Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the appearance of red patches covered with silvery-white scales, which can cause itching, discomfort, and even pain. While there is no treatment that completely cures psoriasis, there are numerous therapeutic options that can relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients. One of these potential treatments is CBD oil.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease characterized by an accelerated growth of skin cells. Normally, skin cells regenerate every 28-30 days, but in the case of psoriasis, this process occurs in only 3-4 days. This rapid growth of skin cells leads to their accumulation on the skin's surface, forming the characteristic plaques of psoriasis.
There are several types of psoriasis, each with its own distinctive characteristics. Plaque psoriasis is the most common type, accounting for about 80% of cases. Other types include guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis. Each type of psoriasis can have a different impact on a patient's life, and treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the disease.
Causes and symptoms
The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is believed to be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The immune system plays an important role in the development of psoriasis, as it mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells.
Symptoms of psoriasis can vary from person to person, but the most common include:
- Red, inflamed spots covered with silvery-white scales
- Itching, burning, or pain in the affected skin
- Dry and cracked skin, which may bleed
- Thickening, yellowing, or separating nails
- Stiff and painful joints (in the case of arthropathic psoriasis)
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The role of CBD oil in treating psoriasis
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound extracted from the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a "high" feeling.
CBD oil interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which is involved in regulating a variety of functions, including the immune response, inflammation, and pain. Studies have shown that CBD has anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and analgesic properties, making it a potential treatment for psoriasis.
CBD oil can be applied topically to areas affected by psoriasis, or taken orally. Researchers claim that CBD oil may offer several health benefits, including:
- Reducing inflammation: Studies suggest that CBD oil has anti-inflammatory effects on the body, which is essential in the treatment of psoriasis to reduce pain and scaling.
- Slowing down cell multiplication: In people with psoriasis, skin cells reproduce too quickly. CBD oil can influence cell growth and reduce their accumulation on the skin's surface.
- Pain management: CBD oil can relieve pain and reduce the use of opioid medications. It helps people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis manage pain and discomfort.
- Itching reduction: CBD oil may relieve itching associated with certain skin conditions, including psoriasis. A 2017 study noted that a cream containing palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), which affects type 1 cannabinoid receptors, reduced itching in people with lichen simplex and pruritus.
- Wound healing: One of the most bothersome symptoms of psoriasis is the cracking and subsequent bleeding of the affected areas. CBD oil treatments, due to its anti-inflammatory effects, can help with wound healing.
How is CBD oil administered to treat psoriasis?
The administration of cannabidiol (CBD) oil in the treatment of psoriasis is carried out through two routes: topical and oral.
Topical administration
- Preparation of the affected area: it is recommended to gently cleanse the skin with water and a non-irritating soap, followed by patting dry.
- Applying CBD oil: Distribute an appropriate amount of CBD oil onto your fingertips and gently massage the affected area until completely absorbed.
- Frequency of application: the procedure can be repeated 2-3 times a day, or as directed by the specialist.
Oral administration
- Compliance with the dosage: it is important to follow the instructions on the product label or the recommendations of the attending physician.
- Capsules: Swallow the capsules whole with a glass of water.
- Sublingual drops: administer the recommended number of drops sublingually, holding them for 60-90 seconds before swallowing.
