As researchers the world over race to develop curative vaccines, and doctors across the country struggle to find effective treatments for symptoms, others are studying a more natural source to combat the effects of the coronavirus: cannabidiol (CBD) from the hemp plant.
Scientists in the United States and Canada are unearthing growing evidence that cannabidiol — already a popular alternative for many facing maladies such as anxiety or chronic pain — may have a role to play in the treatment of COVID-19, the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, “the coronavirus.” There’s hope that CBD (likely in partnership with other naturally occurring compounds in hemp), could deny the coronavirus the entryway it uses to connect to cells, fight lung inflammation, or even prevent the potentially deadly “cytokine storm” in which a patient’s immune system goes haywire.
It’s important to note that CBD is not a cure for COVID-19, and CBD research is in the early stages — the virus itself has only been found in humans for seven months.
Also, everyone who contracts COVID-19 reacts differently it depending on factors like age and underlying conditions, so a treatment that may help one patient may not help another. But the enthusiasm for CBD as a potential treatment is real, and growing in momentum.