A new study published in the peer-reviewed journal Molecules suggests that certain lesser-known cannabinoids found in hemp and marijuana may hold promise in treating dermatological diseases such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne. The study, conducted by Polish researchers Emilia KwiecieĊ and Dorota Kowalczuk, reviewed existing literature published in scientific journals to identify the potential therapeutic applications of these minor cannabinoids.
The researchers found that minor cannabinoids such as THCV, CBDV, CBC, CBM, and CBN exhibit diverse pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and anti-itch properties. Some studies have reported their efficacy in mitigating symptoms associated with dermatological diseases. For example, CBDV has anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate itching and swelling in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD). It also has healing effects on acne lesions due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Other recently discovered cannabinoids such as CBM and CBE have also demonstrated anti-inflammatory potential. They represent a novel alternative for conducting scientific research regarding specific disease conditions. Similarly, CBC with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects may have a beneficial impact on the treatment of acne, psoriasis, and AD.
THCV shows promising properties in combatting acne as it may help regulate sebum production. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can alleviate inflammation and combat the bacteria responsible for acne development.
In total, the researchers identified possible therapeutic applications of minor cannabinoids such as CBDV (cannabidivarin), CBDP (cannabidiforol), CBC (cannabichromene), THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin), CBGA (cannabigerolic acid), CBG (cannabigerol), CBN (cannabinol), CBM (cannabimovone), and CBE (cannabielsoin).
The effects of these minor cannabinoids are believed to be the result of their interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for maintaining the health and proper functioning of almost every organism. Increasing evidence suggests that endocannabinoid signaling plays a crucial role in regulating biological processes in the skin. Many skin functions, such as immune response, cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival, are at least partially regulated by the endocannabinoid system, and suppressing skin inflammation is one of its strongest functions.
Topical applications of minor cannabinoids may even help mitigate the effects of aging, according to the study. However, the authors emphasized that more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of these minor cannabinoids. There are also barriers to progress, including issues related to product quality and regulation, as well as ethical and legal aspects.
In conclusion, this study highlights the potential therapeutic promise of lesser-known cannabinoids produced by hemp and marijuana in treating dermatological diseases. Incorporating minor cannabinoids into dermatological therapies could potentially offer novel treatment options for patients and improve their overall well-being. However, further research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness and ensure their safe use.
