Advances in Transdermal Delivery and Antimicrobial Applications of Cannabinoids: Challenges in Successful Formulations with Therapeutic Benefits

Cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa (hemp) have recently garnered attention for their health benefits, including pain relief, antimicrobial efficacy, anti-inflammatory properties, and modulation of gut microbiota. This Research Topic explores the challenges and innovations in the transdermal delivery of cannabinoids, focusing on overcoming the limitations linked to their physicochemical properties. Transdermal systems bypass first-pass metabolism, potentially enhancing bioavailability, but factors such as local irritation and low skin penetration pose significant challenges.

The antimicrobial properties of cannabinoids, notably CBD, have shown high efficacy against Gram-positive and selective Gram-negative bacteria, including WHO high-priority pathogens. Understanding the mechanisms behind their antibacterial action, such as membrane disruption and biofilm inhibition, offers exciting potential for treating skin infections and inflammatory conditions.

This Research Topic welcomes the following themes, but not limited to:

- Transdermal delivery of cannabinoids and their antimicrobial mechanisms
- Advancements in formulation development
- Interplay between cannabinoids and gut microbiota
- Innovative treatments for infections
- Sustainable production methods of medicinal compounds
- Improved management of skin diseases and infections

Keywords: Antimicrobials, Gut-Skin Axis, Biosynthesis, Cannabinoids, Transdermal Delivery, Inflammation, Redox Balance, Pain Mitigation

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.