You may already know that psoriatic arthritis is a painful and chronic condition that develops from psoriasis. Currently, there is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, so treatment involves finding ways to mitigate the symptoms and effects of the condition through medication and lifestyle changes.
For many reasons, people are looking for alternatives to harsh medications to help manage psoriatic arthritis symptoms. One trend that is gaining momentum is the use of cannabinoids like CBD.
What is Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. This means that your body is actually attacking itself.
Usually, the immune system detects foreign cells such as bacteria and viruses. Once detected, antibodies are created to destroy the invader cells and protect your cells so they can continue doing their job.
If you suffer from an autoimmune disorder, your cells may mistakenly detect your joints or skin as foreign cells and send antibodies to attack. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that causes skin cells to rapidly multiply, leading to other problems including joint pain, inflammation, and fatigue.
Common Misconceptions About Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
Due to psoriasis presenting itself commonly on the skin, many people assume it is a skin condition and only cosmetic. However, psoriasis can trigger other conditions and complications to other bodily systems. This characteristic is called a "comorbidity".
Some other ailments that can arise from psoriasis include:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD)
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Insulin resistance
- Depression and anxiety
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Sleep apnea
Much is still unknown as to how likely any one comorbidity will occur, but since psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder, it has the potential to affect all body systems.
Finding ways to manage psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis symptoms can mean a world of difference to the quality of life for people living with these consitions.
How CBD Works Within the Body
When CBD enters the body, it triggers the endocannabinoid system to balance the internal systems throughout the body.
These systems help regulate:
- Sleep
- Mood
- Immune response
- Memory
- Pain
While there is still much to learn about how CBD works, many studies have shown promise in CBD’s ability to help manage pain. One particular study revealed that transdermal CBD gel helped reduce joint swelling and relieve arthritis pain and inflammation in rats— without side effects. Long-term human studies are needed, but current science points in favor of CBD to help manage painful inflammatory conditions.
Does CBD Get You High?
No, CBD will not get you high!
CBD is one of the many compounds found in the hemp plant. Its psychoactive cousin, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is derived from the cannabis sativa plant and is responsible for the euphoric effects commonly referred to as a “high”.
Although CBD can be found alongside THC in the cannabis plant, legal CBD is derived from the hemp plant and must contain less than 0.3% THC. Many hemp-derived CBD products contain zero THC, but even a small amount (less than 0.3%) won’t get you high.
How Do You Use CBD for Psoriatic Arthritis?
Due to the nature of psoriatic arthritis, many people use CBD in topical and oral forms.
Psoriasis commonly presents symptoms on the skin, so topical CBD application can help manage redness and irritation that results from the effects of psoriasis.
Oral administration is also popular because it allows for increased absorption into the body. This may also help support the body’s immune response. Make sure you’re using a high-quality, pure CBD isolate tincture.
Be sure to talk to your doctor about adding CBD to your symptom management plan.
CBD as an Alternative to Medication
It is well known that CBD can influence a variety of biological processes, including regulating the immune, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
In addition to the many functions the endocannabinoid system helps regulate, CBD has been shown to have positive effects on related functions. Because of this, CBD could potentially provide even more benefits, including:
- Improved mood
- Circulatory maintenance
- Immune system support
- Overall joint and muscle mobility
- Support of nutrient absorption
- Bolstered energy and performance
Is CBD Addictive?
People often favor CBD as an alternative to medications that may be addictive. Although it’s a relative of THC, CBD has not been shown to have addiction-related effects.
Is CBD Right for You?
Due to the nature of psoriatic arthritis, many people have found that managing their symptoms is an all-around battle. Diet, exercise, sleep, and stress can either trigger or mitigate symptom flare-ups. CBD can combat painful symptoms and support overall wellness.
Be sure to talk to your doctor about CBD before incorporating it into your routine.