A new study at St. George’s University of London found out that cannabis extracts, combined with radiation therapy, can shrink brain tumors.
There are 85 cannabinoids that are present in a cannabis plant. Of those, two were tested in the study to treat brain cancer tumors: cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
A team of researchers treated brain tumors in mice in different ways. A group of mice were not treated at all, while some were given radiation only, cannabinoids only, and radiation and cannabinoids at the same time, Belfast Telegraphreports.
The results of the study showed that the growth of brain cancer tumors in mice who received a combination of radiation and cannabinoids were extremely slowed down. Dr. Wai Liu, lead researcher on the project was excited about the outcome.
Brain cancer is reported to be one of the most difficult types of cancer to treat, and it is the cause of death for 5,200 people every year. Five years after the diagnosis, patients only have 10 percent chance of survival.
The American Brain Tumor Association also says that brain tumors are also one of the leading causes of death among people under the age of 20.
Dr. Liu said that the benefits of cannabinoids have already been known, but its effects combined with radiation is something new to explore. He said that the results of the study prove to be promising for patients who are suffering from brain cancer.
According to Psych Central, Dr. Liu and his research team are now discussing and working on the possibility of using the said cannabinoids (THC and CBD) combined with radiation in a human clinical trial to see if it yields the same results.
Cannabis Extracts Help Slow Down Growth Of Brain Cancer Tumors
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