In the first half of 2025, researchers around the world have published a wave of peer-reviewed studies examining the effects of cannabis and its various compounds on dozens of health conditions.
Scientists have looked at CBD, THC, CBG, THCV, and other cannabis components in studies related to cancer, chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety, gut health, and much more. Several investigations also tested novel formulations—such as nanoparticles, sprays, and microneedle patches—to improve how cannabis-based treatments are delivered and absorbed.
With that in mind, below is a list of the most important and impactful cannabis-related studies published so far in 2025.
Cannabinoids Attached to Gold Nanoparticles Kill Breast Cancer Cells More Effectively Than Standard Form
Published in International Journal of Pharmaceutics, this study found that cannabinoids bound to gold nanoparticles significantly enhanced their anticancer activity against breast cancer cells. The nanocarriers increased cellular uptake and tumor-killing effectiveness compared to cannabinoids alone.
CBD and CBDV Found to Kill Fungal Pathogens Including Cryptococcus and Dermatophytes
Published in Journal of Fungi, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabidivarin (CBDV) demonstrated strong antifungal activity against Cryptococcus species and dermatophytes. The cannabinoids disrupted fungal cell membranes and showed potential as alternatives to conventional antifungal drugs.
Cannabis Extract Reduces Inflammation in Human Skin Cells More Effectively Than CBD Alone
Published in Pharmaceuticals, this study found that full-spectrum cannabis extract outperformed isolated CBD in reducing inflammatory markers in human keratinocytes. The results support the “entourage effect” and suggest broader skin care applications for whole-plant formulations.
Clinical Trial Finds THC/CBD Spray Safe and Feasible for Treating Agitation in Alzheimer’s Patients
Published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity, this clinical trial found that a THC/CBD oromucosal spray was safe and well tolerated in Alzheimer’s patients with agitation. Although efficacy results were inconclusive, the treatment was feasible and did not worsen cognition or daily functioning.
3D-Printed CBD Stent Shows Promise for Localized Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Treatment
Published in Pharmaceutics, this study found that a 3D-printed ureteral stent infused with cannabidiol (CBD) effectively delivered the compound directly to the urinary tract, reducing inflammation and bacterial growth in a rat model. The localized delivery method may improve UTI treatment while minimizing systemic side effects.
CBD Reverses Memory Impairment and Brain Changes Linked to Schizophrenia-Like Symptoms
Published in Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) reversed memory deficits and brain alterations in rats with schizophrenia-like symptoms. Improvements were linked to changes in hippocampal function and reduced oxidative stress.
Cannabis-Based Treatments Associated With Seizure Freedom in Drug-Resistant Epilepsy Patients
Published in Neurology, this observational study found that nearly one-third of patients with drug-resistant epilepsy achieved seizure freedom using cannabis-based therapies. The majority also reported improved sleep, mood, and quality of life with minimal adverse effects.
Long-Term CBD Treatment Improves Memory and Reduces Brain Inflammation
Published in Brain Sciences, this study found that prolonged cannabidiol (CBD) treatment improved memory performance and reduced neuroinflammation in a rodent model of cognitive impairment. CBD appeared to enhance synaptic plasticity and protect against hippocampal damage.
Marijuana Legalization Not Linked to Increased Workplace Cannabis Use
A study published by the Institute for Work & Health (IWH) examined the impact of Canada’s 2018 legalization of adult-use marijuana on workplace cannabis consumption. The research found no significant change in the rates of employees using cannabis before or during work hours post-legalization. The authors emphasize the importance of distinguishing between off-duty use and on-the-job impairment, suggesting that workplace policies should focus on managing impairment rather than penalizing lawful, off-duty cannabis use.
Early Cannabis Use Not Linked to Increased Risk of Substance Abuse
Published in Addictive Behaviors, this systematic review of 16 longitudinal studies found that early cannabis use does not consistently increase the risk of developing substance use disorders for other drugs. While it may raise the likelihood of cannabis use disorder, the analysis found no strong evidence supporting the gateway theory linking early cannabis use to broader substance abuse.
CBD May Protect Against Chemotherapy-Induced Heart Damage
Published in Drug Design, Development and Therapy, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) may protect the heart from damage caused by the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin by activating the Hippo signaling pathway. In both cell and mouse models, CBD improved heart cell survival, reduced oxidative stress, and lowered cell death. These effects were reversed when the pathway was inhibited, confirming its key role in CBD’s protective action.
CBD Protects Against Some of the Toxic Effects of Cadmium
Published in Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, this study investigated cannabidiol’s (CBD) protective effects against cadmium-induced toxicity in mice. Researchers found that CBD mitigated oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver and kidneys by restoring antioxidant markers and reducing proinflammatory cytokines. Histological analysis confirmed tissue protection in these organs, though no protective effect was observed in testicular tissue.
High-Potency Cannabis Use Linked to Improved Mood and Decreased Anxiety, No Negative Impact on Emotional Regulation
Published in Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical & Experimental, this pilot study found that acute use of high-potency cannabis improved mood and reduced anxiety in young adult users without impairing their ability to regulate emotions. Participants showed no decline in performance on emotion regulation tasks while intoxicated, suggesting mood benefits without cognitive or emotional detriment.
CBD Induces Apoptosis and Inhibits Growth in Colorectal Cancer Cells, Regardless of Mutation
Published in ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) induces apoptosis and inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion in colorectal cancer cell lines with various mutations, including KRAS, BRAF, APC, and PTEN. The anticancer effects were mediated through CB2 receptor activation and involved endoplasmic reticulum stress, while sparing healthy intestinal organoids.
THCV and CBD Mucoadhesive Strips Linked to Weight Loss and Metabolic Benefits
Published in Cannabis, this placebo-controlled study found that daily use of mucoadhesive strips containing tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) and cannabidiol (CBD) led to significant weight loss and metabolic improvements over 90 days. Participants experienced reductions in abdominal girth, systolic blood pressure, and LDL cholesterol, with the higher dose (16 mg THCV/20 mg CBD) showing greater efficacy.
Cannabidiol Enhances Bone Marrow Recovery After Radiation Exposure
Published in MedComm, this study showed that cannabidiol (CBD) improved survival and restored bone marrow function in mice exposed to radiation. The treatment reactivated stem cell maintenance pathways by upregulating the transcription factor Atf2, suggesting CBD may have value as a radioprotective therapy.
CBD Nanoemulsion May Reverse Autism-Like Behaviors and Prevent Neural Damage
Published in Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences, this study showed that CBD delivered via nanoemulsion reversed autism-like behaviors and protected hippocampal neurons in a rat model of autism. The formulation improved bioavailability and led to enhanced social interaction, reduced anxiety, and better exploratory behavior.
CBD Hydrogel Microneedle Patch Has Obvious Therapeutic Effects for Psoriasis Patients
Published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, this study found that a CBD-infused hydrogel microneedle patch reduced inflammation, skin thickness, and scaling in a mouse model of psoriasis. The treatment suppressed TRIM14 and NF-κB signaling, outperforming conventional topical medication.
Marijuana Stores Reduce Opioid Deaths But Do Not Increase Suicides or Car Crashes
Published in Health Economics, this federally funded study analyzed 16 years of county-level data and found that the presence of recreational marijuana stores was associated with a reduction in opioid-related deaths. Importantly, there was no evidence linking these stores to an increase in suicide rates or traffic fatalities.
CBD Reduces Lung Damage in Blunt Chest Trauma
Published in the Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) reduced inflammation, oxidative stress, and tissue damage in rats after blunt chest trauma. CBD treatment lowered pro-inflammatory cytokines and improved lung structure, indicating protective effects in traumatic injury.
CBD May Help Kill Ovarian Cancer Cells by Disrupting Their Fat Metabolism
Published in Frontiers in Pharmacology, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) may kill ovarian cancer cells by interfering with lipid metabolism, specifically reducing the expression of CPT1A, a key enzyme in fatty acid oxidation. The findings suggest that CBD could be a promising therapeutic candidate for targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in ovarian cancer.
Nanotechnology-Enhanced CBD Delivery Shows Promise for Retinal Neuroprotection
Published in Pharmaceutics, this study demonstrated that cannabidiol (CBD) delivered through a nanostructured lipid carrier hydrogel protected retinal cells from degeneration in rats. The treatment reduced inflammation and oxidative stress, and the nanocarrier improved CBD bioavailability and sustained release in the eye.
Opening Recreational Marijuana Stores Has No Impact on Emergency Room Visits
Published in Health Economics Review, this study analyzed over 4,000 emergency room visits in Colorado and found that the opening of recreational marijuana stores did not lead to increased ER visits. The results challenge assumptions that legalization leads to a surge in emergency medical incidents.
CBD, THC and the Terpene Humulene Show Synergistic Anticancer Effects in Breast Cancer Models
Published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, this study found that the combination of CBD, THC, and the terpene humulene exhibited strong synergistic effects against breast cancer cells. The triple combination significantly reduced cancer cell viability and migration more effectively than any compound alone, suggesting enhanced therapeutic potential.
CBD and CBG Show Potential in Combating HER2-Positive Ovarian Cancer
Published in Cells, this study demonstrated that cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) inhibited the growth of HER2-positive ovarian cancer cells. The cannabinoids disrupted mitochondrial function, reduced cancer cell proliferation, and altered key signaling pathways, pointing to their promise as targeted treatments for aggressive ovarian tumors.
Combination of CBD and THC May Reduce Migraine Symptoms
Published in Phytotherapy Research, this study found that a 1:1 ratio of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) reduced the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks in patients with chronic migraines. The treatment also improved quality of life and sleep, with minimal side effects reported.
CBD-Coated Pillow Cover May Serve as an Effective Aid in Improving Sleep Quality
Published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, this randomized controlled trial found that individuals using a pillow cover coated with microencapsulated CBD experienced improvements in sleep duration and quality. The benefits were more pronounced among participants with sleep difficulties, suggesting a non-invasive method for CBD delivery.
Cannabigerol Inhibits Growth of Drug-Resistant Streptococcus iniae by Disrupting Cell Membranes
Published in Microorganisms, this study showed that cannabigerol (CBG) effectively killed drug-resistant Streptococcus iniae by damaging its cell membranes. The findings suggest CBG may serve as a novel antimicrobial agent against pathogens that threaten both aquaculture and human health.
CBD-Rich Cannabis Extract Outperforms Hydrocortisone in Reducing Skin Inflammation
Published in Toxics, this study found that a CBD-rich cannabis extract reduced markers of skin inflammation more effectively than hydrocortisone in a mouse model. The extract decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and showed antioxidant properties, suggesting it could be a safer and more effective alternative for inflammatory skin conditions.
CBD Shown to Prevent Tooth Decay in Laboratory Model
Published in ACS Omega, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) inhibited the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary bacterium responsible for tooth decay. In laboratory models, CBD reduced acid production, biofilm formation, and bacterial viability, indicating potential as a novel compound in oral hygiene products.
CBD Effective in Reducing Itching and Improving Quality of Life for Atopic Dermatitis Patients
Published in Dermatologic Therapy, this clinical study found that topical cannabidiol (CBD) significantly reduced itching severity and improved sleep, mood, and overall quality of life in patients with atopic dermatitis. The treatment was well tolerated, with no adverse effects reported during the 4-week study period.
Cannabinerol (CBNR) May Counteract Alzheimer’s-Related RNA Splicing Defects
Published in International Journal of Molecular Sciences, this study found that the rare cannabinoid cannabinerol (CBNR) restored normal RNA splicing in cell models affected by Alzheimer’s-related mutations. CBNR reversed gene expression abnormalities and showed potential as a therapeutic agent targeting molecular causes of neurodegeneration.
Largest-Ever Meta-Analysis of Medical Cannabis Finds Overwhelming Scientific Consensus for Treating Cancer Symptoms
Published in Frontiers in Pain Research, this meta-analysis of 43 studies concluded that medical cannabis is widely effective in managing cancer-related symptoms, especially pain, nausea, appetite loss, and sleep disturbances. The findings reflect a strong scientific consensus supporting cannabis as a safe and beneficial supportive therapy for cancer patients.
Cannabis Leaves Improve Taste and Quality of Kombucha by Enhancing Fermentation
Published in Foods, this study found that adding cannabis leaves to kombucha improved its flavor, antioxidant levels, and fermentation efficiency. The cannabis-enhanced kombucha showed higher levels of beneficial compounds and better sensory scores compared to control samples, suggesting added nutritional and commercial value.
Cannabis Callus Extract Shows Promise as Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Cosmetic Ingredient
Published in Pharmaceuticals, this study demonstrated that cannabis callus extract exhibited strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in human skin cell models. The extract significantly reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory markers, supporting its potential use in skincare formulations for soothing and protective benefits.
Nanoparticles Derived From Cannabis Leaves Show Strong Antibacterial and Antioxidant Properties
Published in Applied Nanoscience, this study found that silver nanoparticles synthesized using cannabis leaf extract exhibited strong antibacterial effects against multiple pathogens and showed significant antioxidant activity. These results highlight the potential of cannabis-based nanoparticles for biomedical and environmental applications.
CBD-Loaded Niosomes Show Promise for Retinal Protection
Published in Antioxidants, this study found that CBD encapsulated in niosomes effectively protected retinal cells from oxidative stress and degeneration in animal models. The delivery system enhanced CBD stability and bioavailability, making it a promising strategy for treating degenerative eye diseases.
THC/CBD Extract May Reduce Inflammation, Improve Movement After Spinal Cord Injury
Published in Pharmaceuticals, this study found that a THC and CBD extract reduced neuroinflammation and promoted motor function recovery in rats with spinal cord injury. The treatment also preserved nerve tissue and reduced pain sensitivity, indicating therapeutic potential for spinal trauma.
Newly Discovered Cannabinoids From Cannabis Flowers Show Antitumor Potential Against Neuroblastoma
Published in Pharmaceuticals, this study identified eleven previously unknown compounds from cannabis flowers, several of which demonstrated significant anti-tumor activity against neuroblastoma cells. Two cannabinoids showed especially strong inhibition of cancer cell viability, suggesting potential for future cancer treatments.
Cannabis Use Associated With Reduced Opioid Use in Patients With Chronic Pain and Anxiety
Published in Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids, this study found that chronic pain patients who used medical cannabis were significantly more likely to reduce or stop opioid use, especially among those with co-occurring anxiety. Participants reported better pain management and improved mental health outcomes with cannabis treatment.
Marijuana Legalization Not Linked to Increase in Car Accident Fatalities, Insurance Claims, or Average Claim Cost
Published in Health Economics, this study analyzed auto insurance and fatal crash data following marijuana legalization in multiple U.S. states. Researchers found no evidence that legalization led to higher accident fatality rates, increased claims, or higher average costs per claim, countering concerns about cannabis-related road risk.
Medical Cannabis Improved PTSD Symptoms, Anxiety, and Quality of Life Over an 18-Month Period
Published in Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, this long-term study found that medical cannabis significantly reduced PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and sleep disturbances in patients over an 18-month period. Most participants also reported improved overall quality of life and a decrease in the use of psychiatric medications.
Cannabis-Based Treatments Significantly Reduce Tics in Adults With Tourette Syndrome
Published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, this study found that THC-based treatments significantly reduced motor and vocal tics in adults with Tourette syndrome. The majority of patients experienced clinical improvement with minimal side effects, suggesting cannabis as a viable therapeutic option.
Cannabis Extracts Rich in CBC and THC Found to Kill Bladder Cancer Cells
Published in Current Oncology, this study found that cannabis extracts containing high levels of cannabichromene (CBC) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) induced apoptosis and inhibited the growth of bladder cancer cells in vitro. The results support further investigation into these cannabinoids for cancer therapy.
Far-Red Light Boosts In Vitro Marijuana Growth and Shoot Yield, Clemson Researchers Find
Published in Plants, this Clemson University study found that far-red light enhanced the in vitro growth of marijuana plants, increasing both shoot number and biomass. The results suggest that far-red supplementation can optimize micropropagation techniques for cannabis cultivation.
Clinical Trial: CBD Improves Naming Function in People With Parkinson’s Disease
Published in Journal of Psychopharmacology, this randomized clinical trial found that cannabidiol (CBD) improved verbal fluency—specifically naming function—in patients with Parkinson’s disease. The results suggest cognitive benefits in addition to CBD’s previously noted effects on mood and motor symptoms.
