As per the findings of a new study, conducted by the researchers from a University of Alberta, it has been unveiled that an active ingredient present in cannabis can give a new ‘high’ to the taste buds of chronic cancer patients, who otherwise report for a decreased appetite.

The study enrolled 21 people, who were all in the advanced stages of any type of cancer, except brain cancer. Of these, 11 were placed on the dosage of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, and the rest were put on placebo.

The dosage was assigned to the members of the trial group over the period of 18 days, to be taken twice a day. A survey focusing on taste and smell a preference of participants was also carried out before the onset of the therapy.

Surprisingly as many as 73% of THC group doted for ascended food enjoyment while 64% of them reported for significant improvements in appetite.

On the other hand, just 30% from placebo group said that their enjoyment of food was increased. Nearly 50% of them reported for descended appetite with 20% showing no changes at all.

The researchers said: "Our findings are important as there is no acceptedtreatment for chemosensory alterations experienced by cancer patients. THCtreatment may hold multiple clinical benefits for cancer patients, beyond its indication as a treatment for nausea and its effects on appetite”.

(Source)