Cannabis and Shingles

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https://www.plant-family.com/cannabis-and-shingles/

Cannabis and shingles research

Although research on cannabis and shingles is extremely limited, there is a long history dating back as far as 1851 (U.S. Pharmacopeia) showing the use of cannabis to manage the symptoms of the condition.

A very small study found that using cannabis as a topical application reduced the nerve pain associated with shingles in 5 of the 8 participants. While other studies, not specifically shingles but neuropathic pain in general, report that there is substantial evidence that cannabis is an effective treatment of chronic pain including neuropathic pain.

What we do know

Our endocannabinoid system (ECS) works to help with several processes including how we perceive pain. The ECS consists of fatty-based neurotransmitters that include anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These endocannabinoids can be increased or decreased in our bodies and serve a variety of medical purposes by binding to cannabinoid receptors CB1, CB2, and transient receptor potential or TRP receptors.

The skin contains large amounts of cannabinoid receptors as well as AEA in the primary skin cell, skin nerve fibers, hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous (oil) glands. And because of the ECS presence in the skin, it is a great target for treating itching (pruritis), eczema, acne, epidermolysis bullosa, skin cancer, and more.

So, what does this mean? This means that these receptors play a role in reducing pain in the nerves of the skin as well as reducing inflammation.

When our ECS is functioning correctly, our internal cannabinoids activate CB1 receptors when needed to reduce pain signals and our perception of pain. By stimulating CB2 receptors, we are also reducing pain signaling that is present in nerve fibers and sensory neurons. This is relevant because CB1 and CB2 receptors are present in the nerves that are malfunctioning causing pain. So, by stimulating these receptors we can make an impact on neuropathic pain.

Cannabis not only helps with pain but offers relief from extreme itching by binding to cannabinoid receptors and TRP channels in the skin. In addition, research shows that cannabis has the ability to regulate the immune system and affect its interaction with viruses and bacteria.

CBD and Shingles                                 

The ongoing research on CBD suggests – CBD can interact with our serotonin receptors, signaling to the brain to reduce pain sensations. CBD’s ability to modulate immune response and inflammation may make it a useful tool in tackling the nerve pain associated with shingles.

Research supports CBD’s ability to soothe inflammation in various health conditions and act on CB1 and CB2 receptors to reduce sensitivity to pain. CBD reportedly helps ease nerve pain associated with shingles, despite a lack of research explicitly examining its effectiveness.

Many positive benefits of cannabis on shingles can be found in topicals, which act directly on cannabinoid receptors in the skin to address localized pain. Balms, creams, or salves with higher amounts of CBD may soothe pain and relieve some itching associated with shingles rashes.

THC and CBD for shingles

Both THC and CBD are shown to reduce pain perception and inflammation in topicals that work directly on the skin and from smoking low-dose THC, which can give immediate results. Anecdotally, patients report positive benefits from edibles for managing pain, which offers longer and more potent effects versus smoking.

Take away

Shingles cause pain by attacking nerve cells. While there is no cure for shingles, cannabis seems to be a positive benefit for many by aiding in the relief of pain and itching that is associated with the condition.

As research continues, scientists are learning more about how medical cannabis can help shingles patients, as well as coming closer to a cure for this painful disease. Many patients with shingles have found relief through cannabis, which is approved for chronic pain in most medical cannabis states. Speak with your doctor to find out if medical cannabis might be right for you.