A recent study published in the journal “Molecules” has highlighted the potential therapeutic benefits of minor cannabinoids in the treatment of dermatological diseases. The study, conducted by Polish researchers Emilia Kwiecień and Dorota Kowalczuk from the Medical University of Lublin and A-Sense chemistry lab, analyzed medical studies published in other scientific journals and found that cannabinoids possess diverse pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and anti-itch properties.
The researchers focused on studying the effects of various cannabinoids such as CBDV, CBDP, CBC, THCV, CBGA, CBG, CBN, CBM (cannabimovone), and CBE (cannabielsoin) on dermatological diseases like psoriasis, eczema, acne, and pruritus. They found that these minor cannabinoids have shown efficacy in alleviating symptoms associated with these conditions and have potential in regulating sebum production, which is a crucial factor in acne pathogenesis.
Specific cannabinoids were found to be more effective at treating specific conditions. For example, CBDV exhibited significant anti-inflammatory properties and could be useful in addressing skin issues such as itching or swelling in relation to atopic dermatitis (AD). It also showed promise in treating acne lesions due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Similarly, CBM and CBE demonstrated unique anti-inflammatory properties that could be explored as a novel alternative for conducting research. CBC was found to have both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that could benefit the treatment of acne, psoriasis, and AD.
THCV was identified as having promising properties in combatting acne by reducing sebum production. It also exhibited anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help alleviate inflammation and fight against the bacteria responsible for acne development. Additionally, studies on mice have shown THCV to be effective in treating metabolic and neurological disorders.
The researchers also highlighted the importance of a well-balanced and regulated endocannabinoid system in maintaining healthy skin. They explained that the endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in regulating biological processes in the skin, including immune response, cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Suppression of skin inflammation is one of its strongest functions.
Furthermore, the researchers suggested that topical applications of cannabinoids could potentially mitigate skin aging effects through targeted interaction with receptors and enzymes, similar to melatonin and secosteroids.
While the study presents promising therapeutic prospects for minor cannabinoids in dermatological diseases, Kwiecień and Kowalczuk emphasize the need for further research, regulations, and a balanced approach to ensure benefits while minimizing potential health and societal risks. They acknowledge that issues pertaining to the nervous system’s impact, product quality and regulation, as well as ethical and legal aspects, require comprehensive consideration.
Other studies have also explored the use of cannabinoids in treating common skin conditions. For example, cannabinoids have been found to be effective in treating psoriasis and eczema due to their anti-inflammatory properties. The National Psoriasis Foundation reports that more than eight million people in the U.S. suffer from psoriasis, while the National Eczema Association states that one in every 10 individuals experiences some form of eczema in their lifetime.
In conclusion, the study highlights the potential therapeutic benefits of minor cannabinoids in dermatological diseases. Further research is needed to explore these observations in more depth and address various considerations such as product quality, regulation, and ethical/legal aspects. However, with an increasing number of studies supporting the use of cannabinoids in treating skin conditions, it is evident that they hold promise as a novel treatment option for patients suffering from dermatological diseases.
