Cannabis has been used in natural medicine for thousands of years. Despite its demonization by the US government, over 3 dozen states and territories have already legalized the use of medicinal cannabis. In this brief video, you’ll discover how cannabis is one of the most powerful tools when it comes to fighting cancer. Did you know that your body naturally produces many of the compounds found in cannabis? This natural system – called the endocannabinoid system – is at the cutting edge of today’s anti-cancer research.
Cannabis has been used in natural medicine for thousands of years, with its medicinal properties recognized as far back as 2800 BC. Ancient civilizations, including those in China and India, documented the use of cannabis for a variety of ailments, including cancer. Emperor Shen Nung’s pharmacopoeia, dating back to 2800 BC, listed cannabis as a treatment for numerous health issues.
Historical Use in Traditional Medicine
In traditional Chinese medicine, cannabis was used to treat pain, inflammation, and other symptoms associated with cancer. Similarly, in ancient India, cannabis was an integral part of Ayurvedic medicine, used to alleviate pain and promote healing. The plant’s psychoactive and therapeutic properties made it a valuable resource for early healers.
Modern Research and Applications
While historical use provides a foundation, modern research has begun to explore the potential of cannabis in cancer treatment. Studies have shown that cannabinoids, the active compounds in cannabis, can induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells, inhibit tumor growth, and reduce inflammation. These findings have sparked interest in the medical community, leading to ongoing clinical trials and research into the efficacy of cannabis-based treatments.
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite its long history and promising research, the use of cannabis in cancer treatment faces several challenges. Legal restrictions and the variability in cannabinoid concentrations have hindered comprehensive studies. However, as attitudes towards cannabis continue to evolve, there is hope for more extensive research and the development of standardized treatments.
Conclusion
Cannabis has a rich history in natural medicine, with its use in cancer treatment dating back thousands of years. As modern science continues to uncover its therapeutic potential, the ancient wisdom of using cannabis for healing may pave the way for innovative cancer treatments.
References
-
Shrivastava, A., Kuzontkoski, P. M., Groopman, J. E., & Prasad, A. (2011). Cannabidiol induces programmed cell death in breast cancer cells by coordinating the cross-talk between apoptosis and autophagy. Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, 10(7), 1161-1172. Link
-
Guzmán, M., Duarte, M. J., Blázquez, C., Ravina, J., Castañeda, M. A., Sánchez, C., … & Velasco, G. (2006). A pilot clinical study of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol in patients with recurrent glioblastoma multiforme. British Journal of Cancer, 95(2), 197-203. Link
-
McAllister, S. D., Murase, R., Christian, R. T., Lau, D., Zielinski, A. J., Allison, J., … & Desprez, P. Y. (2011). Pathways mediating the effects of cannabidiol on the reduction of breast cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, 129(1), 37-47. Link
-
Salazar, M., Carracedo, A., Salanueva, I. J., Hernández-Tiedra, S., Lorente, M., Egia, A., … & Velasco, G. (2009). Cannabinoid action induces autophagy-mediated cell death through stimulation of ER stress in human glioma cells. The Journal of Clinical Investigation, 119(5), 1359-1372. Link
-
Blázquez, C., González-Feria, L., Alvarez, L., Haro, A., Casanova, M. L., & Guzmán, M. (2004). Cannabinoids inhibit the vascular endothelial growth factor pathway in gliomas. Cancer Research, 64(16), 5617-5623. Link
