Opportunities, Challenges, and Scientific Progress in Hemp Crops

The resurgence of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) has been propelled by changes in the legal framework governing its cultivation and use, increased demand for hemp-derived products, and studies recognizing the industrial and health benefits of hemp. This has led to the creation of novel high-cannabidiol, low-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol varieties, enabling hemp crop expansion worldwide. This review elucidates the recent implications for hemp cultivation in Europe, with a focus on the legislative impacts on the cultivation practices, prospective breeding efforts, and dynamic scientific landscape surrounding this crop. We also review the current cultivars' cannabinoid composition of the European hemp market and its major differences with that of the United States.

Topical Use of Cannabis sativa L. Biochemicals

Cannabis sativa L. plant is currently attracting increasing interest in cosmetics and dermatology. In this review, the biologically active compounds of hemp are discussed. Particularly the complex interactions of cannabinoids with the endocannabinoid system of the skin to treat various conditions (such as acne, allergic contact dermatitis, melanoma, and psoriasis) with clinical data. Moreover, the properties of some cannabinoids make them candidates as cosmetic actives for certain skin types. Hemp seed oil and its minor bioactive compounds such as terpenes, flavonoids, carotenoids, and phytosterols are also discussed for their added value in cosmetic formulation.

Formation, Stability and Properties of Hemp Seed Oil Emulsions for Application in the Cosmetics Industry

Hemp seed oil has good sun protection, repair, anti-allergy and anti-aging effects, and is a high quality raw material for the production of skincare products. However, the influence of surfactants and co-surfactants on the emulsification of hemp seed oil in aqueous solution has been rarely investigated. In this investigation, the surfactants and co-surfactants which were suitable for hemp seed oil emulsion were optimized, and the factors which influence the particle size and the stability of the emulsion were studied. Moreover, the application of hemp seed emulsion in different cosmetics was also further investigated. It was found that sorbitan monooleate/polysorbate-80 and glyceryl stearate were the most effective surfactant and co-surfactant in the emulsification of hemp seed oil. After three months the hemp seed oil emulsion had no layered separation and remained homogeneous at -48C, 258C and 408C. The water-resistant sunscreens and the hemp seed oil sunscreens were homogeneous pastes, had a soft texture and were stable at higher temperatures. No microorganisms were detected in these cosmetic creams. Therefore, hemp seed oil is suitable for sunscreen cosmetic materials.