There are many established conditions that Cannabinoids (mostly CBD) may help with, from anxiety and depression symptoms, to pain and inflammation, and more. The science is very strong in these areas. Another area that is very important but may not get the same attention quite yet is the effect of cannabinoids on skin conditions, like Pruritus (itching). Yes, ‘itching’ conditions and other skin problems may show to respond well to CBD and other cannabinoids and this is very important news!
A commentary review by Jessica Mounessa et al, titled The Role of Cannabinoids in Dermatology, published by the American Academy of Dermatology in July 2017, details how cannabinoids can help with a myriad of skin conditions, from simply itchy skin to skin cancer.
A study has shown that pruritus (itchy skin) can be reduced by about 86% with a topical solution. The main ingredient used was palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), that has been shown to stimulate the body’s endocannabinoids (such as anandamide). The anandamide then activates the CB1 receptor. CBD works in a similar fashion by reducing the enzymes that eat away at our endocannabinoids (FAAH and MAGL) so that our body can better regulate endocannabinoid levels.
Skin irritation is also inflammatory in nature. As is already known with systemic and localized inflammation, cannabinoids help reduce inflammation. In this commentary piece, it’s noted that both ‘allergic contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis’ are helped by cannabinoids.
Cannabinoids, such as CBD, have been shown to inhibit skin rashes and this might be useful for those with psoriasis. CBD has also been shown in studies to have positive effects on inflammation of the skin. A study in 2015 showed that a topical cannabis seed extract cream helped to lower acne and oil on the face. We already know that CBD has an antitumor effect and this also translates to skin cancers such as melanoma. Activating CB1 and CB2 receptors help to prevent growth and vascularization of malignant tumors. CBD helps to lower the enzymes your body produces (FAAH and MAGL) that effectively eat away at your own endocannabinoids, allowing your body to use those endocannabinoids to activate the CB1 and CB2 receptors.
Eczema and Pruritus, two very common and uncomfortable skin inflammatory reactions, have been shown to respond well to cannabinoid treatment. This opens up the door for dermatologists to recommend topical CBD oils and creams/lotions to help with such conditions. At Noetic Nutraceuticals, we think it is important to take oral CBD as well as applying it topically. Whereas topical application affects the area in a very direct fashion, oral consumption of a CBD tincture will affect the body as a whole and help activate CB1 and CB2 receptors, giving you optimal endocannabinoid effect.
The use of cannabinoids for many skin conditions is becoming more and more well documented. This is a huge benefit for those searching for ways to combat different skin problems while minimizing potential side effects. Unlike medications, which tend to come with a lot of potential side effect issues, CBD has virtually none that we’ve learned about thus far. Be sure to use a CBD product that is lab tested and has what it claims as 1/4 products on the market do not.
Thank you for living the NN lifestyle!
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