A recent study on the effects of CBD against coronavirus is providing promising results and new information for those researching cannabinoids in medicine. The study, conducted by Oregon State University, indicates that certain types of cannabinoid acids can help fight against coronavirus. While a lot of scientific research is still in progress with regard to CBD and its health benefits, this new insight to CBD and COVID-19 is exciting.
How Does CBD Help with Coronavirus?
CBD has been shown to possess antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, so it makes sense that it could be effective in fighting coronavirus.
In the study from Oregon State, CBD was found to inhibit the growth of the virus in human cells. Further, certain hemp compounds prevent coronavirus from entering human cells, thus blocking coronavirus altogether. This is a promising development, and more research is needed to determine whether CBD could be used as a viable treatment for COVID-19.
CBDa & CBGa
Scientists found that a pair of cannabinoid acids bind to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, blocking a critical step in the process the virus uses to infect people. These compounds are cannabigerolic acid (CBGa) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDa). The acids are commonly found in hemp and hemp extracts.
CBGa and CBDa seem to work by attaching themselves to a protein on the surface of the virus called SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. This attachment blocks the virus from entering human cells. The acids do this by disrupting a process called endocytosis, which is how the virus infects cells.
How to Use CBDa & CBGa
Product development for CBDa and CBGa is still in progress from most CBD manufacturers, but it’s reasonable to assume it will come in a form similar to other CBD products. We’ll likely see tinctures, topicals, capsules and edible products used for CBDa and CBGa consumption.
Other Uses of CBDa & CBGa
The new study from Oregon State also found that CBDa and CBGa have anti-inflammatory properties. This could be a powerful tool in the fight against diseases like cancer, Crohn’s disease and others that involve chronic inflammation.
It’s still early in the research, but these cannabinoid acids could turn out to be incredibly important in the world of CBD and cannabis medicine.
As we learn more about the potential benefits of cannabinoids like CBD, it’s important to explore all of the ways they might be able to help us live healthier lives. The discovery of CBDa and CBGa is just one important step in understanding the potential health benefits of CBD and other cannabinoids.
Could CBD Be Better Than Existing Coronavirus Treatments?
At this point, it’s not clear whether CBD would be better than existing treatments available for coronavirus. However, it’s important to explore all potential options for treatment, especially a completely natural treatment like CBD. Before taking any CBD products for any reason, be sure to consult with your medical doctor.
Final Thoughts
CBD has been shown to be beneficial for a variety of other health conditions, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and cancer. It’s also been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and helping with sleep. So, it seems that CBD could be helpful for just about anyone who wants to improve their health. As research continues to develop, we’ll continue to see how beneficial CBGa and CBDa are in fighting against coronavirus and even the common flu.