During the Covid-19 pandemic, several research teams studied different inflammatory mechanisms observed in certain patients. Among the many avenues explored, cannabinoids — especially cannabidiol (CBD) — attracted attention due to their already documented anti-inflammatory properties in other contexts.

Why were researchers interested in CBD?

CBD is one of the most widely studied cannabinoids. Unlike THC, it is non-psychoactive and interacts differently with the endocannabinoid system, a network present throughout the body that helps regulate many processes, including inflammation.

Long before the pandemic, various scientific publications had already examined how CBD could influence certain inflammatory responses. When the health crisis emerged, it was therefore natural for laboratories to consider this molecule as a theoretical research avenue.

Lung inflammation and cytokines: the context

In certain severe forms of Covid-19, researchers observed a strong inflammatory reaction in the lungs. This reaction can be accompanied by an excessive production of cytokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), a molecule often referenced in scientific studies.

IL-6 is a cytokine associated with the acute phase of inflammation. When overactivated, it can trigger an inflammatory response that becomes too intense, which explains the scientific interest in understanding this mechanism.

What early exploratory studies suggested

During the pandemic, a few teams — mostly in North America — published preliminary work suggesting that certain cannabinoids might influence specific inflammatory pathways under laboratory conditions.

These observations included:

• a possible modulation of cytokine production;
• in vitro effects on inflammatory pathways involving IL-6;
• hypotheses related to cellular receptors involved in inflammatory responses.

These were exploratory studies, conducted primarily on cell cultures or animal models. They never constituted clinical evidence of efficacy.

What these studies did not show

It is essential to remember that:

• CBD has never been validated as a treatment or prevention for Covid-19;
• no medical authority has recognised any cannabinoid as a therapeutic option related to the virus;
• the studies published were theoretical, preliminary and limited in scope.

As often in science, an observation made in the laboratory forms a starting hypothesis — never a final conclusion.

Why these studies remain valuable

Even if they do not lead to a treatment, these studies helped expand scientific knowledge about:

• interactions between the endocannabinoid system and the inflammatory response;
• the anti-inflammatory potential of CBD in contexts unrelated to Covid;
• new avenues for understanding chronic inflammatory conditions.

In summary

The research conducted during the pandemic highlighted a growing scientific interest in cannabinoids and their potential role in inflammatory mechanisms. These studies are exploratory and should not be interpreted as medical recommendations.

They nevertheless contribute to a better understanding of how hemp and its molecules interact with the human body.

This article presents the current state of knowledge in a neutral and educational manner. It does not replace medical advice and does not constitute a therapeutic recommendation.