Cancer can be described as the abnormal growth of cells affecting important parts of the body. At the time of writing this article, there are over 100 different types of cancer affecting vital body organs including the breast, colon, lung, lymphoma, prostate, skin, bones and the blood.

While CBD has been utilised as an important therapeutic agent, many still wonder if there is any possibility it can elicit some positive effects in the prevention, management, and control of cancer either by serving as an alternative treatment or first choice of remedy. Data gathered from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) shows that CBD may serve as a missing link in the treatment of cancer in the world.

A recent review of cannabinoids in cancer care showed an increasing number of preclinical studies indicating the anticancer properties of cannabinoids. Many experiments have shown cannabinoids to inhibit the spread of cancer cells but further human trials are required.

Although some of the data from the research works may need further verification, it is important to always bear in mind that CBD has a vast array of medicinal properties which can come in handy in the treatment and prevention of cancer. Most of the researchers found a promising relationship between cannabis and bladder cancer. They also discovered that the use of CBD oil actively reduced the risk of bladder cancer by 45 percent.

To further determine the activity of CBD on cancerous cells, a group of researchers in 2016, noted the use of CBD oil displays the possibilities of fighting against cancerous cells in the following ways;

Neutralizing the negative effects of free radicals:

The accumulation of free radicals in body cells and muscles can tamper with cellular integrity thus increasing the rate of exposure to carcinogens and supporting the growth of cancerous cells. The interaction of CBD and the receptors of the endocannabinoid system can neutralise the harmful effects of the free radicals thereby maintaining internal homeostasis. The antioxidant effect of CBD has also been widely documented in detoxification and boosting of cellular health and signaling.

Boosting the immune system

An unhealthy immune system can give rise to the spread of cancerous cells without being checked. The anti-inflammatory activities of CBD can come in handy in boosting the production of immune cells, reduction in the expression of chronic inflammation and above all, keeping the body as healthy as possible. CBD can also trigger hormonal balance and cellular health.

Anti Tumor Effects

A few studies in animals and humans have shown some cancer fighting ability in controlled laboratory conditions. A study in mice and rats suggested that cannabinoids may have a protective effect against the development of certain types of tumors. Researchers noted a decrease in tumors and, inhibited tumor growth and tumor sensitivity to cannabinoids. One study showed human breast cancer cells died off with CBD present. These results show good evidence of antitumor properties but the exact mechanism are yet to be isolated.

Neural brain health

CBD can interact with the ECS receptors to boost neural and brain health thus improving the activities of the Central Nervous and cognitive responses like a response to pain, injury, and hunger. CBD can also boost the activities of neurons and the transfer of nerve impulses between cells and the brain. Data gathered from research has also revealed that CBD can promote neurogenesis (production of brain cells) and reducing the rates of exposure to stress and anxiety.

Conclusion

Although there are still several levels of research ongoing to determine the mechanism of action of CBD and cancerous cells and the possible pathways in assisting people with cancer, we believe CBD is a beneficial compound and may come in handy in the treatment of cancer symptoms with little to no side effects.