Psoriasis is a relatively common, chronic, and non-contagious skin disease. It is cyclical, that is, it presents symptoms that disappear and reappear periodically. It is an autoinflammatory skin disease, which by genetic predisposition, along with environmental or behavioral factors. The disease manifests itself through the appearance of reddish lesions that peel off the skin. It is important to emphasize that psoriasis is not contagious and contact with patients does not need to be avoided.
Psoriasis affects about 1 million Canadians. The typical age of onset is between 30-39 years and 50-69 years but can occur at any age.
How CBD Works to Help Treat Psoriasis
CBD is a nonintoxicating cannabinoid (a compound found in cannabis and hemp) that has been studied for years for its medicinal properties.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the body which, among other functions, is involved in regulating inflammation, according to studies. The body continuously produces endocannabinoids, and CBD, as a similar cannabinoid, can bind to the same receptors.
It is known that certain cannabinoids bind to receptors in the human endocannabinoid system that are responsible for inflammation and can downregulate an inflammatory response. One endocannabinoid in particular, anandamide, can help inhibit the rapid growth of skin cells in the epidermis called keratinocytes, which is a key aspect of psoriasis.
Research points to the idea that CBD may help reduce inflammation and relieve overall joint pain and discomfort. According to disease scholars and researchers, CBD is a promising adjuvant or supplementary treatment that may help reduce plaques and improve the quality of life for those managing psoriatic disease, and in some cases reduce the discomfort caused by psoriatic arthritis.
CBD may also help relieve stress and anxiety. Studies show a strong relationship between psoriasis and anxiety and depression, with the relationship often causing a damaging cycle of flares caused by emotional stress and emotional stress being worsened by successive flare-ups.
In a study published in September 2020 in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, CBD was shown to decrease anxiety, which can trigger physical symptoms of psoriasis. Cannabinoids can have a positive effect on wound healing, and it’s possible if you improve someone’s skin disease, anxiety and frustration goes down overall.
How to Choose and Use CBD for Psoriasis
People who may be the best fit to try CBD for treating psoriasis are those who haven’t seen results with conventional therapies, have a fear of other invasive treatments, or are looking for a natural alternative or complement to conventional treatment.
Psoriasis can be challenging to treat because it can affect so many aspects of a person’s life. Newer targeted prescription therapies like biologics can be safe and clear the skin, but that doesn’t take away the lifestyle factors that can trigger psoriasis like anxiety and stress.
CBD comes in many forms — edibles, oils, ointments, tinctures, and more. Each has different potential physical and mental benefits that cater to individual needs in regard to the percentage of CBD, type of product, and frequency of use.
It’s crucial to note not all products marketed as CBD treatments are made of pure CBD, nor do all products accurately list their percentages and ingredients.
It’s important to make sure there are no impurities in what you buy and it is recommended to check the Department of Health website in your state that covers medical marijuana and cannabis to learn more about products and companies.
It is crucial to stress that while CBD has not been a cure-all, it’s become an important part of psoriasis treatment. What we suggest is always do your best to learn about your own body and approach treatment from a holistic, guided approach. We believe it is a variety of good choices, not just CBD, that’s fueling the ability to ward off flare-ups and heightened achiness.
At Gaia Hemp you will find both CBD oil and topical options such as cream and roll-on lip balm that are great choices to alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis.
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Still have questions?
At Gaia Hemp, we believe in the miracle healing power of herbs, as we personally have experienced the restorative medicinal benefits of CBD. We value transparency by offering the finest quality Canadian-grown hemp and cold-pressed CBD extracted with 100% purity. If you still have questions, do not hesitate to contact us today.
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