Marijuana & COVID-19: New Study Preview

Canadian scientists have conducted research suggesting that certain high-CBD cannabis extracts could potentially decrease susceptibility to COVID-19 by influencing an enzyme called ACE2, which is a critical gateway for the virus. The team developed over 800 new cannabis lines and extracts and found 13 high-CBD cannabis extracts that modulate ACE2 gene expression and protein levels. They hypothesize that these extracts could be used to develop preventative treatments such as mouthwash and throat gargle products. However, the study is still in draft form and has not yet undergone peer review.