Influenza (Flu)

Influenza is a relatively common infection that can easily spread between people. Symptoms include a high temperature, an aching body, tiredness, headache and symptoms similar to a very bad cold. Although we have vaccines for many types of influenza, it can still be a very dangerous disease, especially to those who are immunocompromised or elderly.

As for whether cannabis can treat viral infections such as influenza, it is unlikely to be able to battle the virus directly. Indeed, due to cannabinoids’ anti-inflammatory effects, using cannabis may increase replication of the flu virus. This is because inflammation is a way of fighting off the infection.

Where cannabis and cannabinoids may help is in the recovery stage, where the virus has been fended off but pain, inflammation, sleeplessness, nausea and lack of appetite may still be occurring.

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