Could CBD Be Useful in the Treatment of Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that is estimated to affect more than 1 million people in the UK alone - a figure that is constantly on the rise. Despite being relatively common, psoriasis is still not fully understood, and effective treatments can be elusive for many treatments.

However, a growing body of evidence indicates that cannabidiol (CBD) may be beneficial in the management of psoriasis symptoms. So, let’s take a closer look at the causes and symptoms of psoriasis, and how CBD could be useful.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that is characterised by patches of inflamed, scaly skin. These patches most commonly appear on the scalp, elbows and knees, but can also affect other parts of the body. Worsening psoriasis symptoms may be linked to certain triggers, such as skin injury, throat infections, or the use of certain medications.

The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, however, it is believed to occur when the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to renew too quickly. As a result, new skin plaques dislodge the old, causing a build-up of flaky skin on the surface. Some scientists believe that psoriasis may be linked to a number of genetic and environmental factors.

There is no cure for psoriasis but there are several treatment options. These include topical creams and ointments as well as oral and intravenous medications, and light therapy. The exact treatment will depend on the type and severity of the condition and while conventional therapies are often effective at managing symptoms, many patients find that they are unable to provide adequate relief.

CBD and Psoriasis

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a common compound produced by the Cannabis Sativa plant. It is one of over 100 cannabis-specific compounds known as cannabinoids - and among the most well-known and studied. Established evidence indicates that CBD has a wide range of therapeutic properties that could make it useful in the treatment and management of many health conditions, including several skin disorders.

Cannabidiol interacts with receptors in the body known as cannabinoid receptors. These receptors make up part of the endocannabinoid system which, in turn, is expressed throughout the body’s central nervous and immune systems. Cannabinoid receptors are present in almost every part of the body - including the skin.

The endocannabinoid system is known to play a vital role in a number of the body’s processes, including mood, pain regulation, and immune function. This has led many researchers to theorise that cannabinoid receptors may be a suitable target for treatments of autoimmune skin diseases - particularly psoriasis.

Is there any evidence?

CBD has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties, both of which may be beneficial in the management of psoriasis. For example, the moisturising properties of CBD - which may be largely owed to the compound’s high fatty acid content - could be helpful in soothing dry, flakey skin. Furthermore, some evidence indicates that CBD may be beneficial in preventing oxidative stress, pruritis (itching), and pain - all of which can be linked to psoriasis.

Some research has also found that cannabinoids may be able to prevent the rapid reproduction of skin cells associated with psoriasis. Moreover, a recent clinical study of patients with the condition found that treatment with a CBD-based ointment was associated with a significant improvement in psoriatic symptoms.

Of course, as with many areas of CBD research, there remains a clear need for more clinical trials assessing the potential of CBD and other cannabinoids in the treatment of psoriasis.

Conclusions

Ongoing research continues to yield some promising findings concerning CBD and other cannabinoids. Indeed, we here at Honey Heaven are big fans of CBD (as well as a wide range of other hardworking natural ingredients) and their potential to give our general health and well-being a much-needed boost.

In recent years, commercial products containing CBD, including a number of topical formulations, have become increasingly available in the UK. These products should not be mistaken for medicinal products and are not intended to treat any health condition or ailment.

At Honey Heaven, we ensure all of our products are developed in line with UK regulations. Our CBD products are independently tested by third-party laboratories to ensure their quality and cannabinoid content, so you can rest easy that you are getting exactly what you pay for.

To learn more about our range of high-quality products, browse our range of CBD Skincare, CBD Oils, and CBD Honeys.