Hi, my Mum is due to start chemotherapy for Breast Cancer and I wondered what your thoughts are on Cannabis Oil. I have heard many stories of people with cancer taken the oil and it helps with the side effects of treatment and in some cases shrink the tumour. Thanks.
Hello Ghreen Onedc6f37
Thank you for coming to talk to us here at Macmillan Cancer Support. My name is Rae and I am a Cancer Information Nurse Specialist.
It is good to hear that Mum is due to start her chemotherapy for breast cancer.
Many people do want to use complementary therapies alongside conventional treatment for breast cancer. People can use complementary therapies to boost their physical or emotional wellbeing, and to relieve symptoms or side effects of treatments.
There are different types of oil. CBD oil comes from the flowers of the cannabis plant and does not contain the psychoactive substance delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Cannabis oil comes from the flowers, leaves and stalks of the cannabis plant and often contains high levels of the psychoactive ingredient THC. Cannabis oil is illegal in the UK.
We have information about cannabis oil and cancer. There is further information about cannabis use.
If your Mum wishes to use CBD oil it is very important that she speaks to her breast cancer team. There may be interactions between CBD oil and the chemotherapy she is due to take. Research has found some positive effects from cannabinoids, but it has also found that cannabinoids can also harm the body and in some situations even encourage cancer cells to grow.
Please let your Mum know that she can speak to us directly if she wishes to receive further information and support. And you can also call if you wish to talk about the above information or have any further questions. Our number on the Macmillan Support Line is 0808 808 00 00.
We have information about supporting someone which you may find helpful.
Take care.
Warmest wishes,
Rae
Ref: RH/RC
