DOES CBD OIL HELP IN TREATING PSORIASIS?

Pagano et al. (2022) reported that CBD oil could treat various diseases like psoriasis, nausea, seizures, and chronic pains.

CBD is a compound derived from the hemp plant. This compound is commonly used as it is not psychoactive like tetrahydrocannabinol. CBD is separated from other hemp compounds using an expensive method. This method involves putting CO2 under very high pressure and temperatures. CBD isolate obtained using this method is mostly pure. There are different CBD products in the market. These products include CBD oil, capsules, gummies, and sprays. Their use is growing worldwide as they treat various diseases and conditions. There are three types of CBD oil:

Full-spectrum CBD

This type of CBD oil contains all cannabinoids, including THC. However, the THC found in the oil is in negligible amounts that are not harmful. According to Jones & Vlachou (2020), combining CBD with THC makes it more effective in treating diseases.

Broad-spectrum CBD

This type of CBD oil contains all the compounds in the cannabis plant apart from THC. It is a good option for those who want to benefit from CBD but avoid THC.

CBD Isolate

This type contains only CBD and no other compounds from the hemp plant.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes extra cells to build on the skin surface. This is a result of increased cell production. It makes the skin to be scaly that only disappears after treatment. It is characterized by skin dryness, redness, itching, soreness, and stiff joints. There is no known treatment for this condition. However, some professionals primarily treat it by preventing skin cells from growing too quickly. Patients with this disease also have psoriatic arthritis, characterized by morning stiffness, pain in joints, swollen toes and fingers, changes in nails, and fatigue. If this disease is not treated, other serious conditions are likely to develop, such as stroke, kidney disease, anxiety, depression, and heart disease. There are different types of psoriasis:

Nail Psoriasis

This type affects fingernails and toenails. It causes abnormal growth of nails, pitting, and discoloration. In severe cases, the nail separates from the nail bed and may finally crumble. However, if noticed earlier, this condition can be managed.

Inverse Psoriasis

This type affects skin folds, especially under the breasts, buttocks, and groin. It makes the skin around this area to be red and swollen. It might worsen when subjected to sweating and friction. A fungal infection can trigger this type of psoriasis, especially without being treated.

Arthritic Psoriasis

This type attacks the joints. It causes swelling and pains in the joints. It can affect any joint in the body. Its symptoms can be severe or mild. If not treated, it can lead to permanent joint damage due to progressive joint damage.

Pustular Psoriasis

It is the rarest type of psoriasis that attack the palms of the hand and the soles of the feet. It causes pus-filled patches that may attack the whole or parts of the palm or soles.

Plaque Psoriasis

This is the most common type of psoriasis. It causes scaly, red raised patches on the skin that are itchy and tender. These patches might be few or many. They mostly attach to the knees, elbows, scalp, and lower back.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

It is a rare type of psoriasis that can attack the entire body. It is characterized by a red peeling rash that is very itchy and burns intensely.

Guttate Psoriasis

This type of psoriasis affects children and young adults. Bacterial infections normally trigger it. It appears as scaling lesions on the arms, legs, and trunk.

How can CBD Oil Help with Psoriasis?

You might think psoriasis is just a harmless mild infection until it becomes widespread and severe. Some people use pharmaceutical antibiotics to treat psoriasis. Since the infection does not disappear quickly, the repeated use of antibiotics may cause resistance. In such cases, try this perfect and natural treatment from the hemp plant. Though there is limited research on how CBD oil can treat this research, some studies have shown that CBD can treat psoriasis.

Atalay et al. (2019) stated that CBD oil contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Since psoriasis is an inflammatory disease, these properties can calm the condition. Some topical treatments, such as lotions and ointments containing CBD, can be applied to the skin to ease itchiness. You can apply more CBD oil to the affected areas and those not affected. Do not apply too much to the unaffected areas. Wade et al. (2003) commented that taking CBD oil can also help manage pain caused by this skin disease. Stress is one of the major triggers of this disease. CBD oil can help reduce stress as it contains anti-depressant properties. A study in 2019 studied the effects of CBD-enriched topicals that did not contain THC on people with various skin conditions, including psoriasis. It was found that there was a great improvement in the condition.

How much CBD should you Use for Psoriasis?

Scientists have yet to establish the minimum dosage for relieving symptoms of psoriasis. Therefore, you can start with lower doses and then increase gradually until you reach the maximum, as indicated by the manufacturers. Keep records of any improvements or changes in your skin. This may also help you decide if to increase or decrease your dosage.

Precautions and Side Effects of CBD

Taking CBD oil may cause side effects such as diarrhea, dizziness, and drowsiness. Applying it on the skin may not have some side effects but be sure not to apply an overdose. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any CBD product. If you notice any severe side effects with CBD products, withdraw the dosage.

Conclusion

Psoriasis is a skin infection that can affect all parts of the body. This condition is characterized by reddening and peeling of the skin. CBD can help in treating psoriasis. You can either apply CBD oil on the skin or take it orally. It will help relieve the pain and prevent stress, a major trigger of the condition. Start with lower dosages increasing gradually until the effects are felt. 

References

Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2019). Antioxidative And Anti-Inflammatory Properties Of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants, 9(1), 21.

Jones, É., & Vlachou, S. (2020). A Critical Review Of The Role Of The Cannabinoid Compounds Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) And Cannabidiol (CBD) And Their Combination In Multiple Sclerosis Treatment. Molecules, 25(21), 4930.

Pagano, C., Navarra, G., Coppola, L., Avilia, G., Bifulco, M., & Laezza, C. (2022). Cannabinoids: Therapeutic Use In Clinical Practice. International Journal Of Molecular Sciences, 23(6), 3344.

Wade, D. T., Robson, P., House, H., Makela, P., & Aram, J. (2003). A Preliminary Controlled Study To Determine Whether Whole-Plant Cannabis Extracts Can Improve Intractable Neurogenic Symptoms. Clinical Rehabilitation, 17(1), 21-29.