The early months of 2025 have seen a surge of research centered on cannabidiol (CBD), with studies investigating its role in treating a variety of health conditions.
As interest in CBD continues to grow across both medical and therapeutic markets, researchers have been examining its effects on everything from neurological disorders to substance use and chronic pain.
While CBD is now widely accessible, questions remain about its full range of benefits and limitations. So far this year, several studies have offered important new data. Here’s a look at some of the most significant CBD-focused research published in 2025.
CBD Nanoemulsion May Reverse Autism-Like Behaviors and Prevent Neural Damage
Published in Annals of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) delivered via nanoemulsion improved sociability, reduced anxiety, and preserved hippocampal neurons in rats with valproic acid-induced autism-like behaviors. The enhanced delivery method improved CBD’s bioavailability and therapeutic effects.
CBD Hydrogel Microneedle Patch Has Obvious Therapeutic Effects for Psoriasis Patients
Published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, this study found that a cannabidiol (CBD) hydrogel microneedle patch reduced skin inflammation, thickening, and scaling in a mouse model of psoriasis. The patch suppressed TRIM14 and NF-κB signaling, outperforming conventional treatments like Tacrolimus cream.
Clinical Trial Finds CBD Vaporization Doesn’t Negatively Impact Driving Performance and Vision
Published in Psychopharmacology, this randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial found that vaporized cannabidiol (CBD) at doses of 100 mg and 300 mg had no significant effect on simulated driving performance, visual function, or cognitive measures. The results suggest that CBD, unlike THC, does not impair abilities relevant to safe driving.
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 following blunt chest trauma. CBD treatment led to improved lung structure and decreased levels of pro-inflammatory markers.
CBD May Help Kill Ovarian Cancer Cells by Disrupting Their Fat Metabolism
Published in Frontiers in Pharmacology, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) suppressed the viability of ovarian cancer cells by disrupting fatty acid metabolism. CBD inhibited CPT1A, a key enzyme involved in fat oxidation, leading to cell death and reduced cancer growth in lab models.
Nanotechnology-Enhanced CBD Delivery Shows Promise for Retinal Neuroprotection
Published in Pharmaceutics, this study demonstrated that CBD delivered through a nanostructured lipid carrier hydrogel protected retinal cells in rats from oxidative stress and degeneration. The nanocarrier enhanced CBD’s bioavailability and sustained release, making it a promising tool for treating eye diseases.
CBD May Protect Against Chemotherapy-Induced Heart Damage
Published in Drug Design, Development and Therapy, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) activated the Hippo signaling pathway to reduce doxorubicin-induced heart damage in mice. CBD improved heart cell survival, reduced oxidative stress, and protected against chemotherapy-related cardiac injury.
CBD Inhibits Cancer Cell Growth and Promotes Cell Death in Cholangiocarcinoma Cells
Published in Scientific Reports, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) inhibited the growth and proliferation of cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) cells. CBD triggered apoptosis and reduced the viability of cancer cells, indicating its potential as a therapeutic agent in hard-to-treat liver cancers.
Full-Spectrum CBD Oil Reduces Key Markers of Muscle Damage in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Published in Muscle & Nerve, this study found that full-spectrum CBD oil reduced inflammation, fibrosis, and muscle damage in mice with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The treatment improved muscle structure, decreased macrophage activity, and lowered creatine kinase levels, indicating potential for therapeutic use.
CBD Protects Against Some of the Toxic Effects of Cadmium
Published in Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) protected mice from liver and kidney damage caused by cadmium exposure. CBD reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in these organs, though no protective effect was observed in testicular tissue.
Mouthwash With CBD and Spilanthol Significantly Improves Oral Health Markers in Gingivitis Patients
Published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, this clinical trial found that a CBD- and spilanthol-infused mouthwash significantly reduced gum bleeding, plaque buildup, and inflammation in patients with gingivitis after four weeks of use.
CBD May Protect Against Epilepsy-Related Neuronal Death by Blocking Toxic Astrocytes
Published in Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) helped protect neurons in a rat model of epilepsy by preventing astrocytes from transitioning into a neurotoxic state. The findings support CBD’s neuroprotective potential in epilepsy treatment.
CBD May Counteract Negative Effects of High-Calorie Diet, Improve Insulin Regulation
Published in Antioxidants, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) improved glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and pancreatic structure in mice fed a high-calorie diet. CBD also reduced inflammation and oxidative stress, suggesting therapeutic potential for metabolic disorders.
CBD Reduces Nerve Pain and Improves Memory by Activating Pain and Mood Receptors
Published in Phytotherapy Research, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) reduced nerve pain and improved memory in mice by activating serotonin 5-HT1A and cannabinoid CB1 receptors. The dual effects suggest potential for treating chronic pain with cognitive symptoms.
CBD Effective in Reducing Itching and Improving Quality of Life for Atopic Dermatitis Patients
Published in Dermatologic Therapy, this study showed that topical cannabidiol (CBD) significantly reduced itch severity and improved sleep, mood, and overall quality of life in patients with atopic dermatitis after four weeks of use.
CBD Shown to Prevent Tooth Decay in Laboratory Model
Published in ACS Omega, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) inhibited the growth and acid production of Streptococcus mutans, the primary bacterium responsible for tooth decay. CBD also reduced biofilm formation, suggesting its potential for oral health applications.
CBD-Rich Cannabis Extract Outperforms Hydrocortisone in Reducing Skin Inflammation
Published in Toxics, this study found that a CBD-rich cannabis extract more effectively reduced skin inflammation in a mouse model than hydrocortisone. The extract decreased inflammatory markers and showed antioxidant activity, highlighting its potential for dermatological use.
Purified CBD Improved Symptoms in Over 80% of Children With Severe, Treatment-Resistant Autism
Published in Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, this study found that purified cannabidiol (CBD) significantly improved behavioral symptoms in children with severe, treatment-resistant autism. Ninety percent of participants showed improvement in at least one symptom, with 40% reducing or discontinuing other medications.
3D-Printed CBD Gummies Show Enhanced Bioavailability and Precise Dosing, Study Finds
Published in International Journal of Pharmaceutics, this study found that 3D-printed CBD gummies provided more consistent dosing and greater bioavailability compared to conventionally manufactured gummies. The printing technology allowed for customizable shapes, dosages, and release profiles, enhancing delivery efficiency and user control.
THC/CBD Extract May Reduce Inflammation, Improve Movement After Spinal Cord Injury
Published in Pharmaceuticals, this study found that a combined THC and CBD extract reduced inflammation, preserved spinal cord tissue, and improved motor function in a rat model of spinal cord injury. The extract also decreased pain sensitivity, suggesting therapeutic potential for neurotrauma recovery.
Full-Spectrum CBD Reduces Alcohol Cravings and Improves Mood in People With Alcohol Use Disorder
Published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, this study found that full-spectrum CBD oil significantly reduced alcohol cravings and anxiety in individuals with alcohol use disorder. Participants reported improved mood and stress resilience, suggesting CBD’s potential as a supportive treatment in addiction recovery.
Injectable CBD Implant Shows Promise in Treating Aggressive Breast Cancer, Study Finds
Published in Pharmaceutics, this study demonstrated that an injectable CBD-loaded polymer implant effectively inhibited tumor growth and reduced inflammation in mice with triple-negative breast cancer. The localized delivery allowed for sustained release and higher tumor-site concentrations.
CBD-Infused Hydrogel Promotes Healing in Radiation and Wound-Induced Skin Injury
Published in Antioxidants, this study found that a CBD-infused hydrogel accelerated healing, reduced inflammation, and minimized oxidative stress in mice with skin injuries caused by radiation or physical trauma. The treatment also improved collagen production and tissue repair.
Inhalable CBD Powder Formulated With Methyl-β-Cyclodextrin Shows Superior Delivery Performance
Published in AAPS PharmSciTech, this study found that a powdered form of CBD using methyl-β-cyclodextrin offered improved solubility, high pulmonary absorption, and stability under humid conditions. The formulation showed promise for fast, efficient inhalation-based delivery.
CBD May Improve Sleep Patterns Disrupted by Anesthesia
Published in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) restored circadian rhythms and normalized sleep quality in mice following general anesthesia. CBD reduced sleep fragmentation and promoted deeper, more restorative rest.
CBD Found to Significantly Reduce Seizures Across Multiple Forms of Drug-Resistant Epilepsy in New Study
Published in The Lancet Neurology, this clinical study found that cannabidiol (CBD) led to a significant reduction in seizure frequency in patients with various types of drug-resistant epilepsy. Many participants experienced a 50% or greater improvement, with good tolerability.
Gel-Based CBD Reduces Stress in Shelter Dogs, Shows Promise for Veterinary Use
Published in Veterinary Sciences, this study found that a gel-based cannabidiol (CBD) supplement significantly reduced stress behaviors in shelter dogs. Treated dogs showed lower cortisol levels, less barking, and improved relaxation, supporting CBD’s potential for use in veterinary behavioral care.
CBD-Loaded Nanoparticles Show Potential for Treating Metabolic Disorders
Published in Nanomedicine: Nanotechnology, Biology and Medicine, this study found that CBD-loaded nanoparticles improved insulin sensitivity, glucose regulation, and mitochondrial function in a mouse model of metabolic syndrome. The nanoformulation increased CBD bioavailability and targeted therapeutic effects.
CBD Significantly Reduces Pain and Inflammation in Patients With Temporomandibular Disorder
Published in Frontiers in Pain Research, this randomized controlled trial found that topical cannabidiol (CBD) gel reduced jaw pain and inflammation in patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Participants experienced improved mouth mobility and pain scores with no major side effects.
CBD-Coated Pillow Cover May Serve as an Effective Aid in Improving Sleep Quality
Published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, this study found that microencapsulated CBD on pillow covers improved sleep quality, particularly in individuals with moderate sleep disturbances. Participants reported longer sleep duration and fewer nighttime awakenings after several weeks of use.
CBD-Loaded Niosomes Show Promise for Retinal Protection in Groundbreaking New Study
Published in Antioxidants, this study demonstrated that CBD encapsulated in niosomes protected retinal cells from oxidative stress and degeneration in animal models. The delivery system improved CBD’s stability and penetration, suggesting potential for treating retinal diseases.
CBD, THC and the Terpene Humulene Show Synergistic Anticancer Effects in Breast Cancer Models
Published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, this study found that combining cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and the terpene humulene produced strong synergistic effects against breast cancer cells. The trio significantly reduced cell viability and migration compared to any compound used alone.
CBD and CBG Show Potential in Combating HER2-Positive Ovarian Cancer
Published in Cells, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) disrupted mitochondrial function and key signaling pathways in HER2-positive ovarian cancer cells, leading to reduced cell growth. The results highlight their potential as targeted therapies 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 CBD and THC reduced both the frequency and intensity of migraines in patients. Participants also reported better sleep and quality of life, with minimal side effects from the treatment.
CBD Reduces Stress-Induced Liver Damage by Improving Mitochondrial Function and Reducing Inflammation
Published in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) protected against liver damage caused by chronic stress in mice. CBD improved mitochondrial function, reduced oxidative stress, and suppressed inflammatory markers, supporting its potential in managing stress-related liver conditions.
Sublingual CBD Improves COVID-19 Outcomes
Published in Cureus, this clinical study found that hospitalized COVID-19 patients receiving sublingual cannabidiol (CBD) experienced shorter hospital stays, reduced inflammation, and lower ICU admission rates compared to a control group. The findings suggest CBD’s potential in supporting viral recovery.
Clinical Trial: CBD Improves Naming Function in People With Parkinson’s Disease
Published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, this randomized clinical trial found that cannabidiol (CBD) improved verbal fluency—specifically naming ability—in patients with Parkinson’s disease. These cognitive improvements add to previous findings on CBD’s benefits for motor and mood symptoms in the condition.
Cannabidiol (CBD) Therapy Could Reduce Symptoms in Autistic Children and Teenagers, Finds Study
Published in Scientific Reports, this study found that CBD-rich cannabis extracts led to behavioral improvements in autistic children and teenagers, including enhanced social interaction, reduced anxiety, and improved sleep. The treatment was well tolerated with minimal side effects reported.
CBD Inhibits Growth of Aggressive Breast Cancer Cells and Triggers Cell Death
Published in Journal of Molecular Sciences, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) suppressed the growth of triple-negative breast cancer cells and induced apoptosis by modulating oxidative stress and cellular signaling pathways. The results support CBD’s potential role in cancer therapy.
