CBD inhibit SARS-CoV-2 from replicating within mice and human lung; thus, protecting against coronavirus infections.
In recent years, CBD-containing products, such as oils and gummies, have become widely popular among people. Cannabidiol, or CBD, is the non-psychoactive compound present in cannabis. The compound is believed to possess many therapeutic properties and has been used to treat migraines, epilepsy, and even cancer in the past. Moreover, due to its anti-inflammatory effects, experts believe the compound can help fight COVID-19. Recently, a team of researchers at the University of Chicago conducted a lab study to test the effect of CBD on coronavirus replication in human lung cells. The results of the study are available in the journal Science Advances.
First, the team exposed human lung cells in a petri dish to a non-toxic dose of CBD for two hours. Next, they exposed the cells to SARS-CoV-2. Although CBD did not affect viral entry into cells, it did prevent replication of the novel coronavirus within the cells. Moreover, when tested against three other variants of SARS-CoV-2, CBD had the same effect.
No one in their right mind would have ever thought that it blocked viral replication, but that’s what it did.
Dr Marsha Rosner, senior author
The researchers further confirmed their findings in a mice model. A week-long CBD treatment, prior to coronavirus infection, helped suppress a SARS-CoV-2 infection in both the lungs and nasal passages of mice.
Next Step: Human Trials
However, a lab study was not enough. Therefore, researchers set out to collect real-world data. The team analyzed data on 1,212 patients from the National COVID Cohort Collaborative. According to the survey, patients taking medically prescribed CBD for epilepsy tested positive for COVID-19 at a significantly lower rate than those not taking CBD. Thus, providing further evidence on CBD’s potential to treat COVID-19.
A clinical trial is necessary to determine whether CBD is really effective at preventing or suppressing SARS-CoV-2 infection, but we think this may have potential as a prophylactic treatment.
Dr Marsha Rosner, senior author
It is important to note that only high purity and high concentration CBD doses helped the researchers achieve these results. Therefore, Dr. Marsha Rosner advises against buying CBD muffins or gummies. Nor are CBD products meant to replace vaccines and current COVID-19 public health guidelines.
The team now plans to conduct trials in humans to determine the dosage, safety and efficacy of CBD against COVID-19.
Reference:
Long Chi Nguyen et al, Cannabidiol inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication through induction of the host ER stress and innate immune responses, Science Advances (2021). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abi6110
