Science Roundup!
CBD and COVID-19
Let’s take a little time to focus on emerging research of cannabinoids as therapy for COVID-19. Since the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic, the first approach by mainstream science was to make a new type of RNA vaccine. This was on one hand very successful, however, the limitations of this approach turned out to be that the COVID-19 virus mutates very quickly, making it an elusive target for a single vaccine. In CBD and cannabinoid research, we have found some very important clues about CBD and other cannabinoids and how they may help prevent Covid-19 and its variants, and when contracted, it appears to decrease the likelihood of severe infection for those who do become infected. We will also speculate on cannabinoids as a potential treatment for post-Covid syndrome and post vaccination syndrome in those with lingering effects after infection with Covid-19.
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Focus on Research
Two noteworthy articles in cannabinoid research suggests that cannabinoids are helpful in preventing and ameliorating COVD-19 infections. These articles give scientific evidence that supports the use of CBD, CBD A and CBG A for prevention of more severe forms of Covid induced illness:
OSU study identifies hemp compounds with potential to block COVID | kgw.com
Prevention is worth an ounce of cure, and for those interested in what CBD for health maintenance and prevention of COVID infections, a commonsense approach would be to consider the use of the cannabinoids CBD and CBDA or CBGA as part of a preventative approach to this virus. The OSU study indicates that CBD A and CBG A block the binding of COVID to the host cells, thereby decreasing the infection rate in exposed individuals.
In cases of early infection, it further appears based on the science study noted above, that CBD significantly reduces viral replication in lung epithelial cells. This is a major finding because decreased viral replication will result in a decreased viral load, and as a result, a decreased likelihood of respiratory complications.
As we learn more, we may also discover mechanisms whereby viral reproduction is decreased in the CNS, a second system which is responsible for some of the lingering symptoms of “long haul” COVID, which will be referred to here as “post COVID syndrome”.
Looking at the “A”s
One candidate for a cannabinoid that may help in the recovery from neurological effects of COVID-19 and post COVID syndrome is THCA, which acts as a neuroprotective agent (see third link below). Consult your healthcare provider about whether Happy Llama full spectrum CBD oil, which contains CBD and smaller amounts of CBD A, and Happy Llama Tranquil Llama which contains CBD, CBG and CBG A, can help on this wellness journey.
Happy Llama products are lovingly and organically grown and produced in southern and western Virginia, and extracted and formulated in Blacksburg, Virginia. Based on the favorable side effect profile and the scientifically proven beneficial effects as well as the calming effects, regular use of CBD oil at bedtime is a commonly recommended starting regimen. This should always be considered on a case-by-case basis in consultation with your healthcare provider or advisors.
Click here to check out our great products including CBD gummies and oils
Looking Forward
In times of Covid, some exposure is likely especially with all of the COVID variants out there. Cannabinoids are not limited to targeting a single variant due to the boosting of the immune system in general in responding to virus infections, and a decrease in the inflammatory cascades that be caused by cytokines and other chemical messengers in the body, and the harmful effects that too much inflammation can cause. The Endocannabinoid system (ECS) and cannabinoids give us the potential to decrease the frequency and severity of COVID based on these recent scientific studies, and the evidence suggests that the ECS has the ability to impact the immune system response in beneficial ways.
It will be interesting to see over time what science will discover about how the ECS assists the immune system in adapting to pathogens and other health challenges, and whether the neuroprotective effects of THCa and other compounds will be effective in post COVID syndrome. The article below describes the neuroprotective potential of THCa, which may have an application in neurodegenerative illnesses such as early Parkinson’s disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28853159/
