Cannabis essential oils (EOs) could help effectively modulate the relationship, and thus the response, of the gut–brain axis (GBA), for example reducing levels of inflammation, triggers for the onset of various diseases. However, administration of EOs must be “measured” in terms of quality, quantity, and timing. Prolonged use, in fact, could yield opposite outcomes. This is what emerges from a recent review by Italian researchers, published in Nutrients. Additional EOs could serve the purpose.
Cannabis Essential Oils
The cannabinoids, namely THC (Tetraidrocannabinolo) and CBD (cannabidiolo), would be capable of positively modulating the (re)actions on the gut–brain axis (GBA) through specific mechanisms, such as regulating neurotransmitters, an impact on the gut microbiota, and an anti-inflammatory effect.
In essence the compounds found in the oils would act through the endocannabinoid system, composed of a network of receptors distributed throughout the body—from the brain to the gut to the immune system—known for its role in managing various functions such as gut motility, inflammation, and mood, thus confirming the gut–brain connection. Some studies would suggest that moderate use of cannabis EO, and this is a crucial aspect, can help reduce intestinal inflammation and improve the intestinal barrier, thereby making it less permeable to harmful agents.
Further evidence seems to suggest that THC and CBD are able to influence intestinal motility, neurotransmitter transmission, and immune activity. In particular, activation of specific receptors such as CB1 and CB2, the main receptors involved in the response to phytocannabinoids, in addition to the effects already mentioned, in animal models would appear to be protective against other intestinal diseases/disorders, such as colitis or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Time, a Crucial Factor
The benefits observed, however, would depend on the precision and adequacy of dosing, the methods of administration, and especially the duration of cannabis EO use, precisely because the “entourage effect,” i.e., the synergy between cannabinoids and other compounds including terpenes, seems crucial in boosting the effectiveness of cannabis EO compared with isolated active ingredients.
It has been observed, however, that these benefits are reversed, with adverse effects, by unsystematic use, primarily prolonged, to the detriment of the gut microbiota, inducing a reduction of beneficial bacteria, such as Prevotella, which support mental well-being, thus impacting cognitive function. In essence, the therapeutic value of cannabis EO stems from cautious and moderate use.
Other Effective Essential Oils
They would also act on the GBA, including other EOs, derived from spices and plants, among them rosemary, where the molecules cineol, α-pinene, and camphor would exert an anxiolytic effect and enhance cognitive function, boosting dopamine secretion, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in neurodegenerative contexts; eucalyptus, rich in 1,8-cineole and α-pinene, which would be linked to memory-enhancing potential via inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and increased acetylcholine levels, but also antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Meanwhile oregano would hinder colonization by E. coli, improve intestinal barrier integrity by reducing proinflammatory cytokines; thyme would act on intestinal smooth muscle with a relaxing effect in addition to selective antimicrobial action, preserving beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
Finally, experimental studies would have shown neuroprotective and antidepressant effects related to thymol, the main active principle of thyme. Lastly, a patented lavender oil has demonstrated anxiolytic effects comparable to some drugs, probably mediated by voltage-gated calcium channels and the phosphorylation of the Creb protein, involved in neuroplasticity.
Effects of Oils on the Gut Microbiota
Research and experts support some specific actions of EO on the gut microbiota, such as a prebiotic effect that stimulates on one hand the production of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium and on the other reduces the growth of pathogenic strains like E. coli or Salmonella, demonstrated, for example, for rosemary, oregano, and thyme essential oils with the promotion especially of a rise in Lactobacillus and short-chain fatty acids, which benefit both gut and mental well-being.
Some other EO seem to improve intestinal barrier integrity, stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory molecules, and reduce oxidative stress, thanks to interactions with the central nervous system and the remodeling of the gut microbial ecosystem, with potential systemic benefits, including mood and cognitive function.
In Conclusion
The premises emerging from the current study point to integrating EOs as an opportunity and an innovative frontier for integrated medicine, particularly in the treatment of gastrointestinal, neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders. Applications and potential that will need confirmation through further research studies.
Source
Camarda L, Mattioli LB, Corazza I et al. Targeting the Gut–Brain Axis with plant-derived Essential oils: phytocannabinoids and beyond. Nutrients, 2025, 17(9), 1578 Doi: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17091578
Abbonati a Karla Miller
