In light of the spreading coronavirus Covid-19, it’s important to note that up to now, the situation has no known cure or vaccine. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the virus a global pandemic. However, weed smokers might have something to smile about, given the qualities of cannabis that relieve pain and flu symptoms.
No Cure Yet for Coronavirus
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) report, “currently no vaccine to prevent” the scourge exists. Besides, “no specific treatment recommended” for COVID-19. The World Health Organization (WHO) refutes any attempt aimed at “taking self-medication.”
But marijuana smokers might have a soft landing when it comes to the effects of the novel virus. Recently, information has been going round in social media platforms that marijuana cures COVID-19. However, no scientific evidence exists to prove this. All the same, we cannot discredit the fact that weed is beneficial in many different health conditions.
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, marijuana is helpful to various health conditions.
“Drugs containing cannabinoids may be helpful in treating certain rare forms of epilepsy, nausea, and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy, and loss of appetite and weight loss associated with HIV/AIDS. In addition, some evidence suggests modest benefits of cannabis or cannabinoids for chronic pain and multiple sclerosis symptoms.”
Cannabis and General Wellness
While no research exists to verify the effect of cannabis (CBD or THC) on COVID-19, there’s a link between weed and general wellness. Medicinal marijuana offers various health benefits both preventive and curative.
For instance, CBD supports the immune system and alleviate symptoms for the common cold or flu. In such conditions, many users replace over-the-counter painkillers, medicated salves, and sleep pills with CBD. However, it’s important to know that only a particular type of CBD can help and must be used in combination with other remedies.
While both marijuana and tobacco involve inhaling hot smoke, the effect of cannabis on the lungs is milder compared to the grave consequences of tobacco smoking. Donald P Tashkin explains in this journal:
“Several case reports have implicated marijuana smoking as an etiologic factor in pneumothorax/pneumomediastinum and bullous lung disease, although evidence of a possible causal link from epidemiologic studies is lacking. In summary, the accumulated weight of evidence implies far lower risks for pulmonary complications of even regular heavy use of marijuana compared with the grave pulmonary consequences of tobacco.”
The CDC reveals the following as the symptoms of the COVID-19:
- High fever of 37 degrees Celsius
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Have been in contact with a COVID-19 patient
- Recently visited an area with the ongoing spread
In the case of Coronavirus, it is advisable for weed smokers to observe high standards of hygiene, just like the rest of the world. Keep your hands clean, avoid crowded places, shield your coughs, and refrain from sharing pipes or joins. But should you become a victim of the virus, here is how marijuana could help you relieve pain and flu symptoms.
CBD Supports Immune System
While the subject is still under research to confirm the exact link between the immune and endocannabinoid systems, it is safe to say that CBD helps alleviate both inflammatory and autoimmune responses that generate pain. Anna Symonds is the Director of Education at East Fork Cultivars. She says:
“CBD has been found to act as an immune system modulator. This means that it’s like a thermostat—it can turn the level of activity down or up, depending on the body’s needs.” A scientific journal confirms the same concept that regular exposure to THC can induce immunity and host defense.
For effective results, use full-spectrum CBD edible such as oil. You can add to your morning coffee or tea, as part of your regular wellness practice.
Cannabis is good for Bronchodilation
Symonds says Cannabis is a good bronchodilator. It opens the air passages of the lungs by loosening up the bronchial muscles. This, however, doesn’t mean that you smoke a fat blunt, especially if you’re already struggling with bronchial irritation. But if your system is blocked with phlegm, you can use a tabletop vaporizer with a bronchodilator for easy breathing. For effective results, use a CBD-rich flower that smells like evergreen trees. It should also have alpha-pinene as one of its active ingredients.
Cannabis Suppresses Harmful Bacteria
According to a study spearheaded by McMaster University professor Eric Brown, a cannabis component cannabigerol, is effective against Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria commonly known as MRSA, which is anti-biotic resistant. “CBG proved to be marvelous at tackling pathogenic bacteria. The findings suggest a real therapeutic potential for cannabinoids as antibiotics,” stated Brown.
CBD Relieves Pain
CBD is known for its ability to relieve pain, courtesy of its anti-inflammatory components. However, the efficacy varies greatly based on where you buy the product.
“Cannabinoids have shown significant promise in basic experiments on pain. Peripheral nerves that detect pain sensations contain abundant receptors for cannabinoids, and cannabinoids appear to block peripheral nerve pain in experimental animals. Even more encouraging, basic studies suggest that opiates and cannabinoids suppress pain through different mechanisms. If that is the case, marijuana-based medicines could perhaps be combined with opiates to boost their pain-relieving power while limiting their side effects.” For effective results, use full-spectrum CBD topical, gummies, and chocolates.
How Can You Stay Healthy?
The Coronavirus is spreading like bushfire. Not a single country in the world is safe. There are new cases in most countries nearly every day. This is how you can stay safe in the face of this pandemic:
Stop sharing puffs
Whether it’s a blunt, joint, or bong, the COVID-19 virus spreads quickly through person-to-person contact. Stop the puff-and-pass custom, which is pleasurably associated with cannabis smokers. Until further notice, stick to your supply and avoid hand-in-hand greetings.
Make sure your hands are clean—always
According to the CDC directive, handwashing is one of the most effective ways to ward off Coronavirus and other diseases. Spend at least 20 seconds to wash your hands with running water and soap before you start a session or eat anything.
Practice self-quarantine
In the face of this pandemic, self-isolation is a requirement. Keep off crowded places. If possible, work from home, shop digitally and cancel any event that brings many people together. If you have to walk around, keep a 6-feet distance between you and other residents. Importantly, extend help to high-risk individuals in your society. Offer to help them with necessities such as sanitizers, toilet or kitchen rolls. Pick their items when you make a trip to the store.
Don’t fall prey of the uncertified Coronavirus merchandise
Since word has gone round that CBD might cure the virus, many people have taken the situation to their advantage. Social media is awash with fake items and traders purporting to prevent or cure the virus. Those are false claims. Currently, there is no concrete research linking CBD and Coronavirus.
As the world looks for solutions to shield themselves from the effects of the COVID-19, the tips outlined here could help you deal with the situation at an individual level.
References:
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/prevention.html?
- https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses
- https://www.leafly.com/news/health/cannabis-coronavirus-covid-19-facts
- https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/mcmaster-cannabis-antibiotic-1.5476869
- https://www.nap.edu/read/9586/chapter/6#79
- https://www.wweek.com/potlander/2020/03/10/cannabis-wont-cure-coronavirus-but-it-can-help-ease-certain-flu-symptoms/
- https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/why-handwashing.html
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23802821/
