There are numerous methods for cancer treatment, and among them are chemotherapy and radiation. The problem is that though the medications can help deal with cancer, they come along with serious side effects. However, there has been advancements in the use of cannabis to treat and manage cancer.
How Does Cannabis Work?
The human body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS) tasked with regulating various biological activities in the body. The cannabinoid receptors in the ECS bind with cannabinoids whenever it is subjected to stimuli or stress. After receiving endocannabinoids, the ECS triggers the release of cortisol, which is the hormone responsible for regulating most body processes.
Cannabis contains cannabinoids that get into our bodies after ingestion. The ECS naturally takes these cannabinoids just like the ones produced by the body. After receiving THC and CBD, the receptors stimulate the release of hormones that can reduce pain, increase appetite, and make you relax, and so on. Anyone who is going through chemotherapy or radiation treatments will appreciate such benefits because nausea, pain, and inflammation are some of the common side effects of cancer treatments.
Though not signed off as the ultimate cure for cancer, cannabis is a safe and natural compound that can help some patients to better manage the dangerous side effects caused by traditional treatments.
Best Strains for specific cancer-related symptoms
People fighting the good fight need a little help to deal with particular side effects affecting them after chemo or radiation therapy. The following strains can help patients to better deal with specific cancer-related symptoms.
- Pain relief strains
Cannabis is an analgesic. Since cancer patients are likely to face excruciating pain in the course of their treatment, cannabis strains containing CBD and THC can work together as a natural pain reliever.
- Harlequin
It’s used during the day because it does not cause tiredness or dizzy feelings. It contains high levels of CBD and, therefore, can be great for treating pain for some.
- Blackberry Kush
The THC heavy indica is potent and well known for its euphoric effects. It can be incredible for some patients having trouble sleeping.
- Critical Mass
Chemo or radiation treatment can cause patients to lose their sense of taste and smell. The potent Critical Mass has both THC and CBD for a buzzing high and alleviation of pain.
- Nausea and vomiting
Cancer treatment side effects can lower the quality of life for patients.
- Super Lemon Haze
Super Lemon Haze is best for those days that you need to get up and go around, but you are not feeling well. This Sativa hybrid can help in dealing with fatigue.
- Blueberry Diesel
It can help settle an upset stomach, and enable you to relax and uplift your mood. Blueberry Diesel is suggested to be an all-round solution for nausea, pain and depression.
- Depression and fatigue
The strong medications can cause severe mood changes in cancer patients, and as such, a boost in mood can help to promote the quality of their lives.
- Blueberry headband
The sweet cannabis strain can help lower anxiety and enables you to forget your troubles for a few hours.
Other Strains that can help in managing the symptoms of cancer are-
- Tom Ford Pink Kush
It is a potent and highly promising cannabis strain that can help deal with symptoms of cancer. The hybrid strain contains concentrated CBD, which is excellent in treating various cancer treatment side effects such as nausea and pain. The low levels of THC give mild euphoria.
- Northern Light
This indica dominant type of cannabis strain is a cross between Thai Sativa and Afghani. The famous strain contains high THC and a rather low CBD and can offer relief after cancer treatment. It can help some to deal with an immense feeling of nausea after cancer treatment.
- Granddaddy purple
Granddaddy Purple is a calming and relaxing cannabis strain. The marijuana indica causes users to be serene; thus, it’s recommendable for cancer patients having trouble getting sleep. It might help increase appetite, which is also an added benefit for cancer patients on treatment because it results in loss of appetite.
- Chocolope
After a day of going through cancer treatment, especially chemotherapy, patients will often lose energy and feel drained. The Chocolope strain is a great way to unwind, uplift, and feel energized. The Sativa cannabis strain can help awaken an exhausted patient. This strain is a combination of Cannalope Haze and Chocolate Thai.
- Charlotte’s Web
This Sativa cannabis strain has deficient THC levels. Charlotte’s Web Cannabis is quite popular in the medical marijuana community. It has the key to help avert a vast array of conditions for some. The powerful blend contains high CBD levels, which explains why it’s said to be a fantastic pain reliever and also used widely to combat seizures.
Conclusion
The above cannabis strains may be what you need to get through the toughest and awful patch of your cancer treatment program. If you or your loved one is going through this tough journey, then the above cannabis strains can help make it a little more bearable for some. Although it’s relatively safe, it’s still highly recommended to consult with an expert and use safe practices under qualified medical supervision.