How Can Cannabis and Medicinal Mushrooms Support Breast Cancer Treatment and Care?
During October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, while learning about traditional medical care of breast cancer we can also explore complementary treatments that can support a patient’s healing journey. Alongside surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, integrative approaches—like cannabis and medicinal mushrooms—are supportive options for managing the physical and emotional challenges of breast cancer treatment.
The Role of Cannabis in Cancer Care
Medical cannabis offers potential benefits for those undergoing cancer treatment. Research and patient experiences show that cannabis:
Alleviates pain: Cannabis may help reduce the chronic pain associated with cancer treatments like surgery and chemotherapy.
Relieves nausea and improves appetite: For patients experiencing chemotherapy-induced nausea, cannabis can provide relief while also stimulating appetite, preventing unwanted weight loss.
Reduces anxiety and improves sleep: Cannabinoids like CBD, CBN, CBG, and THC can promote relaxation, improve mood, and help with insomnia, supporting mental and emotional well-being during treatment.
At Green Network Providers, we recommend the use of cannabis as a complementary therapy alongside conventional cancer treatments - not as a replacement. Working with an experienced medical provider ensures the correct use of medical cannabis, considering factors like dosage, delivery method (oils, edibles, or topicals), and potential drug interactions.
Medicinal Mushrooms: An Immune-Boosting Ally
Certain medicinal mushrooms, such as reishi, chaga, and turkey tail, are renowned for their immune-supporting properties and have become popular in integrative cancer care. Medicinal mushrooms:
Enhance the Immune System: Mushrooms contain beta-glucans that help support immune function, a key consideration during cancer treatments that can weaken the body’s defenses.
Are Rich in Antioxidants: Antioxidants can help protect cells from damage while promoting overall wellness.
Support Energy and Stamina: Adaptogenic mushrooms like cordyceps may help reduce the fatigue commonly experienced during cancer treatment.
Like cannabis, mushrooms should be used to complement traditional cancer care and under the supervision of an experienced provider. Green Network Providers offers Plant Medicine Consultations to guide you through the fascinating world of medicinal plants and mushrooms for health and wellness.
Incorporating Reiki for Mind-Body Healing
Along with natural therapies like cannabis and mushrooms, Reiki therapy is another supportive tool that can be integrated into cancer care. Reiki, a form of energy healing, focuses on restoring balance in the body and mind. Reiki helps to:
Reduce stress and anxiety: Many cancer patients experience high levels of emotional stress, and Reiki can provide a sense of calm and relaxation.
Promote emotional well-being: Reiki offers a compassionate, non-invasive way to support mental and emotional resilience during challenging times.
Enhance the healing process: While not a cure, Reiki therapy can complement other treatments by creating a peaceful environment conducive to healing.
You can find practitioners like myself, who are not only experienced in Reiki therapy but also understand the nuances of cannabis use in a medical setting. Integrating these therapies requires careful guidance, which is why working with someone who can manage both traditional and alternative treatments is key.
A Holistic Path to Breast Cancer Care
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to explore holistic ways to support patients. Integrating alternative therapies like cannabis, mushrooms, and Reiki under the care of experienced practitioners can help patients manage side effects, enhance well-being, and foster emotional resilience.
When alternative treatments are combined with conventional care, patients are empowered with more options and a personalized approach to their healing journey.
References:
Abrams, D.I., Guzman, M. (2015). Cannabis in Cancer Care. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 97(6), 575-586.
Bowden, D., Goddard, L., Gruzelier, J. (2010). A randomized controlled single-blind trial of the efficacy of Reiki at benefitting mood and well-being. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 7(2), 189-195.
Gariboldi MB, Marras E, Ferrario N, Vivona V, Prini P, Vignati F, Perletti G. Anti-Cancer Potential of Edible/Medicinal Mushrooms in Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Jun 14;24(12):10120. doi: 10.3390/ijms241210120. PMID: 37373268; PMCID: PMC10299416.
MacCallum, C.A., Russo, E.B. (2018). Practical considerations in medical cannabis administration and dosing. European Journal of Internal Medicine, 49, 12-19.
Standish, L.J., Wenner, C.A., Sweet, E.S., et al. (2008). Trametes versicolor mushroom immune therapy in breast cancer patients with impaired immune responses. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 26(15_suppl), 9598.
Thrane, S., Cohen, S.M. (2014). Effect of Reiki therapy on pain and anxiety in adults: An in-depth literature review of randomized trials with effect size calculations. Pain Management Nursing, 15(4), 897-908.
Wasser, S.P. (2014). Medicinal mushroom science: Current perspectives, advances, evidence, and challenges. Biomedical Journal, 37(6), 345-356.
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