Cannabis and COVID-19
We have all been grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, and researchers are on the hunt for new ways to tackle the virus. A recent study conducted at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, Canada has caught our attention, suggesting that Cannabidiol (CBD), a compound from the cannabis plant, might have some promising antiviral effects against the virus causing COVID-19.
CBD as a Potential Antiviral Agent:
The virus behind COVID-19, called SARS-CoV-2, enters our cells through a specific doorway known as the ACE2 receptor. Once inside, it starts making copies of itself, leading to the illness we know too well. The study explored how CBD might stop the virus from making more copies of itself. They tested this in human lung cells and found that CBD could significantly slow down the virus without harming our cells. What’s more, CBD showed effectiveness against similar viruses.
A Powerful Anti-inflammatory:
Additionally, the study hints that CBD could help control the body’s strong reactions to COVID-19 by calming down inflammation. It might do this by reducing certain substances that trigger excessive immune responses. This discovery suggests that CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties could be useful in handling the body’s response to the virus. It’s an interesting finding that suggests CBD might have a role in supporting our bodies during a COVID-19 infection.
CBD Stands Out:
Interestingly, among the various compounds found in cannabis, CBD was the star player in fighting the virus. Among the cannabinoids found in Cannabis sativa, only CBD exhibits potent antiviral activity. THC, cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabichromene (CBC), and cannabigerol (CBG) showed limited or no antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2.
CBD on the Menu:
Don’t fire up that doobie just yet! CBD changes into different forms in our bodies when it is smoked or eaten and one of these forms turned out to be a potent weapon against the virus. CBD undergoes rapid metabolism in the liver when it is eaten, leading to two main metabolites, 7-carboxy-cannabidiol (7-COOH-CBD) and 7-hydroxy-cannabidiol (7-OH-CBD). Notably, 7-OH-CBD effectively inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication. The study was conducted in vitro with cannabis extracts and it details how CBD interferes with the virus’s entry into our cells and its ability to make more copies.
Third Party Tested
Does It Work in Real Life?
To see if these findings matched up with what’s happening in the real world, researchers looked at data from people tested for COVID-19. It turns out that those who used CBD, especially specific FDA-approved forms, had a lower chance of testing positive for the virus. Additional research published in 2022 found that cannabis users who contracted COVID-19 had better outcomes and lower mortality rates compared to non-cannabis users. Furthermore, researchers have noted that cannabinoids show promise in treating symptoms associated with post acute long COVID-19.
What’s Next?
Current research suggests that CBD could be a powerful player against the virus causing COVID-19. While this study brings hope, there’s still a lot to figure out. The researchers stress the need for more detailed studies and clinical trials to be sure CBD can help prevent or treat COVID-19. However, the evidence is showing that cannabis is a noteworthy natural medicine created by Mother Nature.
