Medical Cannabis use has been increasing in the last few years. The stigma of the “hippies and potheads” stereotype is wearing off. More and more states are legalizing cannabis use. Soon, cannabis will be federally approved. Until then, many people are seeking help from this plant to deal with anxiety, chronic pain, autoimmune conditions, insomnia, PTSD, chemotherapy side effects nausea and vomiting and many more symptoms. Further studies have found that cannabis is effective in relieving some of the symptoms of HIV/AIDS, cancer, glaucoma, and multiple sclerosis (NCSL 2021). As a certified cannabis nurse, I am equipped to assist you with your questions and use of cannabis for medical purposes.
States with medical marijuana laws generally have some form of patient registry, which may provide some protection against arrest for possession up to a certain amount of marijuana for personal medicinal use. I am able to assist you with this registration process and point you in the right direction to enroll in a medical marijuana program (MMP). Medical marijuana growers or dispensaries are often called “caregivers” and may be allowed a certain number of plants or products per patient. This issue may also be regulated on a local level, in addition to any state regulation.
Medical cannabis in cancer care should be viewed in a holistic realm that integrates many therapies. Holism provides the body its optimum opportunity to heal. Nutrition, simple exercise such as walking, self-care and self-nurturing, minimizing toxic exposures, including toxic relationships and managing stress are all part of holistic healing. Spiritual well-being and medical cannabis are all part of a holistic approach to treating cancer.
Medical cannabis should be approached realistically and individually between the client and medical cannabis expert.
- For symptom management: Lower doses of cannabinoids are often enough to help with nausea, pain, sleep, appetite, and overall quality of life during cancer treatments.
- For anticancer effects: Some individuals pursue higher-dose regimens that include THC. While there are powerful stories of success, these are anecdotal, and what works for one person may not work for another.
- Safety matters: Medical cannabis is generally considered safe to use alongside chemotherapy and radiation, though there are always exceptions, such as some immunotherapies and hormone-sensitive cancers. Always involve your oncology team in the conversation (realmofcaring.org). See articles below.
Angiogenesis: What is it and how does it link to cannabis?
Empowering you with the knowledge and support to safely incorporate medical cannabis into your wellness routine, for a healthier, more peaceful life.