Cannabis creams for itchy skin

A new study conducted by the University of Colorado and published in the «Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology" »shows that cannabinoids in the form of creams may help treat many skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis.".

Non-psychoactive and anti-inflammatory

These anti-inflammatory properties are believed to be behind the findings of the Dr. Dellavalle and his team : »The most promising role for cannabinoids may be in the treatment of itching.» The team of scientists examined a wide range of skin conditions. They sought to understand the effect of cannabis creams on the skin. Their focus was on psoriasis, severe itching, eczema, various forms of hives, and melanoma.

Twenty-one patients suffering from severe itching applied a cannabinoid cream twice a day for three weeks. Eight of them experienced complete relief from their itching.

In mice with melanoma—the deadliest form of skin cancer—researchers have observed a reduction in melanoma tumor growth following the application of a THC cream. However, Dr. Dellavalle prescribes this treatment only if other treatments have failed. Unfortunately, most of the tests conducted by the researchers were performed on mice. Dr. Dellavalle now hopes to conduct large-scale clinical trials on humans.

«These conditions cause a lot of problems for people and have a direct impact on their quality of life,» explains Dr. Dellavalle. «Treatments are currently being purchased online, and we need to educate dermatologists and patients about their potential uses.».

Cannabis-infused creams penetrate the skin until they reach the CB2 cannabinoid receptors. They require a sufficient local dosage to pass through the skin. The cannabinoids CBN and CBD are believed to penetrate the epidermis more easily than THC. This explains the existence of antioxidant creams made from hemp-derived CBD.

L’cannabis oil is also said to be effective for anti-inflammatory skin treatments, with topical application and no psychoactive effects. According to an article published in Sciencedaily In 2007, a few cases of contact eczema were reported following application of the cream. The reason cited was a dysfunction of the endocannabinoid system.