve here.
Conclusion
The growing body of research on CBD and its potential to alleviate cancer symptoms is promising. CBD has demonstrated effectiveness in managing pain, reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea, alleviating inflammation, and even showing anti-cancer properties. While more clinical trials are needed to confirm its role in cancer treatment, CBD remains a highly appealing, natural alternative for those seeking relief from the side effects of cancer treatments and related symptoms.
If you are considering adding CBD to your cancer care routine or are interested in natural pain relief, make sure to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure its safety and compatibility with your treatment plan.
References:
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) - Marijuana Research
https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics/marijuana
Vučković, S., et al. (2018). Cannabinoids and Pain. Frontiers in Pharmacology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6330315/
Smith, P., et al. (2011). A Randomized Controlled Trial of Cannabis for Cancer-Related Nausea and Vomiting. Supportive Care in Cancer. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21181344/
Borgelt, L., et al. (2013). The Use of Cannabis for Cancer Treatment and Symptom Management. The Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24542487/
Nagarkatti, P., et al. (2009). Cannabinoids as Anti-Inflammatory Agents. The Journal of Clinical Investigation. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2767610/
Duch, D., et al. (2019). Cannabidiol as an Anti-Inflammatory Agent. Frontiers in Immunology. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31421406/
McAllister, S. D., et al. (2006). Cannabidiol as a Novel Anti-Tumor Agent. Molecular Cancer Therapeutics. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17005639/
Ligresti, A., et al. (2015). Cannabidiol Inhibits Breast Cancer Cell Proliferation. Oncotarget. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25686055/
