Cannabis sativa L. in the cosmeceutical industry: prospects and biotechnological approaches for metabolite improvement

Plants have historically been used as primary sources of phytochemicals with nutritional, medicinal, cultural and cosmetic applications. Scientific advancements involving the human endocannabinoid system have cata-lyzed the search for innovative and targeted therapies utilizing cannabis-based medicines. It is important to optimize production on a large scale for incorporation of bioactive compounds in the cosmeceutical industry production line, and biotechnology has the potential to be an effective tool for the sustainable supply of plant components for the cosmetic industry. This review focuses on the recent developments of Cannabis sativa potential applications in this industrial segment and how plant biotechnology can be an ally for the market to obtain better quality raw materials and improve the production of compounds of interest, since plant tis-sue culture can pave the way for meeting the industrial demand of pharmaceutically valuable secondary metabolites, such as cannabinoids.& COPY; 2023 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of SAAB.

Automated summary

Plants have long been utilized as primary sources of phytochemicals with various applications in nutrition, medicine, culture, and cosmetics. The emergence of scientific advancements related to the human endocannabinoid system has led to the exploration of cannabis-based medicines for innovative and targeted therapies. In the context of the cosmetic industry, optimizing large-scale production and incorporating bioactive compounds is crucial, and plant biotechnology presents a promising approach for sustainable supply. This review highlights the potential applications of Cannabis sativa in the cosmetic industry and emphasizes how plant biotechnology can enhance the production of valuable compounds.