Breakthrough Discovery: Cannabis Compounds Show Promise in Fighting Fungal Infections
Researchers from three Australian universities have made a groundbreaking discovery, finding that compounds derived from the cannabis plant can effectively combat common skin infections, including athlete’s foot. The study, published in The Journal of Neglected Tropical Diseases, reveals that cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabidivarin (CBDV) exhibit antifungal properties against various fungal pathogens, including the potentially deadly Cryptococcus neoformans.
The research team, based at Macquarie University, the University of Sydney, and the University of New South Wales, discovered that these compounds can kill Cryptococcus neoformans, which can cause life-threatening meningitis, as well as tackle common skin irritants like dermatitis. The study’s findings suggest that cannabis extracts could be used to treat a range of fungal infections, including pneumocystis pneumonia and various other yeast and mold infections.
According to the World Health Organization, approximately one billion people worldwide are affected by fungus-caused infections each year. The need for new treatments is growing, as the global incidence of antifungal resistance is on the rise. The researchers believe that their discovery could lead to the development of over-the-counter topical treatments for common skin infections.
“We’re excited about the potential for these compounds to be used against fungal infections,” said Macquarie University’s Hue Dinh. “If we can demonstrate their effectiveness, people could simply use CBD oil and rub it on their skin to treat common infections.” The researchers are now working to identify the most effective compounds and develop a treatment that can be used by the general public.
