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Targeting the Gut-Brain Axis with Plant-Derived Essential Oils: Phytocannabinoids and Beyond
Luca Camarda1, Laura Beatrice Mattioli1,2, Ivan Corazza2,3
1Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Food Chemistry and Nutraceutical Lab, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
Nutrients
|May 14, 2025
Summary
Essential oils (EOs) show potential for modulating the gut-brain axis (GBA) by influencing neurotransmitters and gut bacteria. While cannabis essential oil (CEO) offers benefits, long-term use requires caution due to microbiota impacts.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The gut-brain axis (GBA) is a critical bidirectional communication pathway between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system.
- Essential oils (EOs) are natural compounds with emerging potential to modulate the GBA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively analyze recent literature on the effects of EOs on the GBA.
- To investigate the role of the endocannabinoid system, cannabis-derived EOs, and other plant-based EOs in GBA modulation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on studies of EOs and the GBA.
- Analysis of effects on the endocannabinoid system, gut microbiota, neuroinflammation, and neurotransmission.
- Examination of cannabis essential oil (CEO) and other plant EOs (rosemary, lavender, eucalyptus, oregano).
Main Results:
- Cannabis essential oil (CEO) interacts with cannabinoid receptors (CBR1, CBR2), modulating gut motility, immune responses, and neurotransmission.
- Acute CEO administration reduces gut inflammation and permeability, but chronic use may alter gut microbiota and impair cognition.
- Other EOs (rosemary, lavender, eucalyptus, oregano) show potential for neurotransmitter modulation, gut microbiota balance, and reducing neuroinflammation.
Conclusions:
- EOs show promise in modulating the GBA via neurotransmitter regulation, microbiota balance, and anti-inflammatory actions.
- Phytocannabinoids offer therapeutic value, but long-term use necessitates caution regarding microbiota effects.
- Future research should focus on EO-based interventions to restore GBA homeostasis and address neurodegenerative and gastrointestinal disorders.
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