Formulation Of An Ointment From Hemp Extracts: Development, Stability, And Preliminary Efficacy

Abstract

Demand for nature-derived, environmentally considerate options for localized pain and inflammatory skin conditions has renewed attention to phytopharmaceuticals. We developed a hemp-based ointment by incorporating a decarboxylated ethanolic hemp extract into an anhydrous, occlusive base designed for dermal compatibility, structural integrity, and sensorial acceptability. Two strengths 25% w/w and 30% w/w were prepared and characterized for appearance, homogeneity, spreadability, extrudability, pH in aqueous dispersion, and thermal behavior (4 °C, 25 °C, 45 °C). Human patch testing (pilot) screened for irritation, and a small, non-blinded, proof-of-concept comparison qualitatively explored symptom change versus placebo base. Both strengths were reddish-brown, homogeneous, easily extrudable, and showed good spreadability. Dispersed pH was skin-compatible (25%: 6.27 ± 0.10; 30%: 6.36 ± 0.30). The 25% strength remained stable at all tested temperatures, whereas the 30% strength was stable at 4 °C and 25 °C with minor softening at 45 °C. Patch testing indicated a non-irritant profile. Exploratory observations suggested greater localized pain relief and visible reduction in inflammatory signs with the hemp ointment compared with placebo, consistent with mechanistic expectations for CBD-dominant phytocannabinoid mixtures. Collectively, these data support the feasibility of a cannabinoid-enriched anhydrous ointment as a patient-friendly topical with favorable stability and tolerability, and they motivate rigorous next-step studies including standardization of cannabinoid content with stability-indicating assays, dermal pharmacokinetic characterization, and randomized, blinded efficacy trials using validated endpoints.