Fungal infections are among the most common, yet also among the least openly discussed, health issues. Whether it’s nail fungus, athlete’s foot, Candida infections, or fungal skin infections, many people find these conditions unpleasant or embarrassing. At the same time, fungal infections are often stubborn and may return again and again despite treatment.
Alongside conventional antifungal medications, plant-based compounds have increasingly moved into the focus of research in recent years. In particular, cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) from the hemp plant are being studied for their potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. But how exactly might CBD and CBG oil work in cases of fungal infection, and what does the science say?
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment.
What are fungal infections?
Fungi are microorganisms found almost everywhere, in the environment, on the skin, and also in the human body. Most are harmless or even part of a healthy microbiome. Under certain conditions, however, disease-causing fungi can multiply and trigger infections.
Common fungal infections include:
● Athlete’s foot and nail fungus
● Fungal skin infections (e.g., tinea corporis)
● Candida infections (skin, mucous membranes, vaginal area)
● Jock itch (tinea cruris)
In most cases, these infections are not life-threatening, but they can be long-lasting, recurrent, and highly distressing for those affected (1). More severe fungal infections that enter the bloodstream are less common and require urgent medical treatment.
Conventional antifungal medications, effective, but not always well tolerated
The standard treatment for fungal infections usually involves antifungal agents used either topically (creams, ointments) or systemically (tablets). Many of these medications target the fungal cell membrane, especially ergosterol, which is essential for the stability of the fungal cell (2).
Despite their effectiveness, antifungal medications are not without drawbacks. Oral preparations in particular may cause side effects (3), including:
● Gastrointestinal discomfort
● Skin reactions
● Fatigue or general malaise
● Interactions with other medications
These factors lead many people to look for complementary or alternative approaches, especially in cases of recurring or mild fungal infections.
CBD and CBG for fungal infections: what do we know?
Cannabinoids such as CBD and CBG are plant compounds from hemp that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system plays an important role in regulating inflammation, immune responses, and skin health.
In addition, there are preclinical studies suggesting that certain cannabinoids may have antifungal properties. A frequently cited study reported that cannabinoids such as CBD, CBG, and CBC were able to inhibit the growth of various fungal species in laboratory experiments (4).
It’s important to put this into context:
● Most findings come from in vitro studies (cell and lab experiments).
● Clinical studies in humans are still limited.
● CBD and CBG are not currently medically equivalent to conventional antifungal drugs.
Even so, these results suggest that cannabinoids have scientifically relevant potential.
The role of terpenes: more than just aromatic compounds
In addition to cannabinoids, full-spectrum hemp extracts also contain terpenes, aromatic plant compounds with their own biological properties. Some terpenes found in hemp are also being studied for potential antifungal effects.
Especially relevant are:
● α-Pinene
● β-Caryophyllene
● Δ-3-Carene
Studies suggest that β-caryophyllene, in particular, was able to show an inhibitory effect on certain fungal species in laboratory tests within just a few hours (5). These findings support the idea that full-spectrum products may have a broader range of effects than isolated single compounds due to the so-called entourage effect.
Which CBD or CBG products might be suitable?
Which product form makes sense depends heavily on the type of fungal infection:
Skin fungus or athlete’s foot: Topical CBD skincare such as creams, ointments, or oils for external use
Support from within: Full-spectrum CBD or CBG oil taken as a complementary approach
CBG oil as an alternative:
Because of its pronounced antimicrobial properties, CBG is increasingly being researched as a particularly promising candidate.
Many users subjectively report good experiences with a combination of topical application and internal support (6). However, these anecdotal reports are not yet scientifically confirmed.
Conclusion: CBD and CBG for fungal infections, promising, but not a substitute for treatment
CBD and CBG oils show antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties in preclinical studies, making them interesting research subjects in the context of fungal infections. Especially in combination with terpenes from full-spectrum extracts, synergistic effects may be possible.
At the same time:
● Human evidence is still limited
● CBD and CBG are not approved medications for fungal infections
● Persistent or severe symptoms should always be medically evaluated
As a complementary approach, or for mild skin-related issues, hemp-based products may represent an additional option, especially for people looking for well-tolerated alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Does CBD help with fungal infections?
There are preclinical indications of antifungal properties of CBD, but clinical evidence in humans is limited. CBD therefore cannot be considered a proven therapy.
Is CBD strongly anti-inflammatory?
CBD is associated with anti-inflammatory effects in numerous studies, particularly through its influence on immune and inflammatory processes.
Sources
1. Brown, G. D., Denning, D. W., Gow, N. A. R., Levitz, S. M., Netea, M. G., & White, T. C. (2012). Hidden killers: Human fungal infections. Science Translational Medicine, 4(165), 165rv13. https://doi.org/10.1126/scitranslmed.3004404
2. Odds, F. C., Brown, A. J. P., & Gow, N. A. R. (2003). Antifungal agents: Mechanisms of action. Trends in Microbiology, 11(6), 272–279. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0966-842X(03)00117-3
3. Lewis, R. E. (2011). Current concepts in antifungal pharmacology. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 86(8), 805–817. https://doi.org/10.4065/mcp.2011.0247
4. Appendino, G., Gibbons, S., Giana, A., Pagani, A., Grassi, G., Stavri, M., Smith, E., & Rahman, M. M. (2008). Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: A structure–activity study. Journal of Natural Products, 71(8), 1427–1430. https://doi.org/10.1021/np8002673
5. Pattnaik, S., Subramanyam, V. R., & Kole, C. R. (1997). Antibacterial and antifungal activity of ten essential oils in vitro. Microbios, 89(358), 39–46.
6. Burstein, S. (2015). Cannabidiol (CBD) and its analogs: A review of their effects on inflammation. Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry, 23(7), 1377–1385. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bmc.2015.01.059
