There are at least 10 good reasons why cancer patients ask for medical cannabis recommendations. While the verdict is still out on whether or not cannabis can treat or cure cancer, there are many ways in which the herb is beneficial for cancer patients.

1. Chronic pain

Chronic pain is among one of the most severe side effects of cancer and cancer treatments. It’s also one of the most common reasons why patients seek out medical cannabis recommendations.

Prescription painkillers are often prescribed to cancer patients to manage their symptoms even though cannabis, which is considered a less-addictive and non-toxic alternative, exists as a potential treatment option.

2. Nausea and vomiting

Chemotherapy and radiation treatments are grueling. Nausea and Vomiting are perhaps two of the most draining side effects of the cancer treatments. Cannabis compounds have been proven so successful that pharmaceutical companies even created synthetic versions to legally sell to patients undergoing chemotherapy.

3. Skin irritations

Feeling itchy? Developing a skin rash? These irritating ailments are common in patients undergoing conventional cancer treatments. The compounds in cannabis, called cannabinoids, are anti-inflammatory agents. This means that they may be helpful for allergic reactions like allergic dermatitis.

4. Appetite and weight management

Aside from pain, nausea, and vomiting, an extreme loss of appetite is a major side effect of chemotherapy drugs. It’s fairly common knowledge that cannabis causes “munchies” stimulating a sudden increase in appetite. Not only does cannabis tap into cell receptor systems that stimulate the release of the primary hunger hormone ghrelin, but it also boosts the pleasure response to food in the brain. This not only makes you more hungry but can also help you get more enjoyment out of eating.

5. Mental health and well-being

Going through times of severe illness can do a number on your mental health. Cannabis is beloved by many for its euphoric and mood stimulating properties.

While the happy and upbeat “high” caused by psychoactive tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is often the most popular choice among cannabis patients with mental health ailments, even non-psychotropic cannabidiol (CBD) is thought to improve mood and promote a positive sense of well-being.

6. Sleep

One of the most famous side effects of cannabis consumption is drowsiness. Certain cannabis cultivars are more likely to cause drowsiness than others. THC has also found that the cannabis compound tends to help people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

7. Digestive distress

Constipation and diarrhea are two possible side effects of cancer treatment. Constipation is often associated with imbalances in the bacterial communities in the intestinal tract. Cannabis compounds can alter the ratio of bacteria in the gut, promoting a more balanced internal ecosystem.

8. Chronic fatigue

While some types of cannabis can make you sleepy, others have stimulating and energetic qualities. Though every different cannabis cultivar is unique, those classified as “sativas” are often thought to provide stimulating effects that can be compared to a morning cup of coffee. These varieties provide mental energy that can make it easier to start the day.

9. Sexual health

It can be extremely difficult for anyone suffering from chronic illness to maintain an active sexual life, whether it’s due to severe pain and fatigue or as a side effect of a medication.

Cannabis can improve sexual health in several different ways. The herb has been used as an aphrodisiac for centuries and many consumers find that it enhances their sexual pleasure.

10. Anti-cancer properties

While cannabis may help nine of the most common symptoms of cancer and cancer treatments, the most remarkable thing about the herb is its anti-cancer properties. THC and CBD have been found to trigger cell death, halt proliferation, and prevent the spread of cancer cells.