Cannabis for Chickenpox: Can THC Cream Offer Treatment or Relief in Adults?

Chickenpox is a contagious disease caused by infection from the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Chickenpox, also called varicella, causes an itchy blister rash that goes away in around 5 to 10 days. Chickenpox is a common childhood ailment that most people only contract once, but it does affect adults and can be especially severe in adulthood. 

Varicella-zoster, a type of herpesvirus, also causes shingles in older adults. Experts theorize that VZV originated millions of years ago and has evolved along with humans. The term “chickenpox” wasn’t used until the 17th century, although the disease was first described in detail by scientist Giovanni Filippo in the 16th century.

Before a vaccine was introduced in 1995, chickenpox affected 4 million people in the United States, with around 100-150 deaths. In 2022, the Infectious Diseases Society of America reported that cases of chickenpox have decreased by 97% since 1995, with hospitalizations and deaths from the disease also reduced by at least 97%. 

What Causes Chickenpox?

Chickenpox is caused by exposure to the varicella-zoster virus by inhaling droplets in the air or direct contact with the rash. It is easily transmitted and can spread to up to 90% of close contacts if they are not already immune.

While the vaccine has reduced cases of chickenpox, certain risk factors can still be identified. You may be at risk for chickenpox if you: 

• Have not already had chickenpox
• Have not received the chickenpox vaccine
• Work around children

People with a higher risk for complications from chickenpox include:

• Newborns and infants whose mothers never had chickenpox or the vaccine
• Adolescents
• Adults
• Pregnant women who are not immune
• Smokers
• People with weakened immune systems or autoimmune disease
• People taking steroids for another condition

Signs & Symptoms of Chickenpox

If you have chickenpox, you may experience one or more of the following common symptoms:

• An itchy rash that lasts around 5 to 10 days and can cover the entire body
• Small, fluid-filled blisters that eventually turn into scabs
• Fever
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Tiredness

A chickenpox rash usually appears within 10 to 21 days of exposure and goes through stages of bumps, blisters that will break, and scabs. Sometimes chickenpox causes more serious complications, including:

• Bacterial infection
• Sepsis
• Dehydration
• Pneumonia
• Encephalitis
• Bleeding problems
• Toxic shock syndrome
• Reye’s syndrome 

Can Cannabis Help Alleviate Symptoms of Chickenpox?

There is no scientific evidence that medical cannabis has a positive or negative effect on chickenpox or the varicella-zoster virus. Research has shown that cannabis appears to have antiviral properties, and some studies have found this to be true against the herpes simplex virus and certain cases of hepatitis C. However, these results are based only on in vitro and in vivo studies.

A 2010 review of mostly lab and animal studies supported the anti-inflammatory abilities of cannabis but noted an effect that seemed to be dependent on the virus type. In a rodent study, researchers saw improvement with medical cannabis treatment. When treating certain other types of viral infections with cannabis, both in lab and animal studies, researchers saw a quicker disease progression and even death of the host. VZV can become this type of virus, but it usually doesn’t happen until VZV potentially reactivates later in life to cause shingles. 

While there just isn’t enough evidence to say whether cannabis can alleviate the virus that causes chickenpox, there is more promise for its effects on the skin. Scientists have found that the endocannabinoid system appears to play a part in the homeostasis of the skin. Because of this, experts have also explored the effects of cannabis on skin inflammation and itchiness, both symptoms of chickenpox. A 2020 review states that while further research is required, the few clinical trials into cannabis for pruritus have so far been largely positive. 

In cases of cannabis for skin inflammation, mainly oral and topical formulations have been studied. According to a 2022 review, topical cannabis treatments seem to have the most potential but also require even more investigation. Although the current clinical research is positive, it is sparse and based on studies that have inconsistent methodologies, making it hard to draw sweeping conclusions.

Chickenpox can be a stressful condition when contracted as an adult. Medical cannabis has been studied for its effect on anxiety, and it could be theorized that it may improve quality of life when combined with chickenpox treatment for adults. At the same time, chickenpox is not usually a long-term condition, and there is overall limited research on cannabis use while experiencing a chickenpox outbreak.

Other non-intoxicating cannabinoids like CBD and CBG may provide some relief, as these cannabinoids have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in clinical studies. Hemp seed oil is also a great option, as it is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids that soothe and protect your skin. When considering medical cannabis formulations for chickenpox, creams, oils, and other topicals made with non-irritating ingredients are best.

The lack of direct research into the effects of cannabis on chickenpox treatment and VZV makes it impossible to issue clear medical guidance until further clinical trials are conducted. While cannabis does not appear to worsen chickenpox, you should use caution, and cannabis use when infected with VZV should be discussed with your doctor. It is important to be aware that cannabis has the ability to interact with certain medications. You should never give medical cannabis to a child for a condition for which it has not been prescribed.

Legality and Doctor’s Recommendation

To determine if your state considers chickenpox to be a qualifying condition for medical cannabis, check out our Laws & Regulations section for the medical cannabis rules for your state.

If you find that your state recognizes chickenpox or its symptoms as a qualifying medical condition, you can seek a doctor’s recommendation to get your medical cannabis card in your state.

How NuggMD Can Help

NuggMD is the nation's leading medical cannabis technology platform, serving patients in over half the United States. We’ve connected over 1,300,000 patients with their new medical cannabis doctors face-to-face via our state-of-the-art telemedicine platform. 

We believe that every human being has the right to explore the benefits of medical cannabis and are fully committed to helping each patient explore all of their options in their journey to wellness. For further information on whether you qualify for medical cannabis, select your state.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cannabis & Chickenpox

Can cannabis worsen chickenpox?

Currently, there is a lack of direct research on the effects of cannabis on chickenpox or the virus that causes it. Studies on a similar type of virus indicated that cannabis may not be harmful, but further research and testing are required. While cannabis doesn’t seem to worsen chickenpox, no definitive scientific evidence exists either way.

What symptoms of chickenpox can cannabis help with?

Further study is required to issue clear clinical guidance on cannabis use for symptoms of chickenpox. Based on research into the endocannabinoid system and its effects on skin health, cannabis may one day prove to be beneficial for inflammatory skin symptoms of chickenpox. Still, at this time, there isn’t definitive proof.

Do topicals help with chickenpox?

Cannabis topicals have not been directly studied in relation to chickenpox, but they have been investigated for their effects on skin inflammation. Although these studies have turned out largely positive results, more research is needed. You should consult with your doctor before using a cannabis topical for chickenpox.

Resources

1. Pontremoli C, Forni D, Clerici M, Cagliani R, Sironi M. Possible European Origin of Circulating Varicella Zoster Virus Strains. The Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2020;221(8):1286-1294. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jiz227
2. Mahmud MS, Hossain MS, Ahmed ATMF, Islam MZ, Sarker ME, Islam MR. Antimicrobial and Antiviral (SARS-CoV-2) Potential of Cannabinoids and Cannabis sativa: A Comprehensive Review. Molecules. 2021;26(23):7216. Published 2021 Nov 28. doi:10.3390/molecules26237216
3. Reiss CS. Cannabinoids and Viral Infections. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2010;3(6):1873-1886. doi:10.3390/ph3061873
4. Zerboni L, Sen N, Oliver SL, Arvin AM. Molecular mechanisms of varicella zoster virus pathogenesis. Nat Rev Microbiol. 2014;12(3):197-210. doi:10.1038/nrmicro3215
5. Avila C, Massick S, Kaffenberger BH, Kwatra SG, Bechtel M. Cannabinoids for the treatment of chronic pruritus: A review. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2020;82(5):1205-1212. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2020.01.036
6. Martins AM, Gomes AL, Vilas Boas I, Marto J, Ribeiro HM. Cannabis-Based Products for the Treatment of Skin Inflammatory Diseases: A Timely Review [published correction appears in Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022 Jul 11;15(7):]. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022;15(2):210. Published 2022 Feb 9. doi:10.3390/ph15020210
7. Robaina Cabrera CL, Keir-Rudman S, Horniman N, Clarkson N, Page C. The anti-inflammatory effects of cannabidiol and cannabigerol alone, and in combination. Pulm Pharmacol Ther. 2021;69:102047. doi:10.1016/j.pupt.2021.102047

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.