A study published today by the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules found that a hemp seed oil-based nanoemulgel significantly reduced inflammation in an animal model of psoriasis.

Researchers from the Gyeongsangbuk-do Government Public Institute of Health & Environment, Kyungpook National University, and the University of California-Davis developed a hydrocolloid-based nanoemulgel using hemp seed oil, which is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and γ-linolenic acid.

Nanoemulgels are structured delivery systems that combine nanoemulsions with polymer gel networks, helping improve stability, skin residence time and delivery of oil-based compounds. In this study, researchers created both a hemp seed oil nanoemulsion and a gel-based version, then evaluated their structural and biological effects.

The study found that incorporating the nanoemulsion into the hydrocolloid gel network increased its negative zeta potential from −39.60 to −67.37 mV, indicating stronger electrostatic stabilization and improved resistance to droplet aggregation. FTIR and TEM analyses showed that the gel network physically entrapped the nanoemulsion droplets without disrupting the oil structure.

Researchers then tested the hemp seed oil nanoemulgel in an imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like mouse model. Topical application significantly reduced inflammatory responses and was associated with downregulation of cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction and NF-κB signaling pathways, both of which are involved in psoriasis-related inflammation.

The authors concluded that hydrocolloid-based nanoemulgels may be an effective strategy for stabilizing oil-in-water nanoemulsions while preserving the functional properties of hemp seed oil, highlighting their potential as structured delivery systems for bioactive lipids.