Cervical Cancer Treatment: Cannabis Triggers Cancer ‘Suicide’
Women may soon use marijuana for cervical cancer treatment. New study suggests the drug contains a chemical compound that could encourage cancer cells to kill themselves.
Researchers at North-West University in South Africa found marijuana has anti-carcinogenic properties potentially effective for cervical cancer treatment. They found cannabidiol (CBD) triggered the process called apoptosis or cell death on cancer cells.
Cervical cancer remains a widespread threat to women. The researchers said it’s currently the “most lethal cancer for black women” and the world needs an effective treatment.
Previous studies already showed cannabis can help treat symptoms of cancer and the effects of chemotherapy. And some found the drug can even treat cancer.
Medical Cannabis & Its Potential As Cervical Cancer Treatment
One study shows cannabis reduced inflammation in the body. Another research suggests it has anti-cancer effects that prevent tumor growth.
One research team also found cannabis smoke has anti-cancer effects. A study in Switzerland suggests cannabinoids can soon lead development of “novel potent anticancer drugs” because of the various health benefits they offer.
In addition, French researchers discovered marijuana smoking was safer than cigarettes. Their study shows the drug did not increase risks of lung or colorectal cancer, reports Motherboard.
To date, doctors offer medical cannabis in capsules, tinctures, vaporizable oils, and other non-smokeable products. If health authorities approve the drug as a cervical cancer treatment, scientists are yet to decide in what form the drug should be taken as it could be in whole plant or cannabinoid therapy.
However, researchers of the new study noted more studies are needed to verify the potential of cannabis as a cervical cancer treatment. The team published the study in the BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
