Topical use of Cannabis Sativa L. - based emulsion for management of atopic dermatitis persisting from infancy in a 23 year-old male – a case study

In today’s industrialized and quickly developing world, the prevalence of atopic dermatitis in children and adults alike continues to grow. Epidemiological studies conducted over the past 35 years indicate a 2-fold rise in incidence, linked to environmental factors, among others, growing atmospheric pollution, rising socioeconomic status and increasing popularity of the so called western lifestyle. Emollient therapy is the mainstay of proper skincare and treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD) patients. Our experimental (interventional) study was conducted from June to October. The subject of the study was transdermal delivery of an emulsion compounded with cholesterol ointment, Cannabis Sativa L. (hemp) seed oil, white petroleum jelly, purified water and urea to the skin of hands of a 23-year old male patient suffering atopic dermatitis (eczema) since infancy. The emulsion was applied to the skin once daily before sleep and covered with cotton gloves for the night for the occlusion effect for a period of 3 months. In our observational study, regular, 3-month application of the emulsion based on Cannabis Sativa L. oil considerably reduced inflammation, erythema, pruritus, xerosis and scaling of the skin, soothing excoriations and lichenification. Słowa kluczowe: atopic dermatitis, xerosis, hemp oil