The coronavirus pandemic has affected almost every country in the world, impacting economies, livelihoods and mental health.
Back in winter 2020, we saw the launch of the vaccine rollout where multiple vaccinations were developed to provide immunity to the virus.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), COVID-19 vaccines such as Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna are safe, effective and life-saving.
However, more recently, scientists have discovered that the compounds found in marijuana can also prevent the transmission of the virus by blocking its entry into human cells.
Let’s find out how cannabis compounds can treat and prevent COVID-19 infections.
Cannabis and COVID-19 – study findings
Cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) are compounds that are both commonly found in hemp and have the potential to combat coronavirus.
A scientific study revealed that these cannabinoid acids bind to the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 which causes COVID-19. This essentially blocks the virus from infecting human cells and progressing any further.
Studies also showed that CBGA and CBDA blocked the action of emerging strains of the virus too, most notably the alpha and beta variants.
How effective is cannabis as a treatment for COVID-19?
Using compounds to block virus-receptor interaction has proven successful in the past – particularly for patients with oral infections including, but not limited to, HIV-1 and hepatitis.
Although variants may still arise when using cannabinoids, researchers are optimistic that COVID-19 vaccines (including booster jabs), coupled with CBDA/CBGA treatment, should make it more challenging for SARS-CoV-2 to infect the cells.
The lead scientist on the study, Richard Van Breeman, outlined how cannabinoids could be developed into drugs to treat and prevent COVID-19 infections – pending further research, of course.
Is cannabis safe to use?
Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, cannabinoid acids are not controlled substances. Therefore, users won’t get “high” when using drugs that contain CBGA and CBDA to prevent or treat COVID-19.
Hemp is a source of fibre, and extracts are typically applied to cosmetics and dietary supplements, offering a host of health benefits. The compounds derived from the hemp plant can be taken orally and have a long history of safe use in humans.
It’s also important to note that cannabidiol (CBD) – the second most prevalent cannabinoid found in the Cannabis sativa plant – is believed to have therapeutic properties that can potentially reduce inflammation and scarring in COVID-19 patients.
CBD can affect how the brain’s chemical receptors perceive pain and offset the effects of low serotonin levels in the body. And given that common COVID-19 symptoms include body aches, sore throat and headaches, the pain relief CBD offers is often welcomed by patients.
Want to know more?
If you would like further information on this topic or you’re considering taking a form of cannabis to fight against the coronavirus, always consult your doctor first. And if you have any questions regarding the CBD oil we supply here at Peak Organics, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 0333 043 9975.