DIY Cannabis Balm for Eczema Relief
Why Use Cannabis Balms for Eczema Relief?
In our most recent podcast episode, we talked about how to make a DIY cannabis balm for neuropathy pain. Today, we’re shifting focus to another common condition: eczema. October is Eczema Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to explore natural remedies like cannabis balms to help manage eczema symptoms.
Eczema affects millions of people, including seniors, causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. While there is no cure for eczema, a cannabis balm with soothing ingredients like chamomile oil can offer significant relief. Let’s dive into how to make this gentle, effective balm right at home.
Why Use Cannabis Balms for Eczema Relief?
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes red, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. While traditional treatments can help, many people turn to natural solutions like cannabis balms to manage symptoms. Here’s why a cannabis balm can be an excellent option for soothing eczema:
Topical Relief: Cannabis balms don’t enter the bloodstream, meaning you won’t experience any psychoactive effects. They work locally on the skin, calming inflammation and reducing itching.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Cannabis contains compounds like CBD, known for their anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe irritated skin.
Moisturizing Power: Eczema often results in extremely dry skin. Cannabis balms are typically made with moisturizing ingredients that lock in hydration and protect the skin barrier.
Key Ingredients for Making a Cannabis Eczema Balm at Home
Making a DIY cannabis balm for eczema is simple and requires a few specific ingredients that are great for sensitive skin. Here’s what you’ll need:
Coconut Oil: This serves as the base of the balm, offering deep hydration and helping to restore the skin’s moisture barrier, which is often compromised by eczema.
Beeswax: Beeswax adds thickness to the balm, creating a protective layer over the skin that locks in moisture and helps prevent future irritation.
Cannabis Extract (CBD or THC): The star ingredient! Cannabis extract, especially CBD, has been shown to reduce inflammation and calm irritated skin. Make sure to use a high-quality, lab-tested extract.
Chamomile Oil (Instead of Peppermint Oil): Chamomile is well-known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it perfect for eczema-prone skin. Unlike peppermint, which can be harsh, chamomile is gentle and calming.
Vitamin E: This antioxidant helps nourish damaged skin and extends the shelf life of your balm, keeping it fresh for longer.
Calmoseptine Ointment: This ingredient creates a protective barrier on the skin, helping to soothe irritation and lock in moisture.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make a Soothing Eczema Balm
Here’s how you can create your own cannabis balm for eczema relief. This recipe includes an optional step for adding a calcineurin inhibitor cream, but be sure to consult your healthcare provider before including it.
Melt the Coconut Oil and Beeswax:
In a double boiler, combine equal parts coconut oil and beeswax. Keep the heat low and stir occasionally until both ingredients are fully melted. The beeswax thickens the balm, helping it stay on the skin longer and creating a protective barrier to lock in moisture.
Add Cannabis Extract:
Once the oil and beeswax are melted and removed from heat, add your cannabis extract (either CBD or THC). I used a high-quality, lab-tested extract from Jetty Extracts in this recipe. Jetty Extracts is known for their clean, potent cannabis products, which can help reduce inflammation and calm irritated skin. Stir thoroughly to ensure it is evenly mixed into the base.
Mix in Chamomile Oil:
Add a few drops of chamomile oil to the mixture. Chamomile is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it perfect for reducing itching and calming sensitive skin.
Add Calmoseptine Ointment:
If you’ve decided to include Calmoseptine Ointment in your balm, now is the time to mix it in. Carefully blend the ointment with the balm base to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This step is optional but can be especially helpful for soothing and protecting skin affected by more severe eczema.
Stir in Vitamin E:
Add Vitamin E to the mix. Vitamin E helps to stabilize the balm, extends its shelf life, and provides additional nourishment for dry, damaged skin. Use an immersion blender or whisk to ensure a smooth consistency.
Let the Balm Set:
Pour the mixture into small glass jars or tins and allow it to cool at room temperature for about an hour. As it cools, the balm will solidify into a firm, easy-to-apply product.
Important Notes on Eczema Relief and Cannabis
While this balm can help relieve the symptoms of eczema, such as itching, dryness, and inflammation, it’s important to understand that it cannot cure eczema. Eczema is a chronic condition that flares up due to various triggers, including allergens, stress, and environmental factors.
Using a cannabis balm regularly can help manage these flare-ups, but it’s always a good idea to test new products on a small area of your skin to make sure you don’t have any adverse reactions. If you have severe eczema or are on other medications, consult with your healthcare provider before using cannabis-based skincare products.
Final Thoughts on Natural Eczema Remedies
This cannabis-infused balm is a natural, gentle solution for managing eczema symptoms. The combination of moisturizing coconut oil, soothing chamomile, and anti-inflammatory cannabis makes it ideal for calming irritated, sensitive skin. Whether you’re using it for yourself or a loved one, this balm is an easy addition to your skincare routine.
For seniors dealing with eczema, finding relief through natural remedies like cannabis is a great alternative to harsh over-the-counter treatments. As always, approach new treatments with curiosity and caution, and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Medical Disclaimer:
The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before using any new treatments, especially cannabis products. While this balm may help alleviate eczema symptoms, it is not a cure. Please speak with a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health.