The Potential Benefits of CBD in Psoriasis Therapy

If you're struggling with psoriasis, you're likely all too familiar with the red, itchy, and scaly patches that can be both painful and difficult to manage. While treatments like creams, phototherapy, and medications are available, they don't always provide the relief you're looking for – and sometimes come with unwanted side effects. That's where cannabidiol (CBD), a natural compound that can be extracted from the Cannabis sativa or hemp plant, comes in. The small but mighty cannabinoid is showing real promise for managing psoriasis symptoms. Sounds too good to be true? Keep reading to learn more!

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes a quicker skin cell turnover - leading to thick, inflamed patches of skin. The condition can also cause painful itching and irritation. And to make things worse, people with psoriasis are also at a higher risk of developing psoriatic arthritis, a condition that affects the joints and leads to swelling, pain, and stiffness.

Common treatments for psoriasis include topical creams with active ingredients, phototherapy, and even medications that suppress the immune system. However, many of these interventions come with side effects, and the search for alternative treatments continues.

How CBD May Help with Psoriasis

CBD is a cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis plants. It has gained attention for its potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation, pain, and skin irritation. Unlike THC, another cannabinoid, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t get you "high".

According to research, CBD may help treat psoriasis by interacting with the human body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). This complex network plays a role in regulating a lot of processes like immune responses, inflammation, and skin health. It consists of receptors located throughout the body, including in the skin.

1. CBD and Inflammation: Inflammation is one of the key symptoms of psoriasis. CBD may help by reducing the production of so-called "pro-inflammatory cytokines" - proteins that trigger inflammation in the skin and joints. By reducing inflammation, CBD could potentially help with psoriasis flare-ups and ease the discomfort associated with the condition.
   
   
2. Reducing the build-up of skin cells: One of the main issues with psoriasis is that your skin produces too many cells too quickly, leading to the scaly patches. Early studies show that CBD may help slow down this process by working with certain receptors in your skin. This could help reduce the formation of those dry, flaky areas that are all too common with psoriasis.
   
   
3. Hydration and Skin Barrier Support: Psoriasis often leads to dry, cracked skin. CBD creams and ointments might help by providing hydration and supporting the skin's natural barrier. The well-studied antioxidant properties of CBD may also help reduce oxidative stress, another factor that worsens skin conditions like psoriasis.
   
   
4. Relieving pain and itching: Treatment of psoriasis often includes addressing severe itching and discomfort, especially on the scalp. CBD creams and other products may help ease these symptoms by working with certain receptors in the skin that are responsible for feelings of pain and itch.
   
   

CBD in Psoriasis Treatment: Clinical Studies

Research on CBD for treating psoriasis is still in its early stages, but the findings so far are promising. Several studies have shown that CBD creams can significantly reduce the size and severity of psoriatic plaques (the raised, inflamed patches of skin), while also improving skin hydration. This is crucial for managing the dryness and irritation that comes with psoriasis.

Scientists believe that CBD works by reducing inflammatory responses in the skin. By interacting with key receptors, CBD helps to balance the immune system, potentially preventing the overproduction of skin cells and calming inflammation. One of the most exciting aspects of CBD is its potential as a complementary treatment. People with psoriasis can use CBD alongside their current treatments to enhance results and manage symptoms more effectively and without additional side effects.

Additionally, studies suggest that CBD could benefit those with psoriatic arthritis by reducing inflammation and supporting joint health, making it a promising option for those suffering from both skin and joint symptoms of psoriatic disease.

Topical CBD for Psoriasis: How to Use It

If you suffer from psoriasis, you might want to try topical CBD products, such as creams and ointments, to help manage symptoms. These products can be applied directly to the affected areas of skin and are designed to deliver CBD without entering the bloodstream, which means they will only show localised effects.

Here’s how to apply a CBD oil or cream for psoriasis:

1. Cleanse the skin gently before applying the CBD product.
2. Apply a small amount of the product to the affected area.
3. Massage it into the skin until fully absorbed.
4. Apply the product regularly, as consistency is key for managing psoriasis symptoms and it might take a few days for first results to show.

For best results, look for products that contain other soothing ingredients, such as jojoba oil or shea butter, which can help nourish the skin. Everyone's reaction to CBD is different, so finding the right dosage and application frequency might require some time - it's best to ask your dermatologist for additional guidance.

Can CBD Be a Long-Term Treatment for Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic illness, and while it seems like CBD could help alleviate symptoms, it’s important to remember that more research is still needed. CBD treatment can be part of a psoriasis management plan, but it’s not a cure. Always consult with your dermatologist before starting any new treatment, especially if you’re already using prescription medications for psoriasis or other conditions.

Conclusion

In summary, the potential benefits of CBD in treating psoriasis are becoming clearer as more research emerges. By reducing inflammation, supporting the skin barrier, and providing relief from itching and discomfort, CBD may offer a natural way to manage psoriasis symptoms. If you’re looking to supplement your traditional psoriasis treatments, trying CBD could be a great option to consider.

Whether you’re using CBD oil, topical creams, or other CBD products, the key is finding what works best for your skin and health needs. Always choose high-quality, well-reviewed CBD products like the ones from Harmony to ensure you’re getting the most benefit.

Sources

[1] Stanescu AMA, Bejan GC, Balta MD, Andronic O, Toma C, Busnatu S. The Perspective of Cannabidiol in Psoriasis Therapy. Psoriasis (Auckl). 2024 Jun 19;14:51-61.