The study discovered that hemp compounds can prevent infection from COVID-19 in a similar way to vaccines.
The research was conducted by affiliates of Oregon State University and discovered that two acids found in hemp can bind together to prevent the COVID-19 virus from entering the body through cells.
So that’s why we haven’t gotten COVID yet!
These acids are present in hemp and most hemp extracts, which aren’t controlled substances like THC.
A controlled substance is anything that is regulated by the government, which means consuming the hemp compounds that are effective against COVID-19 is completely legal.
The specific compounds in question are cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), and cannabidiol acid (CBDA).
“These compounds can be taken orally and have a long history of safe use in humans,” said lead researcher, Richard van Breeman.
The treatment is slightly technical, but it works in a similar way to the COVID-19 vaccines. The compounds bind together and target the virus’ spike protein to break down its protection, and reduce the severity of the infection.
The cannabinoids have proven to be equally effective against the alpha and beta variants of COVID-19, so treatment of other variants seems probable.
A similar technique has been used to treat other viral infections like HIV-1 and hepatitis, by blocking the virus from entering the body. But these treatments use other antibodies, so the successful use of cannabis compounds is an exciting breakthrough.
Further investigation is needed, but van Breeman believes they will be able to develop these findings into a medication to prevent and treat COVID-19.
