Researchers find CBD and CBG help reduce itching and inflammation without side effects
A Natural Solution for a Common Skin Condition
Eczema—also known as atopic dermatitis—affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by dry, itchy, inflamed skin, the condition can significantly impact daily life. For years, steroid creams have been the go-to treatment, but long-term use can come with unwanted side effects like skin thinning.
Now, new research suggests that relief might come from a more natural source: cannabis.
What the Study Found
A team of scientists from the University of Naples Federico II in Italy conducted a four-week clinical trial to test the effects of a cannabis-based ointment on patients with mild to moderate eczema. The topical formula combined CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol)—two non-psychoactive compounds extracted from the cannabis plant.
Fifty adult volunteers applied the ointment twice a day. By the end of the study period, participants reported significant improvements in key symptoms, including:
- Less itching and redness
- Reduced skin thickening
- Improved overall skin hydration
Crucially, no adverse effects were recorded, making this treatment an attractive alternative to traditional steroid-based options.
How It Works: The Science Behind the Cream
Both CBD and CBG interact with the endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors found throughout the human body—including the skin. This system plays a key role in maintaining balance, regulating inflammation, and supporting immune responses.
CBD is already well-known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. CBG, while less studied, is showing increasing potential in dermatological research. When combined, the two cannabinoids appear to calm irritated skin, reduce immune overreactions, and promote healing.
According to the study’s authors, these effects could open the door to non-steroidal cannabis-based therapies for chronic inflammatory skin conditions—not just eczema, but possibly psoriasis and rosacea as well.
What This Means for Skincare and Medicine
Cannabis has come a long way from its controversial past. As legalization spreads and stigma fades, researchers are uncovering a wide range of medical benefits from cannabinoids—especially the non-psychoactive ones like CBD and CBG.
In the skincare world, cannabis-derived ingredients are already trending. But this study adds serious scientific weight to the hype, showing that topical cannabinoids aren’t just a fad—they could be a real therapeutic option.
Still, the researchers caution that more large-scale studies are needed before these products can be widely recommended by dermatologists.
A Step Forward in Personalized, Plant-Based Care
For patients seeking alternatives to synthetic creams, this new research represents hope. A natural, well-tolerated, and effective treatment for eczema could soon be within reach—especially for those who haven’t responded well to traditional therapies.
As the scientific world continues to explore the complex chemistry of cannabis, we may be only beginning to understand the full potential of this ancient plant in modern medicine.
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