Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of at least 113 compounds in the cannabis plant, known as cannabinoids. The body naturally produces its own cannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind with CB1 and CB2 receptors in our endocannabinoid system, a network of neurons found in the brain and throughout the body. These endocannabinoids are responsible for regulating equilibrium and a multitude of internal functions that includes sleep, appetite, mood, hormones, immune system, fertility, reproductivity, pain sensation, memory, etc. These functions are disrupted when our endocannabinoid system cannot naturally produce enough cannabinoids needed due to stress, poor diet, disease, environmental pollutants or simply getting older. This is why phytocannabinoids such as CBD supplements are helpful in improving the body's functionality by providing an extra needed boost.
A large portion of these cannabinoid receptors are found in the skin, which is why our CBD infused skincare products and its high content of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help to shorten breakouts, reverse free radical damage while providing protection from sun and blue light radiation. But it is when used together with our concentrated CBD sublingual supplement that enable a powerhouse combo of anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties to empower the skin's own regeneration process. While you may see results quickly, consistent use is the best prevention.
In case you wanted to nerd out a bit, here is some of the latest research on the possible therapeutic uses of CBD:
Acne (All types)
Acne is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that causes spots and pimples, usually on the face, shoulders, back, neck, chest, and upper arms. The condition is caused, in part, by inflammation and overworked sebaceous glands that overproduce sebum leading to acne.
A 2014 study published by the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that CBD helps to lower the production of sebum, partly because of its anti-inflammatory effect on the body.
For more details on our recommended remedies, refer to our Acne Treatment.
Anti-Aging
Scientific studies are beginning to show that CBD may actually be a more powerful antioxidant than both vitamins C and E. One of these studies released in 1998 by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America stated that "cannabidiol was more protective against glutamate neurotoxicity than either ascorbate or α-tocopherol, indicating it to be a potent antioxidant".
Antioxidants help to halt the aging process by reducing free-radicals and the damage that they can do to the skin. Free radicals cause collagen to break down faster, so ultimately antioxidants are also helping to slow down the process of collagen loss, keeping skin looking more youthful, firm and strong, even over time.
The lack of the skin's ability to produce as much oil from its tiny glands is also a part of why it becomes dry and fragile with age, causing fine lines and wrinkles to become more noticeable and apparent. A study released in 2008, though, actually expressed a connection between endocannabinoids and oil excretion in sebaceous glands.
Apparently, these endocannabinoids are partially responsible for this oil production, which is why some evidence also suggests that cannabinoids are helpful for managing dry skin, even on a serious medical level such as in the form of psoriasis or eczema. It is possible that this connection explains why CBD can benefit aging skin, and help it to look more youthful and naturally refreshed.
For more details on our recommended anti-aging remedies, refer to our Anti-Aging Treatment.
Psoriasis / Eczema
According to research doctors J.D. Wilkinson and E.M. Williamson in an article published for the Journal of Dermatological Science, cannabinoids like CBD can inhibit keratinocyte proliferation, which is a central contributing factor to chronic skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
CBD oil for psoriasis has been emerging as a potentially viable treatment option due to its anti-inflammatory properties, its role as an autoimmune regulator, and its influence on whole-body homeostasis. And additionally, while specific research on CBD for psoriasis has been limited, results of several studies that have been done have been more than promising, with one, in particular, showcasing a definitive role of the endocannabinoid system in regulating cutaneous (skin) cell growth and differentiation.
Studies like this have effectively showcased CBD's potential to influence, manipulate, and ultimately correct both the underlying conditions of psoriasis and the onslaught of symptoms and medical side effects.
For more details on our recommended Psoriasis & Eczema remedies, refer to our Psoriasis/Eczema Treatment.
Arthritis
A study published in 2016 that investigated the effects of CBD on rats with arthritis, showed that the application of a CBD topical significantly reduced joint swelling. Their study concluded that topical CBD application was a successful treatment for arthritis pain, as well as for general inflammation — all without any evident side effects.
For more details on our recommended Arthritis remedies, refer to our Arthritis Treatment.
Chronic Pain
A 2017 article published by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine conducted a study in which the results concluded, "In adults with chronic pain, patients who were treated with cannabis or cannabinoids are more likely to experience a clinically significant reduction in pain symptoms." Massaging either our Extra Strength Wonder Balm or Massage Oil on affected areas, especially the lower back and joints have provided immediate localized pain relief. Pair with the Sublingual Oil to internally fight the pain-inducing inflammation.
For more details on our recommended Chronic Pain remedies, refer to our Chronic Pain Treatment.