The Marvelous World of CBD: Mellowing Pain Relief and So Much More!

CBD for Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis Essential Information

CBD & Psoriasis What to Know

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is like the Robin to THC’s Batman. Both chemical compounds are found in marijuana or hemp, but while THC gives you that infamous “high,” CBD is all about mellowing out pain. It’s no wonder that CBD has taken the health and wellness sector by storm, with various forms available like creams, lotions, oils, vape pens, and even edibles like gummies or candies.

You’ve probably seen countless claims on the internet touting CBD as a natural treatment for a range of conditions, including pesky skin-related disorders like psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. But does it really live up to the hype? Well, let me introduce you to Jim Snedden.

Snedden, a charismatic 55-year-old, first noticed his legs were dry and itchy back in 2005. Soon, the itch spread to his hands, and he found himself waking up covered in blood from scratching at it. Ouch! In 2007, he moved to upstate New York and experienced a severe flare-up. After being diagnosed with psoriasis and then later with psoriatic arthritis, Snedden went through the wringer trying different treatments to manage his symptoms. But it was CBD that finally provided much-needed relief!

“I have days where I can’t pick things up. I’m dropping things all day because my fingers hurt really bad,” Snedden shares. For years, prescription opioids were his go-to for pain management, but they stopped being effective. That’s when his daughter, who also deals with fibromyalgia, suggested he give CBD a try. And boy, did it make a difference! Snedden cut out all the opioids from his treatment regimen and has never looked back.

Now, let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of CBD and its potential wonders for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Medical experts are cautiously optimistic. While research in humans is still lacking, there are some intriguing theories to support CBD’s benefits. Joel Gelfand, MD, a dermatology professor at the University of Pennsylvania, points out that although there’s no concrete proof of CBD’s efficacy for psoriasis, there’s definitely “enough mechanistic data” to suggest its potential.

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So how does CBD work its magic? When CBD enters your body, it interacts with receptors called endocannabinoids that influence pain, itch, and inflammation. Specifically, CBD binds with CB2 receptors found on immune cells, leading to a resolution of inflammation. In the case of psoriasis, CBD can stimulate the secretion and recruitment of cells that remove skin cell debris and promote proper healing.

In a recent study involving participants with psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (another skin-related disorder), applying a CBD ointment to affected skin twice daily for three months led to improved hydration, elasticity, and overall quality of life. Additionally, a 2020 study focusing on scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis found that a CBD-infused shampoo reduced itching, burning, and inflammation severity. Fascinating stuff!

Keep in mind that there’s still much to learn about CBD’s impact on our bodies. We’re only scratching the surface (pun intended) of our understanding of the endocannabinoid system. It’s also worth noting that not all CBD products are created equal. When it comes to topical products like creams, their absorption through the skin barrier may be limited. CBD’s lipophilic nature means it prefers fatty environments, and our skin’s top layer has plenty of that.

Now, let’s talk about potential risks. CBD studies so far haven’t yielded conclusive results, partly due to confusing government regulations and the lack of FDA oversight. Unregulated CBD products run the risk of inaccurately labeled ingredients, and they may even contain unknown or harmful elements. To make matters worse, CBD has been known to cause liver injury, interact with medications, and pose risks when mixed with alcohol or drugs. Animal studies have also suggested potential effects on fertility. So proceed with caution!

To equip you with the knowledge you need before delving into the CBD world, here are a few key considerations:

Things You Should Be Aware of Before You Try CBD

1. Consult Your Doctor

Before embarking on your CBD journey, have a chat with your doctor. They’re the experts who can guide you through any potential interactions with your current medications or health conditions. Remember, talking to your doctor is like getting the Bat-Signal for medical advice!

2. Do Your Homework

Research, research, research! Look into CBD, different brands, and various methods of delivery. The Department of Health medical cannabis program is a great resource to start with. With the abundance of unregulated products on the market, it pays to be well-informed.

3. Start Low and Slow

Finding the right CBD product and dosage for your needs may require a bit of trial and error. Start with a small amount and gradually increase until you achieve the desired effect. Jim Snedden’s lesson of starting with one drop and gradually increasing is a great example to follow.

4. Manage Your Expectations

CBD isn’t a magical cure-all. It’s more like a trusty sidekick that complements your primary treatments for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Remember that it may take time to see results, unlike the quick fix of an opioid or joint. Patience, dear reader!

5. Be Mindful of Potential Risks

As we’ve mentioned, CBD isn’t without its risks. Keep an eye out for any allergic reactions or side effects, and let your doctor know if anything feels amiss. And always remember, not all CBD products are created equal.

There you have it! CBD is indeed an intriguing superhero in the quest for relief from psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. However, it’s crucial to approach it with informed caution. Stay curious, consult your doctor, and embrace the world of CBD armed with knowledge. Best of luck in your own CBD journey, and may relief be on the horizon!

Have you tried CBD for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis? Share your experiences in the comments below!