A new study has discovered that compounds found in marijuana can help prevent the spread of the coronavirus, which can cause severe respiratory infections.

For their study, the researchers focused on a biological compound that could interact with the SARS-COV-2 virus’ spike protein. They selected three compounds: cannabinolic acid, tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, and cannabidiol-A. Unfortunately, they weren’t able to find enough of the latter to effectively assess its effects.

Most of us are familiar with the names of these compounds, which are known to get you stoned and have other health benefits. However, they come from the precursor chemicals that are found in the plant.

Unfortunately, these compounds can’t be obtained from marijuana through the consumption of its resin. Instead, they’d have to be extracted from a plant.

For their study, the team tested the effects of these compounds on human cells by exposing them to live strains of the coronavirus. They discovered that the compounds prevented the virus from carrying its RNA. They also noted that the same effect was observed in the cells that were treated with CBG-A and CBD-A.

They also found compounds from the Cannabis sativa plant that can inhibit the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. These two compounds, cannabinolic acid and cannabidiolic acid, prevented the virus from entering human cells.

Both compounds were able to kill the beta and alpha variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Their bioavailability and long history of safe use make them an attractive option for treating infections.