Cannabis is known to treat insomnia by helping patients fall asleep faster and stay asleep. It has also been proven to alleviate fatigue in cancer patients and promote wakefulness. How can one medicine both help patients sleep and fight fatigue? The answer is strain selection.
Here are four things to consider if you’re looking to use cannabis to combat cancer fatigue:
Sativa strains are ideal for alertness
Leafly outlines the best strains to relieve fatigue, and they are mostly either sativa or hybrid. Indicas promote sleepiness and are best for treating insomnia, while sativas deliver a rejuvenating and energetic buzz.
CBD may counteract the sleep-enhancing effects of THC
A 2004 PubMed study concluded that 15 milligrams of pure THC led to sleepiness, while equal parts THC and CBD reduced sleep and promoted wakefulness. This study did not mention the strains used.
Man-made cannabis can combat fatigue
A study conducted in Israel found that synthetic cannabis products, approved in the US, provided relief from fatigue caused by chemotherapy. Fifty-six patients initially reported severe and debilitating fatigue, whereas only five continued to report severe fatigue after taking the cannabis.
Get to know your product before you participate in potentially dangerous activities
While one product might make you feel alert, another might make you feel tired. Use a new product in a safe space before you go out driving or plan anything important.
