Cannabis ‘could help stop the spread of cancer cells’ by blocking supply of blood to tumours

CANNABIS could help stop the spread of cancer cells, a study claims.

Researchers say that naturally occurring compounds in the plant can block the blood supply to tumours.

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They reckon phytocannabinoids — the main compounds in cannabis — can stimulate systems in the human body that are responsible for functions of the brain, endocrine and immune tissues.

Scientists at Rostock University Medical Centre in Germany promoted the benefits after a review of more than 100 studies. Previous research has shown cannabis compounds can help lessen the side-effects of anti-cancer therapies, such as nausea and sickness.

Cannabinoids may also stop cancer cells from dividing and invading tissue.

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Studies also indicate they enhance the body’s immune response against the growth and spread of tumours.

Researchers said continuities across the studies showed that cannabis compounds can actively combat cancer cells.

Prof Burkhard Hinz said: “Studies are now urgently needed to investigate the impact of cannabinoids on cancer growth and progression.”