Poland Study Finds That Hemp Seed Oil Mitigates Eczema Symptoms
According to international health researchers, atopic dermatitis, often referred to as eczema, affects roughly 20% of children and 10% of adults worldwide. Full disclosure – I am one of those adults, and know firsthand how difficult eczema is to deal with when it flares up.
Eczema is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin condition, and while that may not sound like a serious condition, it can be in extreme cases. The skin condition is often associated with sleep disruption, decreased work productivity, and the development of mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
A recent case study led by researchers based in Poland, in conjunction with a researcher affiliated with De Montfort University of Leicester in the United Kingdom, focused on the use of hemp seed oil as a treatment for eczema. The study’s findings were published in the journal Current Issues in Pharmacy and Medical Sciences.
“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.” the researchers wrote. “Emollient therapy is the mainstay of proper skincare and treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD) patients.”
“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 researchers wrote about their methodology. “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.” the researchers concluded.
A recent market analysis by Future Market Insights estimates that the global hemp seed oil market is “valued at USD 147.8 million in 2025, is expected to climb to USD 855.7 million by 2035, showcasing a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.2% during the forecast period.”