Cannabis: The Reluctant Anti-cancer Agent

Cannabis is known for its pharmacological properties for centuries. It got recognized as a medicine only in the nineteenth century. Still it is used in several parts of the world, like the Middle east, Southern Africa and Asia. A genus of three species (sativa, indica, and ruderalis), Cannabis has an old history of cultivation and use for physical and mental disorders and as a recreational drug. In the 20^th century it got banned in many countries of the world.

With the ever growing research, there has been a paradigm shift in the perception about Cannabis, mainly because of its anti-cancer properties. But still the authorities are very much reluctant in using it as a drug. Only recently (August 2015), has the US government admitted that Cannabis is effective against cancer, but the FDA is yet to approve it as a medicine. The female plant is composed of its active compounds, known as cannabinoids, obtained in the form of hemp oil, marijuana, and resin. Extracts and the hemp oil have been effectively utilized in the fight against cancer.

Mode of Action-Effects and Side effects

Cannabis is believed to block the blood vessels which provide the blood to the tumor cells, thus helping in killing them. Studies have shown that it is very selective and does not affect normal cells. The plant has found its application as an analgesic , appetite stimulant, anti-emetic, anti-pyretic and psychoactive agent. Certain side effects (dizziness, clumsiness, intoxication, and sedation)have been associated with Cannabis smoking, a very alarming one is the lung cancer. Several studies conducted on the the issue have proved that Cannabis smoking might increase th risk of lung cancer, but the dilemma is still unresolved as there may be some connection between lung cancer and tobacco smoking. Rest assured that overdose of cannabis has no significant side effects and does not cause death. The facts and statistics make it a very strong candidate for approval from FDA, but only time will tell its fate.

People in some parts of the world are already using the extract and hemp oil for treatment against cancer. There is evident recovery from the disease. The FDA has to think seriously to get Cannabis approved as an anti-cancer agent.

Some Chemical constituents isolated from Cannabis

Cannabinol

Cannabidiol

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

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