ESPCannabis compounds are already used by some cancer patients to help manage symptoms and treatment side effects. Now researchers are exploring something very different: whether compounds found in cannabis might someday play a role in treating cancer.
A recent laboratory study found promising effects from CBD and THC against ovarian cancer cells. But promising research isn’t the same thing as a proven treatment.
1. CBD AND THC SHOWED ANTI-CANCER ACTIVITY.
Researchers tested CBD and THC separately and together on two types of ovarian cancer cells. Both slowed cancer-cell growth, but the combination produced the strongest effects and reduced the cells’ ability to migrate.
2. THIS WAS A LAB STUDY—NOT A TREATMENT TRIAL.
The experiments were performed on cells, not people. Researchers haven’t established whether the same effects occur in the human body or what doses could be safe and effective.
3. DON’T TRY TO TREAT CANCER YOURSELF WITH CANNABIS.
These findings don’t mean marijuana, CBD oil or other cannabis products can treat or prevent ovarian cancer. Anyone with cancer who uses—or is considering using—cannabis or CBD as a complementary therapy should discuss it with their healthcare team.
