Eczema is a chronic skin condition marked by red, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. For those seeking natural alternatives to traditional medications, cannabis cream emerges as a promising solution. This article explores how to make cannabis cream for eczema, dives into the art of crafting CBD salves, and shares a special recipe for a CBD anti-itch cream. Let’s get started on this soothing journey!
Benefits of Cannabis Cream for Eczema
Cannabis creams harness the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of cannabinoids like CBD, offering relief from the symptoms of eczema. Here’s how these creams can help:
Reduce Inflammation
Eczema is characterized by inflammation of the skin, leading to redness, swelling, and discomfort. Cannabis creams contain cannabinoids that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating inflammation. Specifically, CBD has been shown to modulate immune responses and inhibit inflammatory pathways.
- Mechanism: CBD binds to cannabinoid receptors in the skin, particularly CB2 receptors, which are involved in regulating immune function and inflammation. By activating these receptors, CBD helps to dampen the inflammatory response, thereby reducing redness and swelling associated with eczema;
- Clinical Evidence: Studies have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD on various skin conditions, including eczema. For instance, a 2019 review published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that CBD possesses significant anti-inflammatory properties, making it a promising candidate for treating inflammatory skin disorders like eczema.
Alleviate Itching
One of the most distressing symptoms of eczema is itching, which can exacerbate skin inflammation and lead to further irritation. Cannabis creams offer relief by soothing the skin and reducing the urge to scratch, thus promoting healing and preventing secondary infections.
- Calming Effect: CBD has been shown to exert a calming effect on irritated skin, providing relief from itching and discomfort. By interacting with sensory nerve fibers and neurotransmitter receptors in the skin, CBD helps to desensitize itch receptors and modulate itch signaling pathways;
- Hydrating Properties: In addition to its anti-itch properties, cannabis creams often contain moisturizing agents that help hydrate dry, eczematous skin. Ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, and hyaluronic acid form a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and promoting hydration.
Hydrate Skin
Proper hydration is essential for maintaining skin health, especially for individuals with eczema whose skin barrier function may be compromised. Cannabis creams not only alleviate inflammation and itching but also provide much-needed hydration to dry, flaky skin.
- Emollient Ingredients: Many cannabis creams are formulated with emollient ingredients that soften and smooth the skin, restoring its natural moisture balance. These ingredients help to repair the skin barrier, preventing water loss and enhancing skin barrier function;
- Long-Term Benefits: By keeping the skin adequately hydrated, cannabis creams can improve the overall health and resilience of the skin, reducing the frequency and severity of eczema flare-ups. Consistent use of moisturizing cannabis creams can lead to long-term improvements in skin texture and appearance.
Ingredients Needed
To create your own cannabis cream for eczema, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Description | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Cannabis-Infused Oil | The primary active ingredient in the cream, providing the beneficial cannabinoids derived from cannabis. | Choose between CBD oil or full-spectrum cannabis oil, depending on personal preference and legal considerations in your area. |
| Shea Butter | Known for its moisturizing properties, shea butter helps hydrate and soothe dry, irritated skin. | Aids in restoring moisture and improving the skin’s barrier function. |
| Coconut Oil | Contains natural antibacterial properties and acts as an effective moisturizer for the skin. | Helps to soften and hydrate the skin while providing additional antimicrobial benefits. |
| Beeswax | Serves as a thickening agent and helps solidify the cream, giving it a desirable consistency. | Enhances the texture of the cream and provides a protective barrier on the skin. |
| Essential Oils | Additional botanical extracts, such as lavender or tea tree oil, can be added to enhance the cream’s therapeutic properties. | Provides fragrance and potentially boosts the cream’s anti-inflammatory or soothing effects. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cannabis Cream
Creating your own cannabis-infused cream can be a rewarding DIY project, allowing you to customize the potency and ingredients according to your preferences. Follow this comprehensive guide to craft your own cannabis cream at home.
Step 1: Prepare Your Cannabis-Infused Oil
Before you can start making your cream, you’ll need to prepare cannabis-infused oil. This oil will serve as the base for your cream, providing the therapeutic properties of cannabis. Here’s how to do it:
- Decarboxylate your cannabis: Decarboxylation, a vital process in cannabis preparation, unlocks the full potential of cannabinoids like CBD and THC. To begin, preheat your oven to 245°F (118°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Break apart your cannabis buds and spread them evenly on the sheet. Then, bake the cannabis for 30-40 minutes. Through this procedure, the inactive THCA and CBDA are transformed into their active forms, THC and CBD, rendering your cannabis ready for various applications;
- Infuse the oil: After decarboxylating your cannabis, the next step is infusing it into a carrier oil, with coconut oil being a favored option for its rich fat content, aiding in cannabinoid extraction. Begin by combining the decarboxylated cannabis with coconut oil in a double boiler. Simmer the mixture over low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring intermittently. This gentle heating process facilitates the infusion of cannabinoids into the oil, ensuring a potent and versatile cannabis-infused product.
Step 2: Creating the Cream Base
With your cannabis-infused oil ready, you can proceed to create the base for your cream. The base ingredients provide the texture and consistency to your cream. Follow these steps:
- Melt the shea butter and beeswax: In a double boiler, melt together shea butter and beeswax until fully liquefied. Beeswax acts as a natural thickener, while shea butter adds moisturizing properties to the cream;
- Combine the oils: Once the shea butter and beeswax are melted, add the cannabis-infused oil to the mixture. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. This creates a uniform base for your cannabis cream.
Step 3: Final Touches
Now that you have your cream base ready, it’s time to add any optional ingredients for scent or additional therapeutic benefits. Follow these final steps:
- Add essential oils: If desired, enhance the aroma and therapeutic properties of your cannabis cream by adding a few drops of essential oils. Popular choices include lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus oil. Stir well to distribute the essential oils evenly throughout the mixture;
- Pour into containers: Once your cream mixture is fully prepared, carefully pour it into small jars or tins for storage. Allow the cream to cool and solidify before sealing the containers. Store your cannabis cream in a cool, dark place to preserve its potency.
Dosage and Measurements
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cannabis-infused oil | 1 cup |
| Shea butter | 1/2 cup |
| Coconut oil | 1/2 cup |
| Beeswax | 1/4 cup |
| Essential oils (optional) | 10-20 drops |
How to Use Cannabis Cream
Knowing how to properly use cannabis cream can maximize its effectiveness. Here’s a detailed guide on how to use cannabis cream:
Prepare Your Skin
Before applying cannabis cream, it’s important to prepare your skin to enhance absorption. Follow these steps:
- Cleanse: Wash the affected area with mild soap and water to remove any dirt, oil, or sweat. Pat dry with a clean towel;
- Exfoliate (optional): If you have rough or dry skin, consider exfoliating gently to remove dead skin cells and improve absorption. However, avoid harsh exfoliants that may irritate the skin;
- Wait for Skin to Dry: Allow your skin to air dry completely or gently pat it dry with a towel. Avoid applying cream to damp skin, as it may reduce absorption.
Apply the Cannabis Cream
Once your skin is prepared, apply the cannabis cream directly to the affected areas. Follow these steps for proper application:
- Amount: Dispense a small amount of cream onto your fingertips or palm. Start with a pea-sized amount and adjust as needed based on the size of the affected area;
- Massage: Gently massage the cream into the skin using circular motions. Ensure thorough coverage of the entire affected area;
- Absorption: Allow the cream to fully absorb into the skin before covering the area with clothing or bandages. This usually takes a few minutes;
- Frequency: Follow the product’s recommended usage instructions regarding frequency of application. Typically, cannabis cream can be applied 2-3 times daily or as needed for relief.
Timing
To optimize the benefits of cannabis cream, consider the timing of application:
- Post-Bath or Shower: Apply cannabis cream after bathing or showering when your pores are open and your skin is most receptive to absorption. This can enhance the cream’s effectiveness;
- Before Bed: Applying cannabis cream before bedtime allows it to work overnight, providing prolonged relief from discomfort or skin issues.
Monitor Effects
After applying cannabis cream, monitor how your skin responds and the level of relief you experience. Keep track of any changes in symptoms, such as pain reduction or improvement in skin condition. Adjust the frequency or amount of cream used based on your individual needs and response.
Store Properly
To maintain the quality and potency of cannabis cream:
- Storage: Store the cream in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Exposure to light and heat can degrade the cannabinoids and reduce effectiveness;
- Seal Properly: Ensure the container is tightly sealed after each use to prevent contamination and preserve freshness.
Storing Your Cannabis Cream
Proper storage of cannabis cream is essential for preserving its potency and ensuring its effectiveness over time. Whether you’re using CBD cream, hemp cream, or any other type of cannabis-infused topical product, following these guidelines will help maintain its quality.
Storage Conditions
When storing your cannabis cream, adhere to the following conditions:
- Cool Environment: Store the cream in a cool place where temperatures remain relatively stable. Avoid areas prone to temperature fluctuations, such as near heaters or air conditioning vents;
- Dry Environment: Keep the cream in a dry environment to prevent moisture buildup, which can promote bacterial growth and degrade the product;
- Avoid Sunlight: Direct sunlight can degrade cannabinoids and other active ingredients in the cream. Store it away from windows or other sources of UV light.
Suitable Containers
Choosing the right container can also impact the longevity of your cannabis cream:
- Opaque or Dark-Colored: Opt for containers that are opaque or dark-colored to minimize exposure to light, which can degrade cannabinoids;
- Airtight: Ensure the container has a tight seal to prevent air from entering and oxidizing the cream. This helps maintain its freshness and potency;
- Non-Porous: Use containers made of non-porous materials to prevent moisture from permeating the cream and causing spoilage.
Shelf Life
Cannabis cream typically has a shelf life of up to one year when stored properly. However, factors such as the formulation of the cream, storage conditions, and the presence of preservatives can influence its longevity.
- Check Expiry Date: If the cream has an expiry date printed on the packaging, adhere to it. Discard any cream that has passed its expiration date, as it may no longer be effective or safe to use;
- Observe Changes: Pay attention to any changes in color, texture, or scent of the cream. These may indicate that the product has degraded and should be discarded.
Additional Tips
Consider these additional tips to maintain the quality of your cannabis cream:
- Avoid Contamination: Use clean hands or applicators when dispensing the cream to prevent contamination with bacteria or other impurities;
- Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets: Store the cream in a secure location inaccessible to children or pets to prevent accidental ingestion;
- Travel Considerations: When traveling with cannabis cream, pack it in a sealed container and store it in a cool, dark place. Avoid leaving it in a hot car or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Conclusion
Crafting your own cannabis cream for eczema is a rewarding experience that combines the therapeutic properties of CBD with natural skincare. By following the steps outlined above, you can create a potent, soothing cream that not only helps manage the symptoms of eczema but also nourishes your skin. Always remember to check the legal status of cannabis products in your area before beginning.
Embrace the natural path to comfort and healing by making your own cannabis cream for eczema today!
FAQ
You can apply it 2-3 times a day, especially when the skin feels particularly dry or itchy.
Cannabis creams are generally well-tolerated, but it’s always best to test a small area first to ensure there is no allergic reaction.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before using any cannabis-based products.
No, topical applications of cannabis creams do not enter the bloodstream and thus do not have psychoactive effects.
