Eczema is a recurring, long-term skin inflammation characterized by scaling of the skin, extreme dryness, crusting and swelling. Typically, eczema occurs in the feet, hands, and face, as well as other parts of the body where perspiration accumulates. Described by patients as intolerable, the discomfort and itchiness caused by eczema are severe.
When the affected area is scratched, it produces little or no satisfaction; actually, it makes it worse. The level of pain significantly increases, and the skin becomes raw. Basically, the common symptoms of eczema are:
- A rough appearance of the skin
- Itching
- Scaly, raw, or thickened skin.
- Red bumps may drain, ooze, or crust.
- A burning sensation or pain
- Inflammation
- Rash and cuts
Causes of eczema
The causes of the disorder are not clear and defined. There are environmental and genetic factors that can trigger eczema. Generally, it is acknowledged that the causes of eczema are entrenched in the human immune system. Basically, a compromised or weakened immune system is likely to cause some sort of reaction in the skin, which in turn results in eczema. That said, exposure to certain deodorants, washing powders and soaps can also trigger the condition.
Where an individual is allergic to some foodstuffs such as dairy products, nuts, and eggs, their intake can flare-up an eczema breakout. Changes in humidity perspiration have also been said to cause eczema.
Treatment of eczema
There is no acknowledged cure for this condition. Some children who suffer from allergy-related eczema are lucky enough to outgrow it; however, this is not guaranteed. In most cases, the patient will live with the disorder for their whole life. Treatments and medications are not aimed at getting rid of eczema but rather at thwarting outbreaks and lessening the effects in case an outbreak occurs.
Treatments are topical and are intended for external use only. Whilst they do offer some form of relief, there is a possibility for lasting side effects such as skin discoloration, thinning of the skin, and the potential for infection.
The case for eczema and CBD oil
CBD oil is usually a marijuana extract. Surprisingly, it is not made from tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the most renowned marijuana extract which is linked to addiction and feelings of altered reality (highs). In other words, CBD is not habit-forming and does not make you high.
The use of CBD oil as a form of treatment is being preferred as a practical option in place of conventional treatment. One of the factors that have made CBD oil to be widely embraced as a viable alternative treatment is the growing body of research that demonstrates its remarkable and numerous healing capabilities. Another factor that has made CBD oil to gain traction as a treatment method is the fact that it has fewer side effects when compared to conventional medicines.
Benefits of treating eczema with CBD oil
- CBD is an anti-inflammatory – The anti-inflammatory abilities of CBD oil presents much-needed relief to a patient since eczema is usually an inflammatory response to an allergy or irritant.
- CBD oil can reduce pain – The natural anti-inflammatory synonymous with CBD oil is able to alleviate pain experienced by eczema patients.
- CBD can reduce itching – Besides the pain experienced by eczema patients, the itching also causes a lot of discomfort. Preliminary research has been conducted where CBD oil was applied to patients that had itchy skin. A lot of patients shown a major drop in the levels of irritation and itchiness they were experiencing. Trials and research are, however, ongoing.
- CBD has immunosuppressant properties – The immunosuppressant abilities of CBD oil can be handy in curtailing the immune system reaction to eczema; and in so doing, reducing the amount of inflammation.
- CBD reduces stress – When the body experiences some kind of stress, the immune system responds with an inflammatory response that can aggravate or flare-up an eczema breakout. CBD properties that allay anxiety and stress can prevent such inflammatory reactions.
The potential abilities of CBD are limitless and are yet to be fully tapped. However, its use in treating skin disorders such as eczema is well-documented and supported. That said, as with any medication, it is prudent to approach a CBD oil expert or a doctor to ensure that the right product and dosage is administered to manage your condition optimally.
