Korean researchers have identified that cannabis can assist in the treatment of atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes intense itching. The study, published in the Frontiers journal, demonstrated that the plant extract reduced substances associated with the inflammatory process and increased factors responsible for skin hydration.

The research used a hybrid variety of Cannabis sativa L., with over eight types of cannabinoids, including CBD (cannabidiol), CBDA (cannabidiolic acid), and CBDV (cannabidivarin). CBDA and CBD were the most abundant, representing around 28% of the total composition of the extract.

Therapeutic action in human and animal skin

In a column on the Sechat portal, pharmacist Priscila Gava Mazzola highlighted that cannabis compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, reduce itching, and aid in the recovery of the skin's protective barrier. Preclinical studies had already shown that the topical use of PEA — a substance present in the plant — significantly improved symptoms of itching and inflammation in animal models.

The benefits also extend to the pet universe. Veterinarian Neide Griebeler states, in a column, that atopic dermatitis affects about 58% of dogs with skin problems, causing lesions, otitis, hair loss, and changes in coloration. According to her, cannabinoids help reduce swelling and inflammation, as well as preserve the integrity of the animals' skin barrier.

Neide emphasizes that cannabis can be part of a “multimodal therapy” — a combination of different approaches — for long-term disease control, modulating the immune system response and increasing the chances of treatment success.