Cannabis Strains For Melanoma Skin Cancer

Cannabis Strains For Melanoma Skin Cancer

STRAINS FOR MELANOMA

Melanoma refers to a cancer of the skin cells.

It can start on any surface on the skin, but melanoma is more likely to begin developing on the legs for women, and on the back and chest for men. Melanoma also commonly starts on the face and the neck. Unlike other kinds of cancer, melanoma is easily detected during its early stages because they manifest as irregular, asymmetrical shapes with uneven borders. They tend to grow bigger over time, and are bigger than your average mole.

When left untreated, melanoma may spread to other organs. Once this occurs, melanoma is known as metastatic melanoma – a form of skin cancer that becomes much more difficult to treat.

Thankfully, studies show that THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), the two primary cannabinoids in cannabis, have beneficial properties when it comes to treating melanoma. One study, which was published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, administered THC and CBD in animal subjects with melanoma. They found that these cannabinoids induced cancer cell death through two processes known as autophagy and apoptosis. Additionally, by activating CB1 and CB2 receptors in the animal subjects, the cannabinoids were effective in inhibiting the growth of malignant cancer cells.

Patients with melanoma can benefit from using cannabis not just when smoked, but when applied topically as well. A famous case is that of Rick Simpson, who cured his basal cell carcinoma, a form of melanoma, by using a concentrated cannabis extract and applying it directly on the affected area.

Here are 5 therapeutic strains for melanoma skin cancer:

Northern Lights is one of the most famous high-THC indica strains known for its medicinal properties. With THC content reaching as much as 21%, Northern Lights is a great choice for making your own Rick Simpson oil at home. Northern Lights is valued for being a potent cannabis strain, and aside from helping to treat cancer, it can also address depression, stress, lack of appetite, and pain. This strain is known for its relaxing, tranquilizing properties – best for medicating in the evenings or at night before bed.

Grape Ape’s THC levels can reach as much as 23%, making it another excellent strain of choice for concocting your own Rick Simpson topical medicine at home. When smoked, Grape Ape produces a distinct grape-like aroma and flavor. Grape Ape is a popular choice among cancer patients especially for its ability to induce relaxation, which helps soothe stress, anxiety, and pain. It is also widely used for treating mood disorders including depression. Use Grape Ape in the evenings to induce sedation and lull you into a good night’s sleep.

Amnesia Haze is a terrific sativa to help you overcome the side effects of chemotherapy. This lemony sativa has uplifting effects and is best used for daytime medication and stress relief. Amnesia Haze has won 2 Cannabis Cup Awards, and it’s no surprise considering its widespread benefits not just for recreational users but for cancer patients as well. Count on Amnesia Haze to provide relief from fatigue as a side effect of chemotherapy, or if you just need some uplifting energy especially if melanoma is causing you anxiety and depression.

Cannatonic is a hybrid well-known for its high CBD content. If you are looking for medicine that won’t get you high, choose Cannatonic. Although a hybrid, Cannatonic takes on more indica-like properties, which means that it will relax and sedate you without a marked psychoactive high. This makes Cannatonic ideal for medicating any time of the day. However, Cannatonic’s high only lasts for a short time but despite that, many cancer patients find this strain’s therapeutic benefits for curing the disease and overcoming chemotherapy invaluable. Cannatonic is also ideal if you need relief from anxiety, depression, stress, and inflammation.

Stephen Hawking Kush is more than a famous genius. This strain has far-reaching medicinal properties that melanoma skin cancer patients will find useful. Stephen Hawking Kush is an indica-dominant strain that is high in CBD. There are three different phenotypes of Stephen Hawking Kush available on the market, each of them producing different effects although what they all have in common is a generally high CBD percentage. If you are lucky enough to find a 1:1 THC:CBD Stephen Hawking strain, this makes for a great daytime medication while the others can produce a great clear-headed feeling and sense of calm.