New Study, Cannabis Can Stop SARS-CoV-2 Infection In Lungs

JAKARTA - The latest research results published in bioRxiv last week revealed that cannabis plant compounds can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection in human lungs.

According to the findings of a research team from the University of Chicago, cannabidiol or cannabis (CBD), a compound element in the Cannabis sativa plant and metabolite 7-OH-CBD, can stop the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in epithelial cells as reported by Sputnik News.

For information, epithelial cells are cells originating from the surface of the human body such as the skin, blood vessels, urinary tract, and other organs.

The researchers also found that CBD could inhibit viral gene expression and was able to reverse it in host genes. CBD is also able to generate proteins released by cells in response to the entry of viruses.

Patients using CBD had lower rates of SARS-CoV-2 infection than patients not using CBD.

"This study highlights CBD, and its active metabolite, 7-OH-CBD, as a potential antidote agent and treatment for SARS-CoV-2 in the early stages of infection", co-author Marsha Rosner told News Medical.

This is not the first time scientists have suggested that CBD could help prevent COVID-19.

According to Dr. Frank Lucido, a practicing doctor who works with medical marijuana patients reveals that CBD can potentially reduce cytokines.

"CBD looks promising in reducing cytokine storms, which appear to be the most damaging aspect of COVID-19 infection", said Lucido.