CBD Activity and Safety

On a molecular level, cannabinoids become functionally active by binding to what are referred to as the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the body’s endocann­abinoid system. CB1 receptors are found on brainstem neurons17 and glial cells. CB2 sites are found in the spleen tissue. These receptors were first described by leading investigators in 2003 and reviewed later in 2009.

The quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technique has long been used to determine if particular genes are expressed in in-vitro skin cultures. To date, 163 genes have been identified in skin, ranging from inflammation, pigmentation, wound healing, anti-aging and hydration, to name a few.  Interest­ingly, researchers have found that more than 100 genes are regulated by CBD in a manner dependent upon the concentr­ation, solvent and duration of the test. This approach offers an interesting means to target formulations with intended effects in real skin tissue.

Several dozen scientific peer-reviewed research papers report the benefits of CBD for skin. Examples include combating inflammation, acne, pain and melanoma; acting as an analgesic to promote wound healing and relieving itch.  In human trials, researchers have found the topical application of CBD to effectively reduce psoriasis, eczema (atopic dermatitis) and tissue scarring. Also observed were significant improvements in hydration, elasticity and the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI). Likewise, investigators have showed CBD to act on psoriasis in cultured human epidermal keratino­cytes.

Studies also have indicated that CBD can regulate epidermal differen­tiation through the CB1 receptor,  and reduce histamine responses in human skin. Other research documents its use in treating inflammatory acne vulgaris due to its ability to decrease the proliferation of human sebocytes, as shown in vitro. Chelliah et al. even reports on the topical application of CBD to treat the rare, blistering skin disorder of Epidemolysis bullosa, finding that patients healed faster and experienced less pain and blistering.

Furthermore, the safety of CBD also is well-established. In a number of studies, no adverse effects levels (NOAEL) were reported. Different reports, like the Human Repeat Insult Patch Tests (HRIPT) showed no irritation or allergic response in the subjects were CBD based products were used.

It is important to note that research is on-going, and that the FDA has not approved CBD for these, or any other, topical treatment applications.