What Is CBD Oil? Can It Cure Cancer?

Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is derived from Cannabis, a plant infamous for its psychoactive properties. While it comes in over 700 varieties, including Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica which offer medical benefits, its legalization often stirs controversy. However, CBD oil is legal in most countries and is known to cure certain ailments, particularly mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. It is also associated with treatment of cancer and tumours. In this article, we explore in depth the properties of CBD oil.

What is CBD Oil?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a type of cannabinoid, which is a compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant. CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and then diluting it with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or hemp seed oil. Notably, CBD can also be synthesized artificially in a lab.

Can CBD Treat Cancer?

While there is no research that links CBD oil to cancer treatment, it may help manage certain symptoms associated with cancer and its treatments, such as nausea, vomiting, and pain, according to research published in 2022.

Notably, cannabinoids are proven to suppress cancers and tumours and mitigate the adverse effects of chemotherapy. Recent research further indicates that cannabinoids may have the potential to shrink tumours, though these studies are still in their early stages. Most research has been limited to preclinical studies involving human or mouse cells in lab dishes, and animals such as mice. For example, both synthetic and plant-derived cannabinoids have been shown to inhibit the growth of breast cancer in mice. In these experiments, cannabinoids were injected directly into the area around the tumor. Similar effects have been observed in colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and skin cancer cells.

Researchers have noted that cannabinoids may inhibit cancer cell growth by activating specific molecular switches in tumor cells. However, it is important to note that THC, another compound found in cannabis, has been shown to promote tumor growth under certain conditions in animal models.

Cannabis has been utilized for pain relief since 2900 B.C. The endocannabinoid system, which regulates functions such as pain perception, plays a key role here. Endocannabinoids, produced by the body, interact with cannabinoid receptors to modulate pain. Studies suggest that CBD may alleviate chronic pain by affecting endocannabinoid receptor activity, reducing inflammation, and interacting with neurotransmitters.

CBD oil has shown promise in treating some mental health disorders, sparking interest among those seeking natural treatment options. A 2020 review of literature on CBD and mood disorders found evidence suggesting that CBD could help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD and even psychosis. Certain studies have shown that it could also help people with sleep disorders.

CBD may benefit individuals with neurological disorders. A 2022 study suggested that nabiximols (Sativex), a spray containing both CBD and THC, might reduce pain and muscle spasticity in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Research from 2017 also showed that CBD oil helped reduce seizure activity in children with Dravet syndrome, though it caused some adverse reactions. The FDA has approved Epidiolex, a CBD product, for treating seizures associated with several rare conditions, including tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC).

High blood pressure is linked to increased risks of conditions like stroke, heart attack, and metabolic syndrome. Some research indicates that CBD may positively affect heart health by influencing heart muscle contractions and widening blood vessels.

While CBD is generally considered safe, it may cause side effects such as diarrhea, changes in appetite and weight, and fatigue. Other reported effects include abnormal liver function, drowsiness, sedation, and pneumonia, particularly in childhood epilepsy studies.

CBD can also interact with various medications, so consulting with a healthcare professional about dosing and potential side effects is advisable. Additionally, due to the prevalence of low-quality CBD products, it’s important to choose products that have been third-party tested for quality and purity.