People have become more accepting of marijuana in recent years as it is now legal in 14 states. Studies have shown that the human body produces compounds that are similar to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the active ingredient in marijuana. These compounds called endocannabinoids are said to be important in maintaining healthy skin. Could we be seeing more marijuana in our skin care regimen?
"This research shows that we may have something in common with the marijuana plant," said Gerald Weissmann, MD. "Just as THC is believed to protect the marijuana plants from pathogens, our own cannabinoids may be necessary for us to maintain healthy skin and to protect us from pathogens." THC protects the hemp plant from pathogens and like the plant our body produces cannabinoids for protection and is important to lipid production. This could be helpful in dealing with skin problems such as acne and dry itchy skin that are associated with sebaceous gland imbalances.
Before the 1930’s, hemp plant was known as a popular and everyday remedy to fight inflammation. Because of the intoxicating effect of THC on the body, the plant was removed from chemist’s shelves. It’s now known that marijuana can be absorbed through the skin. Cannabis creams to treat rashes and eczema are already available through marijuana dispensaries. But it may be a while before we see cannabis creams on shelves. “These creams could work,” says dermatologist Doris Day. “But we need more efficacy and safety data before we can recommend them.”
For further reading, check out How /Human-cannabis-could-improve-skin-care
