If you have cancer, you may be qualified to get a medical marijuana card in your state. All it takes is an appointment with a marijuana doctor who can approve your condition. Once you have your card, you can take advantage of the many benefits cancer patients are finding for their debilitating symptoms.
But a visit to a dispensary could leave you confused. There are many cannabis strains to choose from, and you may be wondering which one is right for you. Read on to find out how certain strains can target the cancer symptoms you struggle with.
There are more than 100 forms of cancer, and each type produces its own set of side effects that vary in severity. However, there are common symptoms that many patients exhibit.
As the medical marijuana industry grows, cultivators are producing strains that can pinpoint specific symptoms. As these symptoms are alleviated, you’ll be able to live a happier and healthier life.
The most common use for cannabis medications is as an analgesic (pain reliever). Patients with cancer sometimes face excruciating pain. Medical marijuana contains CBD and THC, two cannabinoid compounds in cannabis that act as natural pain reducers. These compounds work together to bring incredible relief, even to patients with nerve pain.
This symptom can keep cancer patients from living their lives to the fullest. Medical marijuana is proven to curb feelings of nausea and keep patients from vomiting. Whether it’s caused by chemo or the disease itself, cannabis can help. The presence of THC in a strain has been shown effective to treat this side effect.
If left untreated, cancer can lead to cachexia, or wasting illness. Cancer patients undergoing treatments find it hard to eat. Medical marijuana helps kick your appetite into gear so you can keep your strength up. Usually, indica strains high in THC are best for this.
Because of the nature of cancer, patients often struggle with depression. Severe mood changes are also a side effect of some medications. Medical marijuana helps improve a patient’s outlook and boost mood and energy. The pungent oil — or terpene — limonene is known to help depression.
Cancer patients need to feel well-rested and revitalized to fight the disease. Whether you need a good night’s sleep or a little boost to make it through the day, medical marijuana can help.
Before you try a strain, we recommend speaking with a marijuana doctor or a budtender at your dispensary to make sure it’s the right one for you.