Does CBD help with benign tumours?

Benign tumours, though non-cancerous, are a significant health concern.

These abnormal growths can occur in various parts of the body and often require medical attention. With the growing interest in alternative therapeutic approaches, cannabinoids, including CBD (cannabidiol), have emerged as a potential avenue for managing benign tumours.

Key Takeaways

• Limited Research: Research specifically focusing on the use of CBD for adenomas is limited, and there is a lack of specific studies investigating CBD’s effects on these types of tumours.
• Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Tumour Effects: Preclinical studies have shown promising anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour effects of CBD, indicating its potential to inhibit the growth and proliferation of tumour cells.
• Dosage and Administration: Determining the suitable dosage and route of administration is crucial; consultation with a healthcare professional experienced in cannabinoid therapies is recommended.
• Medication Interactions: CBD may interact with other medications, affecting their metabolism and potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Legal and Regulatory Considerations: While CBD products are legal if they contain a maximum of 0.2% THC, staying informed about the latest legal and regulatory guidelines is essential for safe use.

Understanding CBD

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in cannabis plants. It is one of the many cannabinoids present in the plant, but unlike THC, it does not produce psychoactive effects. 

CBD is renowned for its potential therapeutic properties, encompassing anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and neuroprotective effects. These beneficial effects stem from CBD’s interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This plays a pivotal role in regulating diverse physiological processes, including pain perception, mood regulation and immune response.

UK CBD for benign tumours

In the UK, most CBD products are derived from hemp. This is because hemp typically contains little to no THC. As a result, using hemp-derived CBD makes it fairly easy to ensure that CBD products sold in the UK contain a maximum of 0.2% THC. This is the legally-mandated limit for over-the-counter (OTC) CBD products.

CBD products that are only available on prescription, may be derived from cannabis. This would typically be to leverage the benefits of a wider cannabinoid profile.

Both OTC and prescription CBD products are available in various forms. These include vaping fluids, oils, capsules, tinctures, edibles, topicals and even infused beverages. All products offered by reputable vendors can be assumed to be safe. The quality of CBD products can, however, vary widely. This is why it’s usually best to go to specialist retailers rather than general health stores.

Current research on CBD and benign tumours

Scientific research on the potential effects of CBD on benign tumours is still in its early stages, but there is growing interest in exploring its therapeutic potential. While most studies have focused on CBD’s potential in cancer treatment, there is emerging evidence suggesting that it may also have beneficial effects on benign tumours.

Types of benign tumours where CBD is studied

Preliminary studies have shown promising results regarding the anti-tumour properties of CBD. It has been found to inhibit the growth and proliferation of various types of benign tumours in preclinical models. Additionally, CBD has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects, which could be beneficial in managing the inflammation often associated with benign tumours.

Fibroids

As uterine growths, fibroids can cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain and reproductive complications. CBD, with its anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties, has garnered interest as a potential therapeutic option for fibroid treatment.

For example, in one study, researchers examined the effects of CBD on human uterine leiomyoma (fibroid) cells. The findings suggested that CBD inhibited cell proliferation, induced apoptosis (programmed cell death) and suppressed the expression of genes associated with fibroid growth. These results indicate that CBD may have the potential to reduce fibroid size and alleviate associated symptoms.

Additionally, CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties are of particular interest in fibroid management. Inflammation plays a role in fibroid growth and reducing inflammation could help mitigate symptoms. CBD has been found to modulate inflammatory responses by interacting with cannabinoid receptors and other non-cannabinoid receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system.

Lipomas

Lipomas are soft lumps that develop within the body’s adipose (fatty) tissue. They tend to appear on the upper body but can also appear on the thighs. Lipomas do not often need medical intervention. Sometimes, however, they can become uncomfortable and/or interfere with normal bodily function. They can also be highly visible. In these instances, medical intervention may be required (or at least recommended).

CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties could potentially help reduce inflammation associated with lipomas. Chronic inflammation in the surrounding tissues may contribute to the growth and persistence of lipomas. By reducing inflammation, CBD might potentially alleviate symptoms or slow down lipoma growth.

Meningiomas

Meningiomas are growths that develop from the meninges, the protective membranes enveloping the brain and spinal cord. They are generally characterised by slow growth and are primarily non-cancerous, although in rare instances they can become malignant. The appropriate course of treatment for meningiomas is determined by various factors, including the size and location of the tumour, as well as the symptoms it generates.

Research specifically focused on the use of CBD for treating meningiomas is limited and there is currently a lack of clinical studies investigating CBD’s effects on these tumours. Most of the available research pertains to other types of cancers rather than meningiomas specifically.

That said, preclinical studies have indicated that CBD has potential to be effective against tumours. It has been found to exert anti-proliferative effects, meaning it may inhibit the growth and division of tumour cells. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may also be beneficial in managing inflammation associated with meningiomas.

Adenomas

Adenomas are noncancerous tumours that can originate in different organs such as the liver, thyroid, adrenal glands and colon. They are characterised by the abnormal growth of glandular tissue within these organs. The size and location of adenomas can vary and their impact on health can range from being asymptomatic to causing symptoms based on their specific location and size.

Research specifically focusing on the use of CBD for adenomas is limited and there is currently a lack of specific studies investigating CBD’s effects on these types of tumours. The management of adenomas typically involves monitoring their growth and addressing any associated symptoms. Treatment options may include surgical removal of the adenoma or the use of medications to control hormone levels or prevent complications.

Benefits of CBD for benign tumours

The use of CBD in the treatment of benign tumours is an area of ongoing research and its potential benefits are still being investigated. CBD has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which may have therapeutic implications in managing the inflammation often associated with benign tumours. Furthermore, preclinical studies have shown promising anti-tumour effects of CBD, indicating its potential to inhibit the growth and proliferation of tumour cells. These anti-proliferative properties of CBD show promise in controlling the development and progression of benign tumours. 

When thinking about using CBD for the treatment of benign tumours, it is crucial to consider various factors, including the appropriate dosage, the preferred route of administration and potential interactions with other medications. Determining the suitable dosage of CBD may depend on variables such as the individual’s body weight, the severity of the condition and their response to the treatment. It’s generally recommended to commence with a low dosage and gradually increase it while carefully observing for any adverse effects or changes in symptoms. 

How do you take CBD for benign tumours?

The route of administration is another consideration, as CBD can be taken orally, topically or inhaled. The choice of route depends on the specific tumour type, location and individual preferences. Consulting with a healthcare professional experienced in cannabinoid therapies can provide valuable guidance in determining the most suitable dosage and route of administration.

It’s also important to be aware of potential interactions between CBD and other medications. CBD can affect the metabolism of certain drugs by inhibiting specific enzymes in the liver. This can result in altered drug levels in the bloodstream and potentially affect their effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. Therefore, it is crucial to inform healthcare providers about any medications being taken concurrently with CBD to ensure safe and appropriate use.

What else needs to be considered?

As research on CBD and its effects on benign tumours is still evolving, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional knowledgeable in cannabinoid therapies. They can provide personalised guidance, taking into consideration the specific type of benign tumour, medical history and individual circumstances to determine the potential benefits and risks of incorporating CBD into the treatment regimen.

A healthcare professional (or specialist) vendor may also be able to keep you up-to-date on the legal and regulatory considerations for using CBD as a treatment for benign tumours. As the law currently stands, it is fully legal to buy and use CBD products for any purpose. They must, however, have a maximum of 0.2% THC.

FAQs

What is the difference between benign and malignant tumours?

Benign tumours are noncancerous growths that do not spread to other parts of the body, while malignant tumours are cancerous and have the potential to invade surrounding tissues or metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body.

Can CBD be used as a treatment for all types of benign tumours?

There is currently a lack of specific research on the use of CBD for all types of benign tumours. However, preclinical studies have shown promising results in inhibiting the growth and proliferation of tumour cells, indicating its potential to be effective against various types of benign tumours.

Are there any side effects of using CBD for benign tumours?

Common side effects of using CBD may include dry mouth, fatigue, and changes in appetite or weight. However, these side effects are typically mild and temporary. It is recommended to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it while closely monitoring for any adverse reactions.

CBD and benign tumours in brief

The current state of research on CBD for benign tumour treatment is still evolving. While studies have shown promising results regarding CBD’s potential anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour and anti-proliferative effects, more research is needed to fully understand its therapeutic benefits and establish optimal treatment protocols. 

It’s important to approach CBD treatment for benign tumours with caution, considering factors such as dosage, administration and potential interactions with other medications. 

Consulting with healthcare professionals and staying informed about the latest research developments is crucial for making informed decisions regarding CBD as a potential treatment option. As the scientific understanding of CBD and its applications continues to advance, further studies are expected to shed more light on its effectiveness and safety for the treatment of benign tumours.

Have you, or a loved one, used CBD for the treatment of a benign tumour? We’d love to hear about your experiences and insights in the review section of whichever producer you went with. Here at CBD Ratings, we strive to offer a space for the UK CBD community to share their experiences and knowledge to help others make informed decisions about their health and wellness.