The COVID-19 crisis has affected every American. The situation has made people more aware than ever of the effects of personal lifestyle and healthcare choices. Even those who utilize medical cannabis are asking about the safety of smoking during this time.
Experts have observed that cigarette smoking worsens the outcome for those infected with COVID-19. This fact begs the question – does this apply to medical cannabis?
Early studies have shown that smoking may increase vulnerability to the coronavirus infection, which attaches to ACE2 receptors in the lungs. Cigarette smoking appears to cause an increase in the number of receptors on the lung, making it more likely for the virus to take hold and cause illness.
Although there is no current study to refer to in regards to smoking medical cannabis as opposed to cigarettes, users may want to err on the side of caution and consider utilizing non-inhalation methods of administration. Any type of smoke stresses the lungs, something we want to avoid during this outbreak. Those looking to continue cannabis use but abstain from smoking may consider edibles, oils, tinctures, and topicals.
Note: There is no study regarding the use of any cannabis product in regards to infectious diseases such as COVID-19. Patients with a compromised immune system may consider abstaining entirely as a precaution. Please consult with your physician.
Vaping
Although smokeless, vaping involves inhaling a substance into the lungs. Experts are warning for at-risk patients to cease vaping as well as smoking at this time.
Edibles and Tinctures
Edible cannabis products may prove to be a more prudent choice during the COVID-19 outbreak.
An edible is a food that utilizes cannabis-infused oil or butter in the recipe. Oils and tinctures are cannabinoid-infused and are ingested orally or sublingually. T
- Cannabis oil can replace other oils in many recipes.
- Cannabis butter can replace regular butter for many types of baking and cooking.
- Cannabis coconut oil is popular for both topicals and edibles., but will make your recipes taste more like coconut.
- In cannabis tinctures, cannabinoids are extracted into high-grade alcohol, useful for candies and cocktails.
- Cannabis sugar can be added to coffee or tea, providing a natural source of THC.
CBD Topicals
Cannabis-infused skincare is available in the form of lotions, creams and balms. These options offer localized and direct relief from pain and inflammation without the intoxicating effects of other cannabis products that contain THC.
CBD topicals penetrate the skin without entering the patient’s bloodstream. Because of this, they are a popular choice for those looking to focus on a specific area of pain, such as :
* Joint and muscle pain, arthritis
* Skin ailments such as psoriasis, eczema or dermatitis
* Headaches and migraines
If you are currently a medical cannabis patient, you may wish to discuss your situation with your physician. If you are worried about a COVID-19 infection and currently smoke your cannabis, you can discuss any other forms of treatment which may work for you.
The state of Florida has approved telemedicine in response to the crisis. This guideline means you should be able to consult with your doctor without visiting his office or leaving home. Delivery of medical cannabis has been an option in Sarasota for several years, and many dispensaries have added curbside pickup. Dispensaries will remain open for medical cannabis patients.
Whether you have questions regarding your current cannabis use or are looking for further information, you can trust the team at Neurology of Cannabis. Dr. Daniel P. Stein is a leading expert in the utilization of medical marijuana for a wide range of qualifying conditions. Call us today.