Potential benefits of cannabis for psoriasis:
Cannabis contains chemicals called cannabinoids. The human body also produces some cannabinoids naturally.
In the body, chemical messengers called endocannabinoids play a role in many functions, including:
- immunity
- inflammation
- appetite
- mood
- fertility
- eye pressure
When a person uses cannabis, the cannabinoids in the drug may affect some of these bodily functions.
Researchers believe that some cannabinoids may offer several possible health benefits. These include the following:
Reducing inflammation
Inflammation is a symptom of both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
A 2009 study found that some of the cannabinoids that occur in cannabis, including some forms of THC, could help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
In 2016, research suggested that some cannabinoids might benefit people with psoriasis by affecting the interaction between the body’s immune and nervous systems.
Slowing cell growth
In people with psoriasis, skin cells reproduce too quickly. Cannabinoids may slow the growth of skin cells and reduce their accumulation on the skin’s surface.
In 2007, a study found that the cannabinoids delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, cannabinol, and cannabigerol appeared to slow the growth of cells called keratinocytes in the outer layer of the skin. The researchers proposed that these substances could play a role in treating psoriasis.
A 2016 review supported the idea that cannabinoids may be a useful treatment for psoriasis.
Controlling pain
Cannabis may help to reduce pain. A 2015 article in JAMA noted that there is significant scientific evidence to indicate that cannabinoids can relieve pain.
This ability may mean that cannabis could help people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis to manage the pain and discomfort relating to this condition.
Conversely, in 2018, researchers in Australia found no link between cannabis use and a reduction in pain or lower use of opioids to control pain.
However, the participants were not taking specific cannabinoids for medical purposes. They all had prescriptions for opioids and were choosing to use cannabis alongside them to relieve pain, improve sleep, or relax.
Harnessing the power of cannabinoids as medication may produce benefits that are not apparent with recreational use.
Reducing itching
The cannabinoids in cannabis may relieve the itching that occurs with certain skin conditions, including psoriasis.
A 2017 review exploring the relevance of cannabis in dermatology noted that a cream containing palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), which affects cannabinoid type-1 receptors, appeared to reduce itching in people with prurigo, lichen simplex, and pruritus.
The authors suggested that cannabinoids could play a role in reducing itching.
Healing woundsOne of the most painful symptoms of psoriasis is the cracking and subsequent bleeding of the affected skin patches.
A 2016 study in mice found that cannabinoid receptors play a role in wound repair. Scientists have also identified some anti-inflammatory actions of cannabinoids.
In the future, treatments involving cannabinoids could help heal the open sores that psoriasis causes.
Psoriasis and mental health
Psoriasis is a long-term condition that currently has no known cure. Over time, it can have a negative impact on a person’s mental well-being.
Stress can be a trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. There are also links between psoriasis and depression, and between depression and inflammation more generally.
In 2017, researchers reported that a low dose of THC reduced stress in people undertaking a public speaking task. However, higher doses were likely to increase anxiety.
Risks and considerations
People should speak to a doctor before using cannabis for psoriasis.
It is critical to remember that cannabis is only legal in some states for both recreational and medical purposes. Approved medications containing cannabinoids may need a prescription.
Those who are interested in using cannabis for psoriasis should check the local laws in their area so that they can make an informed decision about whether or not to use it.
The best way to use cannabis to treat psoriasis is to apply it in the form of a tincture or oil to the affected skin.
Cannabis smoke releases skin-damaging chemicals into the air, which can aggravate skin conditions. It is also hard on the lungs and can slow down healing, so people with psoriasis should avoid the drug in this form.
Cannabis is also available as an inhaler or vaporizer. There is very little research on the safety of taking it in these forms, so it is best to use them with caution and only when a doctor advises.
Takeaway
Some of the ingredients in cannabis show promise as a treatment for psoriasis.
The positive effects of cannabinoids on the immune system and pain receptors mean that cannabis might provide relief from psoriasis symptoms. It is also possible that future medications may include some of the active ingredients in this drug.
As with any new treatment, people thinking of using cannabis to manage psoriasis should discuss their plans with their doctor. They should also refer to their local laws about cannabis and cannabinoid use.
It is important to remember that medicinal cannabis is a complementary treatment, which means that people should use it as part of a more comprehensive treatment plan.
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