The Key Findings
A study conducted by Oregon State University and Oregon Health & Science University has found that hemp has the ability to prevent COVID-19 from infecting human cells. The study found that hemp effectively blocks the entry of SARS-COV-2 by enmeshing itself to the spike protein of the virus. The results proved effective on both the tested Alpha and Beta variants.
Dr Richard Van Breemen explains that hemp could be taken in the form of a pill or gummy after being in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 in order to prevent the virus from spreading.
Public Response
The study has been causing significant discussion online, including whether smoking marijuana would provide the same preventative effect. Dr Van Breemen states that although no extensive experiments involving smoking marijuana have been conducted, he believes the preventative effect would largely diminish if smoked, as the heat required would cause certain chemicals to decompose, reducing the efficacy observed in the study.
Challenges and Funding
The study was initially proposed to the National Institutes of Health in 2020, however the NIH refused to fund it due to lack of initial proof. Legal challenges were also faced due to inconsistencies between state and federal cannabis laws in the US.
A Note on Australian Law
The law around medicinal cannabis, manufacturing, licensing and permits is complex in Australia. If you require assistance with any such issue, contact Zed Legal today at hello@zed.legal.