The sad reality about history is that pandemics are a natural part of the human condition, and can have wide effects that alter our future trajectory
The sad reality about history is that pandemics are a natural part of the human condition, and can have wide effects that alter our future trajectory. From the multiple outbreaks of the bubonic plague dating back to the 1300s, to the H1N1 outbreak at the sunset of World War I, disease is something we cannot escape, but can control.
The latest outbreak of the novel Coronavirus, leading to COVID-19, caught the world by surprise at the end of 2019. Despite the numbers, there’s no way to measure the ways people were affected by this disease, or the value of the lives lost. However, it’s easy to find people who are trying to profit out of tragedy. Some of them are touting CBD as the solution to the Coronavirus outbreak.
Does CBD actually prevent Coronavirus? More importantly, should people start using CBD oil if they are concerned about catching Coronavirus? Here’s the truth about CBD and Coronavirus, so you can make an educated decision about your health and your body.
How CBD Got Into the Coronavirus Conversation
When most people think about adding CBD oil to their regular regimen, they are often attracted to claims of reducing hypertension, anxiety, or for topical pain and skin inflammation. But because the novel Coronavirus is a new situation, there’s no research on how CBD affects the virus.
Although there are many wild claims on the internet not attributed to anyone, in particular, the first documented note about CBD came from former NFL player Kyle Turley. As one of the leaders of a CBD company, he tweeted to his audience: “CBD can prevent and cure the Corona Virus [sic].”
The claim isn’t necessarily true, but it’s not necessarily false either. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has only approved one CBD-based medication for the treatment of disease, and it’s for two very rare cases of pediatric epilepsy. On the whole, any claim about CBD is not approved for the treatment of any condition, and any statements made about them are not intended to treat, diagnose, prevent or cure any disease.
While Turley received a “letter of warning” from the FDA, initial research on CBD may provide some promise. The problem is that they don’t know enough to make a definitive statement yet.
The Research on CBD and Coronavirus
Because of the demand for a widespread response to fighting the Coronavirus, doctors are working around the clock to find a vaccine to prevent the spread of the virus. But research done before the virus suggests that there may be some benefit to CBD use to bolster the immune system.
A 2020 study published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research by two doctors discovered that CBD could help regulate the body’s immune response. After introducing CBD in vitro, the doctors discovered that CBD contains anti-inflammatory properties. This is opening the door to other studies that will further explore how CBD could positively affect and regulate the immune system.
More research is needed to definitively understand the effect of CBD on human immunity. As plainly stated by ProjectCBD: “Scientists know that plant…impact our health by interacting in different ways with the endocannabinoid system. Thus, it makes sense that consuming medical cannabis will also directly affect our immune system.”
However, there’s no direct research suggesting that CBD contains or stops novel Coronavirus viral infections. So why consider adding an organic, full-spectrum CBD oil to your regimen? The answer may not come from what CBD oil does to Coronavirus, but many of the other anecdotal benefits.
The Actual Benefits of CBD Oil in Today’s World
Even though there’s no evidence of CBD actually battling the Coronavirus, there are a lot of other researched potential benefits that you may benefit from. In particular, the use of organic, full spectrum CBD oil may calm anxiety and promote heart health.
Much of the research around CBD is focused on how it reacts with the endocannabinoid system, and how the body absorbs the full spectrum of cannabinoids. Previous studies suggest that those who take CBD compared to a placebo experience reduced stress, lower blood pressure and a relaxed heart rate. As a result, CBD may be able to promote calm and wellness during a time of uncertainty.
When you buy CBD oil to start a regimen, this is a personal decision, and anyone considering it should consult with their doctor about their goals and potential medication conflicts. While CBD oil can’t cure or prevent novel Coronavirus, it can potentially help you get the clarity you need to navigate the situation and plan for a healthier tomorrow.
