Congratulations Cannabis! You are now legal in Canada. After almost 100 years of being vilified you have finally been reinstated as a respected healer and plant helper. Welcome back!
Cannabis has been an important part of medical traditions around the world since the beginning of human history. The Ancient Chinese called cannabis ‘the great numbness’ and it is one of the 50 fundamental herbs in Chinese Medicine. It was also used in ancient Egypt, India and Greece. The benefits of cannabis have been respected and recognized throughout the world.
The two strains of cannabis (cannabis sativa and cannabis indica) contain 14 active substances, known as cannabinoids. The most well-known cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydeocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
THC is well-known for its psychoactive effect, and also for its ability to bind to CB1 receptors in the body to balance the central nervous system, liver, gonads and glands.
CBD, which does not have a psychoactive effect, is known for binding to CB2 receptors to balance the peripheral nervous system, the immune system and lymph tissues.
The overall effect of the cannabinoids are to balance the endocannabinoid system in the body, which can result in overall balance in all body tissues and systems – especially the nervous system.
So now, with legalization in Canada, it is possible for us to experience relief from pain, anxiety, insomnia, neurological conditions – and even acne – like never before.
That’s right. Research has shown that cannabis can reduce acne. But wait – don’t light up yet! You have to use the right cannabinoid.
Smoking pot can actually increase acne. This is because THC increases testosterone levels, which can lead to more acne. Testosterone is an androgenic hormone that is associated with acne production in the body.
Instead, you want to get yourself some CBD oil.
A study conducted in 2014 in the Journal of Clinical Investigation revealed that a cannabinoid called CBC (cannabichromene) treats acne by reducing sebaceous gland sebum production and arachidonic acid production. CBC is found most readily in CBD oil.
CBD is especially indicated for acne patients that also experience anxiety, insomnia and depression.
So go nuts. But not too nuts. Research is still in its infancy when it comes to assessing the long-term effects of cannabis use. We already know that long-term heavy usage of cannabis can lead to memory, learning and intelligence impairment, addiction and perhaps the unmasking of psychosis and schizophrenia.
So use what you need, but remember:
Taking CBD oil will not address the root cause of acne. It is a brilliant medication to take while your body is being balanced and restored but the ultimate goal is to achieve clear skin without the use of cannabinoids or any other strong medication. And that is what we call respecting the herb, man.
If you need help getting rid of your acne be sure to check out my 7-Week Clear Skin Program. I have been treating acne as a Naturopathic Doctor for over 12 years, and I understand the root causes of acne and how to balance the body so that you can have clear skin for good! For more information check out my 7-Week Clear Skin Program here.
From the very chilled-out, totally stoned country of Canada,
Dr. Stacey
