The summer season is now in full swing! And people are heading to the beach to soak up some sun and vitamin D. Unfortunately for psoriasis sufferers, psoriasis doesn’t really care about that.
Those red, scaly patches can show up any time of year, but they’re especially irritating when you just want to enjoy the warm weather. In fact, the hot weather can actually make psoriasis worse. So how do you manage your psoriasis during the summer?
One option is to use medical marijuana. Marijuana effectively treats many conditions, including pain, inflammation and even skin disorders. And while there is still some stigma attached to using marijuana, it is becoming more and more accepted as a legitimate treatment option.
This article will go over psoriasis and medical cannabis and how medical marijuana can help relieve the symptoms of psoriasis.
But First… What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that affects about two percent of the population. It is characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin that can be itchy and painful. Psoriasis is not contagious and there is no cure, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms.
Psoriasis and Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids that interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system. By interacting with this system, cannabinoids help reduce the symptoms of psoriasis.
One study found that cannabinoids were successfully stopping keratinocyte proliferation, which is one of the key processes involved in psoriasis. Another study found that cannabinoids were involved in fibrogenesis regulation, which is the production of scar tissue. Fibrogenesis is thought to play a role in the development of psoriasis, too.
Medical Cannabis Products for Psoriasis
There are a variety of medical cannabis products that treat psoriasis. These include:
- Creams and ointments: Topical cannabis products can be applied directly to the skin. These products are often effective in treating localized inflammation and itching.
- Edibles: Take cannabis-infused edibles orally. Edibles may take longer to take effect than other methods, but they can provide long-lasting relief.
- Tinctures: Cannabis tinctures are alcohol-based extracts that can be taken by mouth or added to food and drinks. Tinctures offer an easy way to dose cannabis and can be a discreet option for use in public.
- Capsules: Like edibles, take cannabis capsules orally. They offer a precise dose and can be a good option for those who don’t like the taste of cannabis.
- Smoking and vaporizing: These administration methods deliver THC directly to the brain and provide quick relief from symptoms. However, they may not be ideal for people with respiratory conditions such as asthma.
Conclusion
Psoriasis and medical cannabis are definitely interconnected. Medical cannabis is effective in reducing symptoms in a variety of skin conditions, including psoriasis. The anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects of cannabinoids may help control the overactive immune response that leads to the formation of psoriatic plaques. Cannabis can also help reduce stress and anxiety, which exacerbates psoriasis symptoms.
More research is needed to determine the most effective methods of using cannabis for treating psoriasis. However, vaporizing or consuming cannabis flower or concentrates may offer the quickest relief from symptoms. Topical application of cannabis-infused products may also be beneficial. Although absorption of it may be variable, meaning results may take longer to achieve.
Work with knowledgeable healthcare providers and cannabis specialists like Medwell Health and Wellness to find the best treatment option for you. Schedule an appointment for your medical marijuana certification today.

Aaron Bloom serves as the CEO, overseeing the mission and growth of DocMJ and Medwell Health and Wellness Centers. Aaron’s passion for improving patients’ lives comes from his background in health care. For more than 20 years, Aaron owned, operated, and represented traditional healthcare organizations. This experience created a passion for finding improved ways to relieve suffering. His goal as CEO is to work daily to relieve all patients who seek better health and wellness through the medicinal benefits of medical cannabis and evidence-based alternative medicines.