THERAPEUTIC EFFECT OF CANNABIDIOL (CBD) IN PLAQUE PSORIASIS

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) of the skin is a complex molecular network of receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes that has sparked the interest of modern dermatology since its discovery in 1988. Studies have shown that dysregulation of ECS is closely associated with various skin diseases, including psoriasis as one of the most common autoimmune skin diseases. Psoriasis has a bimodal distribution of onset and a massive socioeconomic impact in modern societies, since it affects 3% of the global population. Although our knowledge regarding the association between ECS and psoriasis is limited, modulators of ECS have paved a novel therapeutic approach to be considered when treating psoriasis patients. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychotic, lipophilic, twenty-one carbon terpenophenolic phytocannabinoid derived from Cannabis plant that has promising therapeutic properties. Topical or transdermal formulations containing CBD have anti-inflammatory properties via inhibition of NF-kB signaling pathway and upregulation of keratin 6 and 16 in psoriasis patients. This review article discusses the up-to-date knowledge of the endocannabinoid system in the skin, its role in the pathophysiology of psoriasis, and therapeutic potential of cannabidiol in treatment of patients with plaque psoriasis.