Does Cannabis Help Prevent COVID?
Cannabis enthusiast and student of the art of solventless extraction
A recent study suggests that certain molecules produced by the cannabis plant can prevent COVID-19 infection. These molecules, collectively referred to as cannabinoids, trigger a variety of responses in the body through interaction with our Endocannabinoid System, a network of receptors that runs from head to toe.
Certain cannabinoids block COVID virus entry into cells according to a study published last week by researchers affiliated with Oregon State University.
Cannabis produces dozens of cannabinoids, but there are specific ones that can potentially prevent infection of COVID. The acid forms of CBD and CBG, which are called CBDA and CBGA, bind to the spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19. Once the cannabinoids are attached to the spike proteins, they prevent the virus from entering the cells and causing infection.
These cannabinoids can be taken orally, either as isolated compounds or in full spectrum extracts.
This study was conducted in a petri dish with cells and the spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2, rather than with human test subjects. Therefore, it's too early to confirm that either smoking or ingesting cannabis can actually help prevent COVID.
However, the research seems promising.
The author of the study, Richard van Breemen, says “Our data show CBDA and CBGA are effective against the two variants we looked at, and we hope that trend will extend to other existing and future variants.”
Although more research and scientific study is needed, it does seem clear at this point that cannabis has potential to help in the fight against COVID.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is SARS-CoV-2?
SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes COVID-19.
Does smoking weed help with COVID?
It's thought that the acid form of certain cannabinoids can help prevent infection of COVID. The acid forms of cannabinoids need to be ingested instead of smoked.
Which cannabinoids help with COVID?
The acid forms of CBD and CBG, which are called CBDA and CBGA, bind to the spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19.
What is the study about COVID and cannabis?
Researchers affiliated with Oregon State University led the study, authored by Richard van Breemen.
How can cannabis help with COVID?
According to the study, certain cannabinoids block COVID virus entry into cells. Once cannabinoids are attached to the spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2, they prevent the virus from entering the cells and causing infection.
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