Microdosing Cannabis for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer may have just found its greatest adversary: small amounts of cannabis pack some serious anticancer properties. 

We shed light on how THC and CBD interact with cancer cells and alleviate chemotherapy side-effects. Research reveals that cannabis “inhibits tumor cell proliferation, induces apoptosis in vitro, and blocks angiogenesis and tumor invasion/metastasis in vivo.” 

Explore the extraordinary benefits of microdosing cannabis and learn how small doses of CBD and THC may be more beneficial than higher doses. Microdosing can help treat a wide range of medical conditions like neuropathic pain, insomnia, inflammation, and chronic stress. 

Try our Bliss Delta 9 gummies, with a balanced ratio of THC and CBD. Every bite is not just a ticket to potential relief, but also a moment of delicious indulgence.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a malignancy that forms in the cells of the breasts, more specifically in mammary gland tissue. The uncontrollable division and mutation of breast cells result in a tumor. 

Like other malignancies, breast cancer can invade the surrounding tissues and spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, leading to the development of additional tumors. The easiest way for cancer cells to do that is through the blood or lymphatic system. 

What is the Lymphatic System?

The lymphatic system is an integral part of the immune system. It consists of lymph nodes, ducts, and organs that transport lymph fluid throughout the body. Lymph fluid typically carries waste material, tissue by-products, and immune cells. Once breast cancer cells reach the lymph nodes, they can travel through the entire lymphatic system and spread to other parts or organs. 

What are the Types of Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer typically forms in milk ducts or lobules (glands that produce milk). However, cancer can also develop in other parts of the breast, like in the cells of blood or lymph vessels or in the connective tissue (phyllodes), although rarely. 

• Invasive ductal carcinoma starts in the milk ducts and spreads by breaking through the duct walls. This is the most common type of breast cancer. 
• Ductal carcinoma in situ. Also called Stage 0 breast cancer, this type of breast cancer is considered “precancerous,” as the cancer cells haven’t spread beyond the milk ducts. This makes ductal carcinoma in situ highly treatable, with a high likelihood of successful outcomes if detected early. 
• Invasive lobular carcinoma. This type of breast cancer starts in the lobules and spreads to the surrounding breast tissue. It accounts for 10–15% of all breast cancers. 
• Lobular carcinoma in situ. Another precancerous condition in which the lobules grow and divide abnormally. 
• Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most difficult to treat. It’s called triple negative because it doesn’t show the three markers typically associated with other types of breast cancer, which makes diagnosis and treatment more challenging. 
• Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). This rare and aggressive type of cancer is caused by obstructive cancer cells in the skin’s lymph vessels. It resembles an infection, with symptoms like redness and swelling but without presence of a distinct lump or mass. IBC spreads rapidly to nearby lymph nodes and can be more challenging to diagnose and treat. 
• Paget’s disease of the breast affects the skin of the nipple and areola. It’s characterized by changes in the appearance of the nipple. Paget's disease of the breast typically indicates an underlying breast cancer, such as ductal carcinoma in situ or invasive breast cancer. 

Breast Cancer Symptoms

Breast cancer can present with any or all of the following signs and symptoms.

• Breast lump. A noticeable mass or lump in the breast or armpit area could be a sign of breast cancer.
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast.
• Changes in the size, shape, or color of the nipple. 
• Peeling, scaling, crusting, or flaking of the skin around the nipple.
• Changes in the skin over the breast, like dimples, puckers, or pulling in. 
• Redness and swelling of the breast.

Breast Cancer Treatments

Breast cancer is typically treated with radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, and hormone therapy. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals make informed decisions about their lifestyle choices, undergo screenings for early detection, and explore the most appropriate approaches to treating breast cancer. 

These conventional treatments have been shown to be efficient; however, they often come with side effects that can be hard on breast cancer patients. Cannabis compounds, like THC and CBD, have been investigated for their potential antitumor properties and wide range of therapeutic applications—especially when taken in small amounts. 

Are you new to microdosing? Here’s everything you need to know about taking low doses of cannabis to boost your health. There’s no better way to microdose than with our low-dose THC edibles. 

Can Cannabis Help Treat Breast Cancer?

According to the British Journal of Cancer, THC and CBD may have the ability to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis and prevent angiogenesis. In fact, researchers have found that: 

• Cannabis compounds could be used as an additional therapy in combination with traditional cancer treatment.
• Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta 9 THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) produce synergistic effects: together, they can enhance the effectiveness of currently used chemotherapeutic agents.
• Cannabinoids could also bolster the immune system and support the body's natural cancer-fighting mechanisms.

Find more details about Delta 9 in our in-depth guide. If you want to learn more about cannabidiol and all its therapeutic potential, our comprehensive analysis of CBD is just what you need. 

Cannabis Prevents Creation of New Blood Vessels in Tumors

Angiogenesis is an important process by which new blood vessels are created. However, when tumors are present in the body, they latch on to these newly-created blood vessels in order to thrive. A 2015 study looked into the anti-angiogenic properties of cannabis and found that cannabinoids may inhibit the attraction of vessel cells, thereby suppressing angiogenesis in tumors. 

Among the diverse mediators of cannabinoids' antitumorigenic action, the tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1, which is released from cancer cells upon cannabinoid treatment, has been implicated as a pivotal factor conferring both anti-invasive properties of cancer cells as well as antiangiogenic capacities of endothelial cells.

The endothelial cells are important because they regulate exchanges between the bloodstream and the surrounding tissues. The study suggests that cannabinoids can directly hinder the angiogenic capacities of endothelial cells by inhibiting their growth, tube formation, and migration. 

According to Honarmand, et. al., “in vivo studies demonstrated that treatment with CBD reduced colon cancer cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and also had anti-metastatic and anti-angiogenesis effects.”

Anti-Proliferative Effects of Cannabis

Cancer cell proliferation is the rapid growth of cancer cells. Unlike normal cells, which have a regulated cell cycle and divide only when they are needed, cancer cells divide uncontrollably. And unlike normal cells, cancer cells grow and spread significantly quicker.

Cannabinoids like THC and CBD have been proven in preclinical research on cell lines and animal models to decrease the development of breast cancer cells and inhibit cancer cell proliferation. According to an article published in the National Library of Medicine, THC “reduces human breast cancer cell proliferation by blocking the progression of the cell cycle and by inducing apoptosis.”

Cannabis Induces Breast Cancer Cell Apoptosis

Other compounds from cannabis plants have also shown anticancer potential. Linalool is a naturally occurring terpene, an aromatic chemical responsible for the flavor and smell of cannabis. A 2014 study showed that linalool may help prevent the growth and proliferation of breast, colorectal, and liver cancer cells. According to the study, “cell cycle analysis also confirmed that linalool and p-coumaric acid can lead to apoptosis.”

Cannabinoids might be helpful in the treatment of different types of breast cancer, including the very challenging triple-negative breast cancer. By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), THC and CBD can play a significant role in inducing cancer cell apoptosis. 

…cannabinoids also have the potential to inhibit cell growth and avoid metastatic development. These effects are typically associated with cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and autophagy, through the involvement of CB1 and CB2 and the modulation of survival pathways. (Almeida, et. al.)

What is the Role of the Endocannabinoid System?

The endocannabinoid system is a complex network of chemical signals and receptors. According to a research study, the ECS “serves pivotal roles in a diverse range of physiological and pathophysiological states, including behavior, pain, schizophrenia, obesity, Alzheimer disease, multiple sclerosis and cardiovascular disease.”

Our bodies produce natural endocannabinoids. Phytocannabinoids that come from cannabis plants interact with our ECS in the same way. They bind to the endocannabinoid receptors and influence many important biochemical changes in the body. By targeting the ECS, cannabinoids seem to slow tumor growth. 

Delta 9 has a similar structure to endocannabinoids, so it binds to the same cannabinoid receptors, mainly CB1 and CB2. This interaction initiates a wide range of cellular responses in our bodies. The iconic "high" associated with THC is produced when sufficient amounts of Delta 9 bind to the CB1 receptors located in the brain.

Low amounts of THC do not have the psychoactive effects that normally occur with some other forms of consumption. That’s why our low-dose gummies are the best way to reap the benefits of cannabis.

Try our low-THC Energy gummies, with only 2.5 mg of Delta 9 THC per gummy. These yummy edibles are paired with a balanced ratio of cannabidiol to promote relaxation and give you that sweet sense of tranquility without overwhelming your senses. 

THC and CBD are two major cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. To gain a deeper understanding of these intriguing compounds, check out our thorough examination comparing THC and CBD.

Cannabis and Chemotherapy-Induced Side Effects

Cannabis is most commonly used to treat chemotherapy-associated side effects. THC and CBD have similar medicinal effects when it comes to alleviating the nasty side effects of cancer treatment. 

Let’s see why the combination of THC and CBD brings greater relief from chemotherapy-induced side effects:

1. Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting are some of the most distressing side effects for cancer patients. Low doses of cannabis can significantly reduce these symptoms. THC interacts with the endocannabinoid system's CB1 receptors to induce antiemetic effects, alleviating feelings of nausea and vomiting.
2. Mental health is often compromised in cancer patients due to the stress of their diagnosis and treatment. Cannabis can help manage anxiety and depression symptoms. CBD is believed to interact with serotonin receptors in the brain to regulate mood. Small doses of cannabis can promote relaxation, improve mood, and reduce anxiety, thus improving the overall mental well-being of patients.
3. THC and CBD have analgesic properties that can help alleviate cancer pain. THC interacts with CB1 receptors to alter pain perception, while CBD may reduce inflammation, a significant contributor to chronic pain. Tomko, et. al. suggested that “the therapeutic use of cannabinoids is currently limited to the treatment of symptoms and pain associated with chemotherapy, while their potential use as cytotoxic drugs in chemotherapy still requires validation in patients.”
4. Many cancer patients struggle with insomnia and poor sleep quality. Low doses of cannabis can help by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, two key components of healthy sleep. 
5. Chemotherapy often leads to a reduced appetite, causing weight loss and weakening the patient’s immune system. THC is a well-known appetite stimulant. By interacting with the CB1 receptors in the brain's hypothalamus, it stimulates the release of the hormone ghrelin, which triggers hunger. Regular, low-dose consumption of cannabis can help increase appetite and promote healthy weight management in cancer patients.

Order our Relax Plus gummies to experience a new dimension of tranquility in your life. These easy-to-dose edibles provide the perfect balance of Delta 9 and CBD, which work together to induce the munchies and promote restful sleep. 

The best way to get the most from THC and CBD is to take both compounds together. Let’s talk about the entourage effect.

THC and CBD in the Entourage Effect

In the entourage effect, cannabis compounds work together to produce increased therapeutic effects. This means that if you take THC and CBD together, CBD improves the effects of THC, and vice versa. 

The effects of both cannabis compounds might seem to be more beneficial in combination than in isolation. 

…CBD displays an entourage effect (the mechanism by which non-psychoactive compounds present in cannabis modulate the overall effects of the plant), and is capable of improving tolerability and perhaps also the safety of THC by reducing the likelihood of psychoactive effects and antagonizing several other adverse effects of THC (sedation, tachycardia, and anxiety). (Vučković, et. al.)

Some people don’t believe that the entourage effect is a real thing, but evidence in its favor is piling up. The best way to experience the synergistic effects of cannabis is with our full spectrum CBD products. They contain all the major and minor cannabinoids that propel each other to greater therapeutic effects.

Most of our Delta 9 gummies produce the entourage effect. We love pairing THC and CBD together and adding a delectable range of flavors. Order our full spectrum edibles and discover the full potential of cannabis packed into low-THC treats. 

Many cancer patients struggle with sleep. Taking low doses of THC and CBD is a great way to improve sleep quality and manage the discomfort that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis. That’s a heck of a good reason to try our Sleep Plus gummies, with 2 mg of THC, 25 mg of CBD, and an extra helping hand of melatonin. 

The combination of melatonin and cannabis in lower concentrations can help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and improve sleep quality. Read more about the effects and benefits of adding melatonin to your everyday routine. 

Is Cannabis Legal?

Microdosing Delta 9 THC is federally legal in the US under specific 2018 Farm Bill stipulations that say that Delta 9 THC edibles are legal if:

• The THC is derived from hemp, not marijuana
• The THC content does not exceed 0.3% by dry weight. 

The Farm Bill removed hemp from the list of controlled substances, legally separating hemp from marijuana. This means that all of our THC edibles and CBD gummies are 100% legal at the federal level because they’re made from organic hemp. 

However, each state chooses independently whether cannabis products containing Delta 9 THC will be legal in that state. For example, you can’t buy our Delta 9 edibles in Idaho and Kansas. Check out our detailed guide to state-by-state THC legality for additional information. 

If you’re looking to buy the best THC edibles in the country, nama CBD is the obvious choice. We care about what goes into our gummies, so we make sure we use only the highest quality ingredients and natural flavors. See where you can buy our amazing gummies. 

Resources

Dariš, B., Verboten, M. T., Knez, E., & Ferk, P. (n.d.). Cannabinoids in cancer treatment: Therapeutic potential and legislation. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.17305/bjbms.2018.3532

Hinz, B., & Ramer, R. (2022, March 11). Cannabinoids as anticancer drugs: current status of preclinical research - British Journal of Cancer. Nature. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41416-022-01727-4

New Insights into Antimetastatic and Antiangiogenic Effects of Cannabinoids. (2014, December 18). ScienceDirect. https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.ircmb.2014.10.005

Honarmand, M., Namazi, F., Mohammadi, A., & Nazifi, S. (2018, August 27). Can cannabidiol inhibit angiogenesis in colon cancer? - Comparative Clinical Pathology. SpringerLink. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00580-018-2810-6

Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol inhibits cell cycle progression in human breast cancer cells through Cdc2 regulation - PubMed. (2006, July 1). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-05-4566

Linalool exhibits cytotoxic effects by activating antitumor immunity - PubMed. (2014, May 22). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules19056694

Almeida, C. F., Teixeira, N., Correia-da-Silva, G., & Amaral, C. (2021, December 28). Cannabinoids in Breast Cancer: Differential Susceptibility According to Subtype. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27010156

Lerner, R., Lutz, B., & Bindila, L. (2013, September 19). Tricks and Tracks in the Identification and Quantification of Endocannabinoids. ELS. https://doi.org/10.1002/9780470015902.a0023407

Tomko, A. M., Whynot, E. G., Ellis, L. D., & Dupré, D. J. (2020, July 21). Anti-Cancer Potential of Cannabinoids, Terpenes, and Flavonoids Present in Cannabis. MDPI. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12071985

Vučković, S., Srebro, D., Vujović, K. S., Vučetić, E., & Prostran, M. (2018, October 15). Cannabinoids and Pain: New Insights From Old Molecules. Frontiers. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2018.01259

Singh, K., Jamshidi, N., Zomer, R., Piva, T. J., & Mantri, N. (2020, August 29). Cannabinoids and Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review of Animal Studies. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21176265

Silvestro, S., Mammana, S., Cavalli, E., Bramanti, P., & Mazzon, E. (2019, April 12). Use of Cannabidiol in the Treatment of Epilepsy: Efficacy and Security in Clinical Trials. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24081459

Koppel, B. S., Brust, J. C., Fife, T., Bronstein, J., Youssof, S., Gronseth, G., & Gloss, D. (n.d.). Systematic review: Efficacy and safety of medical marijuana in selected neurologic disorders: Report of the Guideline Development Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0000000000000363

[Low-dose THC in geriatric and palliative patients] - PubMed. (2022, October 1). PubMed. https://doi.org/10.1007/s15006-022-1856-1

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