Have you been grappling with the challenges of psoriasis and finding it increasingly disheartening? If so, you’re not alone. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that unfortunately has no cure medically. Millions are suffering physically and emotionally with absolutely no hope.
However, there may be a ray of hope in the form of ‘CBD oil’. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the potential benefits of CBD oil for psoriasis. CBD has recently gained attention for its soothing properties and its potential to help symptoms and promote skin health.
So, if you’re looking for alternative solutions to alleviate the effects of psoriasis and regain control over your skin’s well-being, read on to discover the promising potential of CBD oil!
Understanding Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a condition caused by the malfunctioning of the immune system. It is when the body’s own immune system attacks healthy skin cells, triggering an accelerated production cycle. This leads to the accumulation of skin cells on the surface, resulting in the characteristic plaques and scales. Factors like genetics, immune system dysfunction, and environmental triggers play a role in this elaborated skin disease.
Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of the psoriasis skin condition, consisting of inflamed patches covered with silvery-white scales. Other types include guttate psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis. The severity and extent of psoriasis can vary from person to person, with some experiencing mild, localised patches while others face widespread involvement.
Managing psoriasis can be challenging due to its chronic nature and unpredictable flare-ups. The most common physical symptoms are:
- Itchiness
- Pain
- Discomfort
- Red, swollen skin
- Plaques
- Dry, thick skin
Additionally, the visible nature of psoriasis can lead to self-consciousness, social stigma, and reduced self-esteem. The condition’s chronicity and the need for long-term management further add to the burden faced by individuals with psoriasis.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil, short for cannabidiol oil, is a natural product derived from the cannabis plant. Specifically, CBD oil is typically extracted from hemp, a part of the cannabis plant that contains low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana.
CBD is known for its potential therapeutic properties and its ability to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various physiological processes.
CBD oil is available in various forms, including tinctures, topicals, capsules, and edibles. Tinctures are typically taken sublingually, topicals are applied directly to the skin, capsules are ingested orally, and edibles are consumed as food or beverages. Each form has its own advantages and may be chosen based on personal preference and desired effects.
CBD Oil for Psoriasis
CBD oil has shown promising potential in helping individuals with psoriasis manage their condition. The oil’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties can effectively reduce inflammation in psoriatic lesions, alleviating discomfort and redness. Additionally, CBD oil has been found to regulate the immune system, calming the overactive immune response commonly seen in psoriasis. Its moisturizing properties further aid in soothing irritated skin, while its analgesic and antipruritic effects provide relief from pain and itching. While more research is needed to fully understand its benefits, many individuals have reported positive outcomes with CBD oil as a natural remedy for psoriasis. As with any treatment, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD oil into a psoriasis management plan.
The Endocannabinoid System: How CBD Reacts in Your Body
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is our body’s own cannabinoid system which consists of complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids (natural compounds produced by the body) that plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and regulating various physiological processes. It is known to have a significant relationship with all types of skin and its conditions!
The ECS helps regulate inflammation, immune responses, and skin cell growth, all of which are relevant to Psoriasis. When there is an imbalance in the ECS, it can contribute to the development and progression of psoriasis symptoms.
CBD, one of the cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, interacts with the ECS and offers benefits for managing psoriasis symptoms. CBD indirectly influences the ECS by interacting with cannabinoid receptors, primarily CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors are found throughout the body, including the skin.
For psoriasis, CBD’s interaction with the ECS may help reduce the overactive immune response and excessive inflammation that contribute to the characteristic symptoms of the condition.
CBD also exhibits potential anti-proliferative effects on skin cells. In psoriasis, there is an abnormal acceleration of skin cell growth and turnover. CBD may help normalise this process by inhibiting the proliferation of keratinocytes (skin cells) and promoting a more balanced rate of cell production and shedding.
Furthermore, CBD’s potential anti-itch and analgesic properties may provide relief from the itching and discomfort associated with psoriasis. By interacting with receptors in the skin and influencing neural signalling, CBD can potentially alleviate itching and reduce pain sensations.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
CBD provides anti-inflammatory properties by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. CBD binds to cannabinoid receptors in the ECS, primarily CB2 receptors, which are found throughout the immune system, including in the skin. By activating these receptors, CBD may modulate immune responses and help reduce inflammation.
Scientifically, CBD has the potential to inhibit proinflammatory cytokines, molecules involved in the inflammatory response. By reducing the production of these cytokines, CBD also helps to mitigate the inflammatory processes occurring in the skin of individuals with psoriasis.
Additionally, CBD has been found to suppress the activation of immune cells, such as T-cells and dendritic cells, which are involved in the immune response and contribute to inflammation. By regulating immune cell activity, CBD may help restore balance and dampen the exaggerated immune response associated with psoriasis.
Moreover, CBD’s interaction with vanilloid receptors, specifically TRPV1 receptors, may contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects. Activation of these receptors has been linked to the regulation of inflammatory processes, and CBD’s influence on TRPV1 receptors may help reduce inflammation in the skin.
By reducing inflammation, CBD oil has the potential to alleviate symptoms commonly experienced in psoriasis, such as redness, swelling, and itching. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of CBD oil may vary among individuals, and the dosage differs. It is vital to check with a healthcare professional (link doctor) before administering CBD into your lifestyle.
Balancing the Immune System
Since Psoriasis is caused due to imbalances in the immune system, this is what cbd does to help that in the body:
- Interaction with cannabinoid receptors: CBD oil interacts with CB2 receptors in immune cells, modulating immune activity and promoting immune balance.
- Suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines: CBD oil has the potential to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to inflammation in psoriasis.
- Regulation of immune cell function: CBD oil influences the function of immune cells involved in psoriasis, such as T-cells and dendritic cells, helping to restore their normal function and prevent excessive activation.
- Normalisation of skin cell growth: CBD oil regulates the production of abnormal skin cells, promoting a more balanced rate of cell growth and turnover.
- Immunomodulatory effects: CBD oil exhibits immunomodulatory properties, helping to restore immune balance and prevent immune system dysfunction associated with psoriasis.
Choosing and Using CBD Oil
CBD oil is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most individuals. However, it’s advisable to choose high-quality CBD oil from reputable sources to ensure purity and potency, that’s why we recommend India Hemp Organics.
India Hemp Organics is a holistic wellness company that believes in sharing the healing powers of cannabis sativa.
Their hemp is grown locally in India and brought straight from the Himalayas’ foothills. All crops sourced for India Hemp Organics grow in a natural environment – untainted by harsh chemicals, artificial compounds, or pesticides. When it comes to their ingredients, they are as natural as nature can get!
Moisturizing and Skin Health
Apart from helping Psoriasis, CBD contains moisturising properties which helps maintain overall skin health. Here’s how!
- CBD Helps Regulate Sebum Production: CBD oil can help regulate sebum production, preventing excessive oiliness or dryness and promoting a more balanced complexion.
- CBD Contributes to Improved Skin Hydration: CBD oil contains essential fatty acids that help reinforce the skin’s natural moisture barrier, enhancing skin hydration and preventing moisture loss.
- CBD Provides Support for the Skin’s Natural Barrier Function: CBD oil’s antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties support the skin’s protective barrier, reducing the risk of irritants, allergens, and pathogens penetrating the skin.
- CBD Contains Soothing and Calming Properties: CBD oil’s potential anti-inflammatory effects can help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness, itching, and inflammation.
Conclusion
CBD oil holds promise as a natural remedy for managing psoriasis and other skin issues, offering potential benefits for long-term skin health. Its anti-inflammatory properties, immunomodulatory effects, and moisturising properties make it a versatile option for individuals seeking relief from the symptoms of psoriasis and improving overall skin wellness.
By reducing inflammation, CBD oil can alleviate redness, swelling, and itching associated with psoriasis. Its interaction with the endocannabinoid system helps restore immune balance, addressing the underlying immune dysfunction in psoriasis. Additionally, CBD oil’s moisturising properties contribute to improved skin hydration and can support the skin’s natural barrier function, helping to maintain a healthy and resilient complexion.
