A new study published in the Journal of Nature Products showed that cannabis compounds blocked the SARS-CoV-2 virus from entering healthy human cells, thus preventing CoViD-19 infection.
The researchers from Oregon State University identified two compounds in cannabis namely, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), which they found responsible for combating coronavirus. Upon observation, the compounds were seen to bound to the virus's spike protein and thus blocking the pathogen from infecting human cells.
The effects of the compounds were tested against the virus's Alpha and Beta variants. The infection rates among those who used the compounds compared to those who didn't, however, were not studied.
Being a good source of fiber, cannabis extracts are often added in cosmetic products, food products as well as dietary supplements.
Richard van Breemen, a researcher at Oregon State's Global Hemp Innovation Center, said:
"These compounds can be taken orally and have a long history of safe use in humans. They have the potential to prevent as well as treat infection by SARS-CoV-2."
[Based on reporting by: Bloomberg]
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