Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, accounting for over 127,000 deaths annually.

Known for its therapeutic properties, particularly in easing anxiety and reducing inflammation, CBD oil now gains attention for its potential role in hindering lung cancer cell growth. But the pressing question remains: How does CBD oil stop lung cancer cell growth, and is there a specific dosage required to achieve this effect?

Join us as we explore what the current research has to say about CBD oil as a treatment for lung cancer.

CBD is a type of non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis plants, meaning it won’t be sending you on any kind of ‘high’ trip. CBD can be extracted either from hemp or non-hemp plants – where hemp plants are classified as any part of the Cannabis sativa plant containing less than 0.3% of the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

CBD oil is generally marketed as a concentrated extract and is available in various forms, including oils, edibles, topicals, extracts, and more. The extraction process typically involves carbon dioxide under high pressure to isolate cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant components.

For producing CBD oil, the extraction often uses high-grain alcohol, followed by a refinement process to ensure a pure and concentrated form of CBD. This concentrate is tested for quality and potency and blended with carrier oils such as hemp seed or coconut oil to create the final product.

CBD products are diverse and can include oils, edibles, topicals, and extracts. Start with a low dose to see how your body responds, then adjust as necessary.

Methods of Use Include:

Sublingual: Place a few drops of CBD oil under your tongue for quick absorption. If the taste is too potent, some find mixing it with a beverage, like tea, can help mask the flavor.

Ingestion: You can also add CBD oil to your meals. It pairs well with fatty foods, which can enhance absorption. Simply add the oil to your dish of choice.

Topical applications: For targeted relief, apply CBD oil-based products such as creams, lotions, or gels directly to the skin.

Vaping: Although some opt for vaping CBD oil, it’s advised against for those with lung conditions due to potential irritation and unresolved questions about long-term effects.

When choosing CBD oil, select from a reputable source with product information listed on the packaging, such as THC to CBD ratios. This ensures you’re informed about what you’re using and can trust the quality of the product.

The question of CBD oil’s effectiveness in lung cancer treatment remains open, with definitive conclusions hampered by the lack of human clinical trials. However, emerging research provides intriguing glimpses into CBD’s potential role in lung cancer therapy, setting the stage for more comprehensive studies.

A notable 2019 case study shed light on an 81-year-old man’s decision to choose CBD oil over conventional cancer treatments. Starting with a daily regimen of two drops (0.06mL; 1.32mg), he eventually increased his dosage to nine drops (0.3mL; 6mg). Within just a month, there was a significant shrinkage in his lung tumor.

Following this, BMJ Case Reports published a case study in 2021 about a woman in her 80s who, after opting out of traditional lung cancer treatment, began self-administering CBD oil two to three times daily. Her proactive approach led to a 76% decrease in tumor size over 2.5 years.

Digging deeper, studies from the National Library of Medicine suggest CBD’s capacity to initiate cell death in human lung cancer cells, suggesting a potential therapeutic benefit.

These personal stories are encouraging, yet the complete picture will emerge from detailed clinical trials, which are yet to occur. More elaborate scientific research will help clarify CBD’s effectiveness against lung cancer.

If derived from industrial hemp, which by law can only contain less than 0.3% of THC, then CBD oil is legal.

The 2018 Farm Bill removed industrial hemp from the Controlled Substances List as a Schedule I drug, legalizing it federally. However, state laws around selling and consuming CBD products can vary. Therefore, staying informed about the regulations in your state is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid any legal issues.

While CBD has its perks, there are various side effects one may encounter with its use.

Potential side effects from CBD oil usage may include:

• Reduced alertness, such as drowsiness or sedation
• Mood alterations, including irritability and agitation
• Loss of appetite
• Gastrointestinal discomfort, like diarrhea
• Possible interactions with medications
• Accidents related to sedation or drowsiness
• Adverse effects on male fertility
• Dryness of the mouth
• Decreased blood pressure, leading to lightheadedness
• Risk of liver damage when using high-dose prescription CBD
• General fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting

It’s key to remember that despite the promising anecdotes and early research, CBD is not currently approved as a treatment for lung cancer or any other medical condition by regulatory bodies like the FDA.

Staying informed and consulting with healthcare professionals is essential for making safe and informed decisions. Here’s to hoping future studies illuminate more about CBD’s potential, guiding us toward new avenues of hope and healing.