Psoriasis is a skin disorder that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, resulting in scale-like patches. Individuals with psoriasis may also develop psoriatic arthritis. A condition characterized by sore and inflamed joints. It is an autoimmune disease which means that part of the body’s immune system becomes overactive and attacks normal tissues. According to research, this condition may be hereditary but patients with no family history of psoriasis may still be susceptible. So why some people are prone to this disease is still unknown.
Although there is no cure for psoriasis, some treatments may help manage its symptoms, like using CBD hemp oil. Cannabidiol, or simply CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It also supports the immune system. These, together with other health benefits that CBD offers are the reason why a lot of people are turning to hemp oil for psoriasis.
Symptoms
Each individual may experience different symptoms but the most common signs are dry and red patches of skin covered with silvery scales. The lesions can appear anywhere on the body. It can also cause dents and discoloration of the nails. Some may also get small, drop-shaped sores on the scalp, legs, arms, and chest.
Some people with rare types of psoriasis may experience pus-filled blisters or a red, peeling rash that itches or burns intensely. Additionally, those with psoriatic arthritis experience swollen and severe pain in their joints.
Causes
The cause of psoriasis is unknown but studies show that it can be passed on through genes. People with this condition have an immune system that easily reacts to triggers like infections or severe stress. An unhealthy lifestyle such as smoking and excessive alcohol intake may also cause flare-ups and worsen psoriasis.
It is also important to take note that some medications may trigger or cause psoriasis to become more severe. These medications include beta-blockers, lithium, synthetic antimalarial, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and tetracyclines.
Treatments
If you think you have psoriasis, make sure to consult your doctor. It is a non-curable disease but many treatments can help manage your symptoms.
Moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, vitamin D analogue creams, calcineurin inhibitors, coal tar, and dithranol are just some of the treatments if you have mild psoriasis. But if your psoriasis needs stronger treatment, you may be prescribed oral or injected medicines.
Adapting a healthier lifestyle is also needed if you want to manage its symptoms. Quit smoking, limit how much alcohol you consume, eat a well-balanced diet, exercise regularly, and take steps to reduce stress are just some of the things you can do to take back control of your life.
Hemp Oil for Psoriasis
Both hemp and marijuana plants are from the same species. Hemp is a cannabis plant that contains 0.3 percent or less THC, while marijuana contains more than 0.3 percent THC. Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC is the chemical compound in cannabis that produce the plant’s psychoactive effects or the “high” sensation.
Cannabidiol or simply, CBD can be derived from both hemp and marijuana plants. But CBD that comes from the hemp plant is getting more recognition because of its non-psychoactive effects. So how does CBD help with psoriasis?
When CBD enters your body, it binds with several receptors (CB1 and CB2) from the endocannabinoid system. These receptors affect pain, itch, and inflammation.
The CB2 receptors help regulate our immune system and CBD supports these receptors. It activates signals in your body that make the cells that cause inflammation change and subside.
According to studies, CBD can also stimulate the secretion and recruitment of cells which are important to remove skin cell debris and allow your skin to mature and heal properly.
You can take CBD in different ways. It is available in the form of oil, capsule, gummy, vaporizers, and topicals such as gels and facemasks. There is much positive feedback from users with first-hand experience of using CBD hemp oil for psoriasis. But more research and studies are needed to fully understand and prove its efficacy.
