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Hemp Oil has been shown to possibly reduce viral inflammation, known as a cytokines storm, which can be detrimental and even deadly to a person suffering from a viral infection, such as COVID-19. CBD has been found to interact directly with CB2 receptors in the immune system which may help mitigate inflammation and even alert the body of abnormal cell growth. New research suggests that Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil could become a reliable tool in the modern wellness arsenal and a viable treatment for conditions relating to immune health.
The Role of Inflammation
Under normal circumstances, inflammation plays an important role in cell termination and repair. A Harvard report on inflammation in the body explains, “Inflammation is a vital function of the innate immune system that is triggered immediately when it detects an invading pathogen or damaged tissue. However, if the threat remains and the immune response is constantly triggered—or an individual has a condition that is causing the immune system to react as if there is a threat—the inflammatory response can continue and damage the body instead of healing it.” Inflammation unchecked is what fuels some of the most challenging chronic diseases we face today. The Harvard article notes that chronic inflammation can lead to conditions like cancer, diabetes, asthma, Alzheimer’s, and rheumatoid arthritis.
The Endocannabinoid System and Inflammation
A 2009 study on the connection between endocannabinoids and immune regulation hints at potential treatment options for sufferers of chronic inflammation. The work examined immune response in different cell types and their effect on the cytokine network. Jacqueline Jacques also discusses this topic in her 2018 article about the Endocannabinoid System (ECS):
“The organs and cells of the immune system are rich with endocannabinoid receptors. Cannabinoid receptors are expressed in the thymus gland, spleen, tonsils, and bone marrow – as well as on T- and B-lymphocytes, macrophages, mast cells, neutrophils, and natural killer cells. The ECS is considered to be the primary driver of immune system balance. Although not all of the functions of the ECS in the immune system are known, the ECS appears to regulate cytokine production and to have a role in preventing overactivity in the immune system. By keeping the immune response in check, the ECS helps maintain a balanced inflammatory response throughout the body.”
Exciting Discoveries: CBD and COVID-19
Research released in May 2020 revealed fascinating findings about the potential effects of cannabis on the COVID-19 virus: “Similar to other respiratory pathogens, SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19) is transmitted through respiratory droplets, with potential for aerosol and contact spread. It uses receptor-mediated entry into the human host via angiotensin-converting enzyme II (ACE2) that is expressed in lung tissue, as well as oral and nasal mucosa, kidney, testes, and the gastrointestinal tract. Modulation of ACE2 levels in these gateway tissues may prove a plausible strategy for decreasing disease susceptibility. Cannabis sativa, especially one high in the anti- inflammatory cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD), has been proposed to modulate gene expression and inflammation and harbour anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties.”
ACE2 levels were in fact significantly down-regulated when specific strains of cannabis were introduced, supporting their theory that the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD could inhibit the virus’s ability to successfully bind to a host. Cannabinoids may decrease the number of receptors available to the virus giving your body more of a chance to fight it.
Incorporating Hemp Oil Into Your Lifestyle
The SynchronicityTM team encourages you to speak with your doctor about the benefits of Hemp Oil and your specific health needs. It’s also important to check in with your body when determining if Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil capsules, topicals, or tinctures are right for you. Be sure to read ingredients and understand the products you consume; not all hemp is created equally. SynchronicityTM products contain not only beneficial cannabinoids like CBD, but also additional molecules that support the immune system’s defense to viral infiltration.
If you’re interested in learning more about Hemp Oil properties or decoding some of the biology terms referenced here, check out our glossary of CBD terms, our in-depth guide to Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil, and our detailed paper, Searching for Connections Between Hemp Oil and Immune Health.
References
- The Cannabinoid System and Cytokine Network
- Harvard report on the effects of inflammation
- Endocannabinoids and immune regulation
- The Endocannabinoid System: The Most Important System You’ve Never Heard Of
- In Search of Preventative Strategies: Novel Anti-Inflammatory High-CBD Cannabis Sativa Extracts Modulate ACE2 Expression in COVID-19 Gateway Tissues
- Synchronicity Product Line
