The Leaf THE LEAF March-April 2019 | Page 20

Psoriasis is No Match for Cannabis By Emily Robertson (Rx Leaf) Cannabis treats all of the symptoms of psoriasis, including depression and anxiety. Psoriasis is a persistent and painful skin condition that results in raised, inflamed lesions that can also be extremely itchy. Recent studies show that cannabis actively combats psoriasis by reducing discomfort and treating all symptoms. As an anti-inflammatory, pain reliever, and skin cell growth reducer, cannabis is an important aid in stopping psoriasis in its tracks. Psoriasis occurs when the body produces new skin cells too quickly. These cells appear as scaly red patches, and cause the patient pain, itchiness, and discomfort. It’s a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the mind and body, as studies have repeatedly shown. Skin Cell Growth Reduction If something could slow the production of new skin cells, psoriasis would be effectively combated. Luckily, something can: cannabis. A 2013 study demonstrated that signalling through the CB1 receptor can effectively slow the production of the body’s most common skin cell type – the epidermal keratinocytes. Cannabinoids, such as THC, bind to the CB1 receptor, leading to the body response of reduced skin cell growth and thus the prevention of outbreaks of psoriasis. What is Psoriasis? While to those on the outside, psoriasis may just look like a severe form of eczema, this condition is more all-encompassing than that. In fact, unchecked psoriasis can lead to joint damage. In addition, those suffering, have a 39% higher likelihood of depression and 31% increase in the risk of developing clinical anxiety over those that do not have psoriasis. Anti-inflammatory Properties of Cannabis Psoriasis sufferers understand inflammation. Fortunately, so does cannabis. Cannabis has been proven time and time again to reduce inflammation. The anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis can be used to treat redness and itchiness caused by psoriasis, and therefore significantly reduce the discomfort of psoriasis patients.