CBD for Psoriasis: Does it really work?

July 24, 2020

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin condition that can appear as a result of autoimmune and/or genetic disease. It occurs when skin cells are produced too quickly and create buildup in the form of scaly rashes. Outbreaks can be triggered by factors like environmental changes, stress, sickness, smoking, and taking certain medications.

 

Symptoms of psoriasis may include:

• Red patches of skin, often covered in silver-toned scales
• Small scaly spots
• Dry, cracked skin
• Itching, burning, or overall soreness of skin
• Ridged or excessively thick nails
• Swollen and/or stiff joints

 

This overproduction of cells comes from skin inflammation that causes cells to grow and mature too quickly. This inflammation is also associated with the frequent co-occurrence of arthritis in people suffering from psoriasis.

 

It’s estimated that about 7.5 Americans live with psoriasis. Notable celebrities who suffer from the condition include Kim Kardashian West, Leann Rimes, Cara Delevingne, Cyndi Lauper, Eli Roth, and Phil Mickelson.

 

There is no known cure for psoriasis, but an array of treatments can be used to keep symptoms in check.

 

How Does CBD Help Psoriasis?

 

Many people who are uneducated about the benefits of CBD often assume that the cannabinoid is psychoactive like cannabis, since it can be sourced from the plant. In reality, this could not be further from the case. CBD is not a recreational drug, and contains such low levels of THC (if any at all) that users do not experience the high associated with cannabis.

 

Along with a slew of additional health benefits, CBD is known to contain powerful

psoriasis-fighting components. In a healthy person, skin cells are typically renewed about every 30 days. When an individual suffers from psoriasis, it takes skin cells just three to five days to fully regenerate. This drastic increase creates the buildup of extra skin layers, and creates the redness, itchiness, and scaliness that is associated with psoriasis.

 

Because the increase in skin cells is jump-started by inflammation, CBD can be an especially effective way to combat the condition and the additional ailments that are often associated with it. CBD is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and can be incredibly effective in reducing the

inflammation that causes both the rashes themselves and the oft-accompanying pain of arthritis, Crohn’s Disease, and more.

 

While knowledge of the effects of CBD on psoriasis is still in the early stages, the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) does recognize the potential that early research has shown on the matter.

 

In an article geared to help those who suffer from psoriatic disease, the NPF briefly discuss the benefits of treating symptoms with CBD. Pointing to two separate studies done by scientists in the early 2000’s, NPF notes that CBD may help those with psoriasis, “by slowing the overgrowth of certain skin cells” and “could have anti-arthritic properties.” The NPF suggests that patients combine CBD supplements with traditional prescription medications.

 

What CBD Products Work Well For Psoriasis?

Rubbing a topical CBD product into skin affected by psoriasis is the most direct way to treat the condition with cannabidiol. This allows the CBD to easily enter the wealth of CB2 receptors located in the skin, and can go a long way in regulating the production of skin cells.

 

For psoriasis patients looking to treat their condition at the root, a tincture, vape, or edible CBD treatment might be a great place to start. Many cannabis and hemp strains were created specifically for maximum CBD extraction, and the cannabidiol sourced from these plants can provide relief from psoriasis symptoms in any form.

 

Any CBD product you choose to use should be carefully researched prior to ingestion. Some companies may not use safe or ethical methods of extraction, and may use ingredients that aren’t optimal for human consumption. Make sure to properly vet any CBD company before using its products.

 

What Dosage Should You Use?

For psoriasis patients using topical remedies, there isn’t really a single suggested dosage for CBD use. Individuals with skin conditions are advised to rub the CBD-infused salve, balm, or lotion of their choice into the affected area. Since there is no way to overdose on CBD, treatment can be repeated as often as necessary.

 

For psoriasis sufferers who wish to prevent outbreaks in the first place, a tincture might be a good place to start. Each person’s tolerance for CBD can widely vary from that of another, so it’s best to tinker with dosage to find out what works best for you. For reference, a typical dose is usually somewhere between 10 and 20 mg of CBD for most people. Start low, and increase as needed in a week or two.

 

CBD For Psoriasis

CBD is a low risk, high reward way to soothe painful inflammation in skin and joints, and to keep your autoimmune system in check. Using CBD for psoriasis could be the natural treatment you need to feel comfortable in your own skin.

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