What is eczema?
Eczema is a common skin condition where the skin becomes itchy, inflamed and sore and can even blister. There are several different types of eczema, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis and stasis dermatitis. The condition can affect people of any age and can affect adults even if they haven’t suffered from skin conditions as a child.
The most common symptoms of eczema are:
- Dry, itchy patches of skin
- Inflamed skin
- Sensitive skin
- Patchy areas of the body
- Swelling
- Oozing of the skin
- Rough skin patches
There is no cure for eczema, and it is often treated with over the counter creams and medications but in some cases, medication can also be prescribed by a doctor. Many sufferers struggle to find treatments that work best for them, and it can often be a long process trying to find the right treatment to help the symptoms. More and more people are beginning to turn to natural remedies to help treat or soothe their symptoms.
Read our article on how CBD can help other skin conditions here.
What is CBD?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol is a naturally occurring compound which is found in the resinous flower of cannabis. CBD and THC are the most well-known cannabinoids, however unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive and therefore does not give a “high”. Our bodies have an endocannabinoid system which means that the body has specific receptors, CB1 and CB2 which are designed to accept cannabinoids. Due to an increased popularity of CBD, there are many ways for CBD to be consumed, from vapes, to lotions, face masks, tinctures and even edibles.
CBD and Eczema
Whilst it’s not scientifically proven, CBD is known to be used by people to help soothe the symptoms of eczema. The endocannabinoid system in the body could potentially be critical in helping to regulate the epidermal barrier functioning, which is a defensive function of the skin.
CBD is also very well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Due to inflammation being a common, painful symptom of eczema, the use of products such as CBD cream, oil and moisturisers may potentially be beneficial at taking down the swelling and inflammation on the skin caused by eczema. Additionally, in doing so it can result in the skin feeling less irritated and exposed, therefore reducing the itchiness.
As well as its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD also has anti-itch qualities. By reducing the itchiness of the eczema, the skin is less likely to then become irritated and swollen, therefore reducing the overall symptoms of the condition. Whilst using CBD products like bath bombs could help cover a wider area of skin, moisturisers and oils may also help further by hydrating the skin which then helps to ease the dryness and flakiness of the skin which again, results in further itching and irritation.
Overall, despite the lack of medical research regarding CBD, there have been many testimonials to suggest that using CBD as a natural remedy to soothe ailments is becoming increasingly popular. The effects of natural treatments as opposed to medical treatments are being researched and tried out every day by millennials, looking for a natural alternative.