Even though things appear to be getting better, the COVID-19 pandemic is still tearing through societies and economies worldwide. Now, a year removed from the initial panic, there are at least three versions of a vaccine available for COVID-19. Some companies are even suggesting third and fourth doses or ‘booster shots.’ Naturally, citizens have become divided concerning vaccines. Do you know who is not getting so worked up in the argument? Cannabis smokers. Additionally, more research promotes cannabis as a ‘decent’ supplement for fighting bacterial and viral infections.
How cannabis and cannabis accessories resist COVID-19
One key deduction why countless dispensaries and cannabis delivery services have remained open in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic since March 2020 is that they provide a multitude of medicine to multiple patients. Cannabis is medicine, which in turn makes CBD vital during the pandemic. Moreover, independent research suggests strengthening the immune system when using cannabis. The effects are thanks to the body’s Endocannabinoid System (or ECS.)
Examining the Endocannabinoid System
The ECS is a network of receptors located throughout the entire body responsible for providing you with the effect of CBD. The statement mentioned above, in theory, means that the ECS would be the catalyst for helping cannabinoids and terpenes fight the Coronavirus. The Endocannabinoid System is a complex network found in the human body tasked with the distribution and digestion of cannabis and cannabinoids. The ECS exists in many other mammals and a few amphibians. The ECS consists of nodes known as receptors created to respond to the cannabinoids found in virtually all strains of cannabis.
Researchers discovered the ECS in the 1980s. Two researchers were able to determine the location of most of the nodes within the Endocannabinoid System. Researchers located the extent of CB2 receptors throughout the digestive tract. Other researchers believe a correlation exists between the ability to ward off Crohn’s Disease exhibited in cannabis and the location of CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain.
CBG cannabinoids and COVID-19
Recently, Lethbridge University performed a study surrounding the effectiveness of cannabinoids combating bacteria. A group of scientists at Lethbridge found that CBG, a common cannabinoid, was influential in performing the former. Tests showcased energy in combating Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, commonly known as MRSA. CBG is also non-psychoactive. This means that this cannabinoid does not get patients high.
CBD vs. COVID-19
CBD, also known as Cannabinol, is one of the cannabinoids found in mature cannabis plants. Unlike THC, Cannabinol is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. The former means that CBD does not get patients high. It has undoubtedly become just as popular as THC or CBG within the last decade. CBD comes in many forms that patients have used before. These products include flowers, oil, concentrates, capsules, and edibles.
The health benefits of CBD became more evident within the last decade. CBD can relieve patients of adverse health effects such as chronic pain, inflammation, nausea, indigestion, and anxiety. CBD also helps combat microbes and bacteria. Currently, CBD is available in all 50 states.
Final thoughts
Currently, there is a minimal amount of research revolving around how cannabis, cannabinoids, and terpenes interact with the body’s Endocannabinoid System that has been afflicted with the Coronavirus. Furthermore, a handful of studies suggest the terpenes mentioned above and cannabinoids such as CBD, CBG limonene, and caryophyllene hosting an impressive amount of antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
Recently, the United States House of Representatives passed the MORE Act. This bill allows cannabis to be federally accessible. The MORE Act removes cannabis from the list of Schedule I drugs that are federally prohibited. In turn, more (no pun intended) research on cannabis is allowed. Just imagine the things we have not been able to gather about cannabis, thanks to prohibition.