Can CBD fight cold and flu symptoms?

Fall is here, the leaves are falling, temperatures are fluctuating wildly, outerwear is returning and cold and flu season is here. Colds typically hit in August, but no one wants to get sick between Thanksgiving and New Year’s when there are lots of parties and work is less busy. Can CBD combat cold and flu symptoms when fun and celebrations are at stake?

Missing out on this relaxing time of year because you’re lying in bed because of the cold is a nightmare. However, CBD companies promise that their products can relieve many of the symptoms associated with colds. One important caveat: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) still hasn’t issued regulations for CBD products, and there aren’t many peer-reviewed research studies due to restrictions placed on scientists working with cannabis.

RELATED: Here’s how to avoid getting sick during the holiday season

While CBD is not penicillin, some doctors may now use the cannabinoid as a supplement to combat cold symptoms. Mary Clifton, a New York-based internal medicine doctor and cannabis expert, told NJ.com that CBD can help reduce body aches and fever. The reason for this is interleukins, a glycoprotein that is responsible for regulating the immune system. CBD can influence the body’s production of interleukins and thus strengthen the immune system.

Photo from rawpixel.com

“If you have a cold and flu [treatment]“If you’re pushing yourself hard in the gym, you can add CBD to the situation and it will be right next to your Advil,” Clifton said.

CBD, a known anti-inflammatory, can relieve inflammation and irritation caused by a sore throat. Similarly, CBD can open the nasal and sinus passages, making it easier for people with a stuffy nose to breathe. However, the best tactic is to combine the use of CBD with another superfood like turmeric to boost the anti-inflammatory effects.

RELATED: 5 ways to beat the winter blues this year

By the way, the idea that CBD could be a cure for cold and flu symptoms isn’t necessarily new. Robert Melamede, who previously served as chair of the biology department at the University of Colorado Boulder, called for scientists to focus on treating cold and flu symptoms with cannabis a decade ago.

“Modern antiviral medical technology is currently not sufficient to meet the world’s immediate challenges,” said Melamede. “We believe that medicines based on cannabis extracts can reduce the number of flu deaths.”