Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by the rapid build-up of cells on the surface of the skin, which can result in red, scaly patches and lesions. While there is currently no cure for psoriasis, a number of treatments are available to help manage the symptoms, including topical creams and ointments, light therapy, and medications.
CBD (cannabidiol), a compound found in the cannabis plant, has been gaining increasing attention as a potential treatment for psoriasis, and some studies have suggested that it may be effective in reducing the severity of the condition. Here is a closer look at the current research on CBD and psoriasis:
How does CBD work?
CBD is a cannabinoid, which means it interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors and neurotransmitters that play a role in a variety of physiological processes, including mood, memory, and pain. When CBD is consumed, it is thought to interact with these receptors in a way that helps to regulate these processes and reduce symptoms of various health conditions.
CBD has been shown to have a number of potential therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. These effects may be particularly relevant for psoriasis, as inflammation is thought to play a key role in the development of the condition, and stress and anxiety may exacerbate symptoms.
One area where CBD may be helpful is in the treatment of psoriasis, a chronic skin condition that causes cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin, resulting in red, scaly patches.
CBD for psoriasis: the evidence
There is some evidence to suggest that CBD may be effective in reducing inflammation and regulating the immune system, which are both key factors in the development of psoriasis. In a 2018 study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science, researchers found that CBD was able to reduce inflammation and increase the production of keratinocytes, a type of skin cell that is important for wound healing, in mice with psoriasis.
Additionally, a small clinical trial published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment in 2019 found that CBD oil was effective in reducing the severity of psoriasis in human subjects. The study involved 20 participants with mild to moderate psoriasis who were treated with CBD oil for eight weeks. At the end of the study, researchers found that CBD oil was able to significantly reduce the severity of psoriasis, as well as improve the participants' quality of life.
There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that CBD may be effective in reducing the severity of psoriasis symptoms.
Here are a few examples of the research in this area:
- A 2020 review of the existing literature on CBD and skin conditions found that CBD was associated with a significant reduction in inflammation and an improvement in skin barrier function in several studies of people with psoriasis.
- A 2021 study of people with psoriasis found that those who used a CBD-based cream experienced a significant improvement in symptoms, including a reduction in scaling, itching, and redness, compared to those who used a placebo cream.
- A 2020 study of mice with a form of psoriasis found that those treated with CBD had a significant reduction in inflammation and skin cell proliferation, compared to those that were not treated with CBD.
Overall, while the evidence for the effectiveness of CBD in the treatment of psoriasis is promising, it is still limited and more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action and to determine the most effective dosages and treatment regimens.
It is worth noting that CBD is just one of many potential treatment options for psoriasis, and the most appropriate treatment will depend on the individual's specific condition and needs.
