Cervical cancer refers to the development of cancer cells at the narrow neck of the uterus. There are numerous possible causes and risk factors for cervical cancer, particularly among higher-risk women. About 11,500 new instances of cervical cancer are detected, and 4,000 women lose their lives to the disease in the US each year.
Given its prevalence, various treatment methods exist, though researchers continue to seek unexplored treatments. Recent studies suggest that low-dose THC weed gummies may be effective in managing cancer cells.
Key Takeaways:
- Activating the CB1 and CB2 receptors has protective effects against cervical cancer cells.
- THC slowed down the spread of HeLa cervical cancer cells, with the effect varying based on how long it was used and how concentrated it was.
- Microdosing involves administering THC in low doses to achieve therapeutic effects while minimizing psychoactive effects.
Cervical Cancer and Its Cause
Cervical cancer affects cells of the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus that connects to the vagina. This type of cancer develops slowly. Before cancer appears, the cervix cells undergo changes called dysplasia, where abnormal cells start forming in the cervical tissue. If left unchecked, these abnormal cells can develop into cancer and spread deeply into the cervix and surrounding areas.
Cervical cancer starts when healthy cells change their DNA, which contains the instructions for cellular function. These changes cause the cells to multiply rapidly and survive longer than normal cells. This can result in the formation of a tumor.
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus transmitted through sexual contact, causes most cervical cancers. In most cases, HPV does not cause problems, but in some individuals, the virus can cause cellular changes that may lead to cancer.
New Studies on Cervical Cancer and Low THC Cannabis
THC and Its Antitumor Property
A study from the Journal of Gynecologic Oncology examined the sensitivity of cervical carcinoma (CxCa) cells to arachidonyl ethanolamide (AEA), also known as anandamide. AEA interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system by binding to cannabinoid receptors, the same receptors that THC in cannabis targets.
The study found that AEA induced apoptosis in cervical carcinoma cell lines via aberrantly expressed vanilloid receptor-1. When AEA bound to the classical CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, it had a protective effect on cancer cells. The researchers unexpectedly observed strong expression of all three forms of AEA receptors in ex vivo CxCa biopsies.
Antiproliferative Activity
THC caused a time- and -concentration-dependent suppression of HeLa cell invasion through Matrigel, accompanied by increased expression of Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloprotease-1 (TIMP-1). At the lowest concentrations tested, THC reduced invasion by 68.1% compared to vehicle-treated cells.
Pretreating cells with antagonists to CB1 or CB2 receptors, inhibitors of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), or a Transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 (TRPV1) antagonist reversed the stimulation of TIMP-1 expression and suppression of cell invasion.
Knocking down cannabinoid-induced TIMP-1 expression with small interfering RNA (siRNA) reversed the decrease in tumor cell invasiveness elicited by cannabinoids in HeLa, A549, and C33A cells.
Other Impacts of Cannabis
In one study involving 31 women with cervical cancer, 83% reported that cannabis provided relief for their cancer or treatment-related symptoms.
- Lowering opioid use (63%)
- Decreased appetite (41%)
- Insomnia (41%)
- Neuropathy (nerve pain, 41%)
- Anxiety (35%)
- Nausea (29%)
- Joint pain (29%)
- Bone pain (29%)
- Abdominal pain (25%)
- Depression (19%)
Chronic inflammation plays a role in the development of most types of cancer and diseases in general. Cannabinoids are fundamental in immunomodulation (altering the body’s immune response) and maintaining homeostasis (balance). They can induce, amplify, reduce, or prevent inflammation.
Phytocannabinoids, cannabinoids derived from cannabis, can help combat cancer-induced inflammation and instruct cancerous cells to “stop” or undergo apoptosis (self-destruction). Maintaining endocannabinoid system balance may help treat and possibly prevent cancer.
What is Low-Dose THC?
Low-dose THC or microdosing refers to the administration of THC in small quantities to achieve therapeutic effects without causing significant psychoactive effects. This approach is used in medical cannabis treatments to provide the benefits of THC.
Benefits of Low-dose THC
- Allows you to control your dosage. Follow the golden rule: use the smallest effective dose with the least risk, and practice discipline.
- Helps regulate mood, boost creativity, and improve workout sessions
- Helps maintain minimal levels of THC and other cannabis metabolites in the body.
- You can enjoy the same benefits as higher THC doses but at a lower cost.
Dosing with Weed THC Gummies
THC gummies are edible candies infused with THC. They provide a convenient and discreet method of THC consumption. Available in a range of fruity or sweet flavors and various shapes, these options offer an enjoyable option if you do not like the taste of conventional cannabis products. Aside from its multiple options and convenience, gummies provide the following advantages:
Long-Lasting Effects
The effects of gummy edibles may occur anywhere between 30 minutes to 120 minutes after consumption. This delayed onset results from the digestive process, which takes longer for the body to absorb the active compounds than inhalation methods. Once the effects occur, you’ll expect to find relief for about four or more hours.
Manage Unwanted Side Effects
Since cannabis edibles come in predetermined dosages, you can easily gauge the amount you consume. They’re an excellent option when you prefer precise, smaller doses compared to flowers, where it’s more challenging to measure the THC intake through inhalation.
Tips When Considering Cannabis For Cervical Cancer Treatment
- When discussing your treatment plan with your doctor, disclose any cannabis use. A professor of family community medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine emphasizes the importance of open communication.
- Conduct detailed research before mixing cannabis into your regimen. Begin by determining whether medical or recreational marijuana is accessible in your state.
- Be prepared for some trial and error as you explore cannabis usage. Like cancer medications, what works for one may not be effective for another. If the initial type you try doesn’t yield the desired results, consider experimenting with alternative options.
- View cannabis as a supplemental component rather than a cure-all solution. While experts don’t discourage the use of medical marijuana, they caution against substituting proven medical treatments with nontraditional methods.
Gummy Therapy, Bite-Sized Relief
Research on low-dose THC gummies and cannabis for cervical cancer patients is new but promising. They not only help kill cancer cells but also ease inflammation, pain, nausea, and vomiting related to cancer and chemotherapy.
Cannabis gummies are advantageous because they let patients adjust their dosage to match effective levels found in studies. GetLoud Cannabis offers these products, which offer a convenient option for patients seeking therapeutic benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There Significance in the Choice of Cannabis Plant Type When Using Gummies for Inducing Apoptosis in Cervical Cancer Cells?
Both Sativa and Indica strains of cannabis contain THC, so the specific plant type from which your gummies originate doesn’t significantly impact their THC content. Most gummy brands do not specify the cannabis plant type or strain they use. They commonly indicate the total THC content per package.
While some may mention the anticipated effects of the gummies, the impact of low doses of THC does not align with the classic effects associated with higher doses.
How Many Times do you have to Consume Cannabis to Help in Cancer Treatment?
The frequency of your cannabis use depends on the amount you consume. It’s unnecessary to consume large quantities daily, as this can lead to developing a tolerance to cannabis. If you’re practicing microdosing, the frequency can range from daily to every few days or even once a week.
How do I Consume Edible Gummies?
If you purchased a gummy with a low dose, you must consume enough gummies to reach your desired dosage. If you have a gummy with a higher dose, you can split it to reduce the amount consumed.
There are two methods of consuming your gummy: chewing and swallowing or allowing it to dissolve under your tongue. Chewing and swallowing will result in a longer onset time. Sublingual consumption may decrease the onset time and will enable you to experience the benefits of THC more quickly.
