I developed psoriasis shortly after my second child was born.
I’ve suffered from the condition for nearly thirty years now.
Because there is no definite cause, I can’t be sure if I came down with it due to heredity or stress. There is also no known cure for it. I have psoriasis on my knees and elbows. The disease causes the skin cells to regenerate too quickly and results in a scaly-like build-up that can get itchy and sore. It’s often embarrassing and painful. When I was first diagnosed with psoriasis, I spent a fortune on prescription medication that provided little relief. Even the ointments that helped alleviate the symptoms only worked for a limited time. The psoriasis would quickly build up an immunity and come right back. I eventually gave up on the expensive prescriptions and tried a combination of home remedies and over-the-counter options. Nothing much worked, and I’d give up hope by the time cannabis was legalized in my state. When I read about patients having success treating psoriasis with cannabis, I was anxious to visit the dispensary. The budtender I consulted it with was super knowledgeable and helpful. He suggested a variety of cannabis-infused topicals such as salves, lotions, balms, sprays, ointments and roll-ons. He explained that cannabinoids in the topicals, including CBD, CBN and THC interact with natural endocannabinoid receptors found in the skin to provide soothing relief. Despite the levels of THC, cannabis-infused topicals are non-psychoactive. They absorb quickly and can be applied multiple times per day. Most of these products are infused with essential oils such as lavender and eucalyptus, so they don’t smell like medicine.