Cannabis and Skin Conditions
The Endocannabinoid System can be found within every cell
type produced by the skin. (Oddi 2016) Animal tests have shown that the primary
endocannabinoids, anandamide and 2-AG,
are produced in the skin at the same concentrations as found in the brain. (Khasabova 2012) Endocannabinoids regulate skin cells, including hair follicles, sebocytes, that
moisturize and protect the skin, sweat glands, melanocytes responsible for skin
pigment, keratinocytes that form the protective outer layer, and macrophages
that orchestrate the wound-healing process.
The endocannabinoid system appears to play a protective role
in reducing allergic inflammation of the skin. (Karsak 2007) The regulatory role played by
the endocannabinoid system within the nervous system and the immune system
ultimately may have a significant impact on skin diseases.
By modulating endocannabinoid function in the skin, cannabinoids
activate and inhibit inflammation, proliferation, itching and pain, immune
response, and skin repair.
Topical applications of THC or CBD has been shown to reduce
skin inflammation. (Klein 2005)
There is interest in the potential use of topical cannabis
in treating painful skin conditions and itching. (Scarampella 2001)
There is also research being conducted to examine whether cannabinoids
might be used to treat skin malignancies. (Perez-Gomez 2012)
The concentration of cannabinoids in most commercial
topicals is far below the level at which they should be expected to be effective.
Anecdotal accounts of cannabis oil extractions being directly applied with no
adverse effects support the tolerance of relatively high doses, since these
oils can exceed 70 percent THC in potency.
Using Cannabis to Help
Skin Conditions
It is best to talk to a trusted medical professional who
understands the endocannabinoid system and how cannabis works with your skin
condition.
Oral cannabis, such as CBD tinctures, is useful for the treatment of
general inflammatory response, even in the skin. THC taken orally seems to
reduce skin pain and itching.
Smoked and vaporized cannabis has a rapid uptake and is
useful for treatment of itching associated with a wide variety of skin
conditions, especially itching caused by liver disease. This form of medication
is not recommended for adolescent.
Topical THC/CBD treatments may be helpful for a wide range
of skin disorders, including dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, acne, excessive
hair growth, and some precancerous lesions. It is not known whether THC, CBD,
THC/CBD, or minor cannabinoids are most effective.
CBD, THC, and CBG varieties may be infused and used
topically. For itching, high-THC cultivars are effective.
Information about cannabis and skin conditions was taken from the amazing book Cannabis Pharmacy; The Practical Guide to Medical Marijuana by Michael Backes, Andrew Weil, M.D. and Jack McCue, M.D.
You can find this book here **
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