Thailand relies on 4 varieties of cannabis to fight cancer

Recent scientific studies conducted by the Plant Research Institute of the Department of Medical Sciences, attached to the Thai Ministry of Health, show that four Thai cannabis strains may be effective in preventing the cells of several types of cancer from multiplying. Tests were carried out on laboratory-grown breast, kidney, lung, colorectal, brain and pancreatic cancer cells, among others.

«These cannabis species are Hang Sua Sakon Nakhon TT1, Tanao Sri Kan Khao WA1, Tanao Sri Kan Daeng RD1, and Hang Karok Phu Phan ST1», said Dr. Supphakit Siriluck, General Manager of the department. «They are rich in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which can be extracted using a supercritical fluid extraction method.»

«Experiments have shown that the THC and CBD collected from these cannabis varieties can effectively stop the development of cancer cells of different types grown in the laboratory, and can also help repair lesions on laboratory-grown lung cells,» he added. «The toxicological experiment also revealed that cannabis extracts do not cause mutagenicity in bacteria. However, they do have the potential to become toxic to laboratory-grown kidney cells, liver cells and lung cells, in descending order.»

Supphakit added that these results were published in the Department's Medical Journal to expose the medical quality of Thai cannabis while showing the possibility of toxicity in specific organ cells.

«The department will continue animal experiments, then move on to clinical trials to ensure that cannabis extracts can be used safely in cancer patients,» he added.