CBD is touted as the "miracle supplement" curing everything from arthritis to cancer. It was only a matter of time before unscrupulous marketers began promoting CBD as a cure for COVID-19. Their rationale for this unsupported claim is that CBD is a strong antioxidant and there is evidence that it can reduce inflammation, a factor which plays a primary role in the severity of COVID-19 infection. The major problem with this irresponsible advertising claim is there is not a shred of evidence that CBD offers any benefit in the treatment of COVID-19. And there is the danger that individuals who develop symptoms of COVID-19 may rely on CBD rather than seeking medical help. For once the FDA was on top of the situation sending cease-and-desist letters to the unethical marketers.
There has been research on the impact of CBD on lung function however these studies were done in animals and the results were equivocal whether CBD helps or possibly complicates infections that target the lungs. That said CBD may have a role in the COVID-19 pandemic by helping individuals cope with the high stress and anxiety of these tumultuous times, CBD has been shown to have anti-anxiety effects in a number of small trials. Data from the National Consumer Study on CBD Use and Perception also showed strong anecdotal support by users that CBD is effective in relieving stress and anxiety. (by the way if you haven't taken the survey here is the link)
The bottom line – CBD, along with other stress reducers such as exercise, good night's sleep, yoga and meditation, may be useful to help us get us through the COVID 19 pandemic.
