The Most Important CBD Studies Published So Far in 2025
Of these studies, some stand out as being particular important and/or impactful.
With that in mind, below is a breakdown of what we consider to be the top 50 CBD studies so far this year.
A clinical trial indicated that CBD supplementation may reduce systolic blood pressure in adults, pointing to its possible role in cardiovascular health management. Researchers note the need for larger, longer-term trials.
An open-label, six-week pilot (n=12) using 30 mg/day full-spectrum sublingual CBD reported notable anxiety reduction with improvements in sleep and quality of life, no serious adverse events, and a call for larger placebo-controlled trials.
A study from the University of Haifa found that in Alzheimer’s-model rats, chronic CBD reversed memory decline and reduced inflammation and Alzheimer’s-related brain pathology (amyloid plaques, tau) largely via CB1 receptor activation.
Published in Neurotherapeutics, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) protects brain cells in a Parkinson’s disease model by activating the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway, offering neuroprotection without interfering with motor benefits from standard treatments.
Published in IUBMB Life, this in vitro study by researchers at Kyung Hee University found that CBD suppresses metastatic behaviors in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cell lines by downregulating the long non-coding RNA MALAT1 and reversing epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). CBD reduced expression of invasion-related proteins (CXCR4, CXCR7, MMP-2, MMP-9), increased levels of epithelial markers (E-cadherin, Occludin), and decreased mesenchymal markers (Snail, Vimentin). When combined with low-dose gemcitabine, CBD demonstrated a synergistic suppression of these pathways without notable toxicity—highlighting its potential to enhance chemotherapy effectiveness at the molecular level.
Published in Journal of Clinical Neurology, this clinical trial found that a topical CBD gel significantly reduced migraine frequency and severity in individuals suffering from bruxism-related muscle pain—and also improved sleep quality in affected participants.
In a rosacea animal model, cannabidiol (CBD) significantly reduced skin redness, inflammation, and mast cell infiltration—effects that were enhanced when combined with the antibiotic metronidazole. The study identified suppression of MAPK signaling (ERK, JNK, p38) and reduced proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine production as key mechanisms in CBD’s therapeutic action.
Published in Neurotherapeutics, this study showed that cannabidiol (CBD) protects neuronal cells in a Parkinson’s disease model by activating the Nrf2-mediated antioxidant defense pathway. The results suggest CBD may offer neuroprotective benefits in neurodegenerative conditions.
Published in Epilepsy & Behavior Reports, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) treatment significantly reduced seizure frequency in patients with focal epilepsy—including those with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)—and maintained these benefits over time. Additionally, many patients were able to reduce their doses of other antiepileptic medications without an increase in adverse events.
Findings suggest CBD may help mitigate alcohol dependency and its neurotoxic effects. Animal models showed reduced alcohol consumption and signs of brain protection, pointing to CBD’s potential as part of alcohol use disorder treatment.
A new study found that CBD significantly reduced anxiety symptoms in cats exposed to thunderstorm simulations. Improvements included decreased hiding, lower stress-related behaviors, and notably less inappropriate urination during and after storms.
Cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabidivarin (CBDV) were found to disrupt fungal cell walls and inhibit growth of several pathogenic strains, including those resistant to common antifungal drugs. The findings suggest these cannabinoids may serve as novel antifungal agents in future therapies.
New findings suggest that cannabinol (CBN) could promote brain health by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing neuronal survival. The study highlights CBN’s neuroprotective potential, particularly in conditions involving cellular damage.
A preclinical study suggests that CBD could offer cardioprotective benefits by enhancing mitochondrial efficiency and lowering inflammation markers associated with heart failure. The results point to the cannabinoid’s potential as a supportive therapy for cardiac conditions.
A rodent model in Neurotherapeutics revealed that micro-dose CBD revitalizes synaptic proteins in the prefrontal cortex, reversing depression-like behaviors caused by chronic stress—indicating antidepressant potential at low dosages.
Engineers developed a 3D-printed ureteral stent infused with CBD, which delivered the compound directly to the urinary tract in rats. The localized approach effectively reduced inflammation and bacterial growth, suggesting a novel UTI treatment method.
In rodent models, continuous CBD use enhanced memory performance and decreased neuroinflammatory markers. These findings, published in Brain Sciences, support the use of CBD for preserving cognitive function over time.
Over a 12-month trial in pediatric patients, a CBD-rich oil significantly decreased seizure frequency. Most children saw sustained improvements in seizure control and overall functioning, with the treatment showing a favorable safety profile throughout the study.
In a trial published in Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, autistic children treated with daily CBD oil showed marked improvements in behavioral symptoms and a reduction in oxidative stress markers—offering hope for better-targeted support in ASD.
Published in Scientific Reports, researchers observed that CBD-rich extracts led to behavioral improvements among autistic children and adolescents. Participants showed enhancements in social interaction, reductions in anxiety, and better sleep quality. The treatment was well tolerated, with only a few mild side effects reported.
Published in Antioxidants, this study found that a CBD-infused hydrogel accelerated skin healing, reduced inflammation, and minimized oxidative damage in rats with radiation and wound injuries. The treatment also boosted collagen production and tissue repair, highlighting its potential for dermatological and recovery applications.
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.
Published in Muscle & Nerve, this study found that full-spectrum cannabidiol (CBD) oil may help treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). In vitro tests showed dose-dependent cytotoxic effects, but in vivo administration to mdx mice at 10 mg/kg per day for 14 days was safe and led to significant improvements in muscle pathology. The treatment reduced central nuclei, IgG+ myofibers, inflammatory areas, and fibrosis in diaphragm and quadriceps muscles, while increasing myofiber size and reducing macrophage presence and NF-κB levels. Serum creatine kinase levels, a marker of muscle damage, were also lowered.
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.
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.
Published in the Journal of Proteomics, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) causes significant structural damage to bacterial cell walls and membranes in strains like Bacillus licheniformis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus faecium. CBD disrupted key metabolic pathways and altered protein expression, suggesting a novel antibacterial mechanism that could serve as an alternative to traditional antibiotics.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Published in Frontiers in Pain Research, this randomized controlled trial found that topical CBD gel significantly reduced pain intensity and improved jaw function in patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD). The treatment also decreased local inflammation and was well tolerated, with no serious adverse effects reported.
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.
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.
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.
Findings show CBD treatment alleviated anxiety-like behaviors and reduced neuroinflammation in offspring of obese mothers, pointing to its therapeutic potential in mitigating intergenerational health risks.
Published in Phytotherapy Research, this study found that cannabidiol (CBD) reduced neuropathic pain and improved memory in mice by activating serotonin 5-HT1A and cannabinoid CB1 receptors. The results suggest CBD may offer dual benefits for managing chronic pain and cognitive dysfunction.
Published in Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, this study found that CBD reduced neuronal damage in a rat model of epilepsy by preventing astrocytes from transitioning into a neurotoxic state. The results suggest a new mechanism through which CBD may offer neuroprotection in epilepsy.
Published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, this clinical trial found that a mouthwash containing CBD and spilanthol significantly reduced gum bleeding, plaque, and inflammation in patients with gingivitis after 4 weeks of use. The treatment was safe and well tolerated.
CBD-rich cannabis improved behavioral and communication challenges in individuals with autism spectrum disorder, supporting its potential as a therapeutic option.
Laboratory testing found CBD suppressed both the growth and biofilm development of Candida albicans, suggesting new antifungal applications for CBD in managing resistant infections.
Veterinary research showed CBD improved mobility and reduced pain in dogs with osteoarthritis, suggesting a safe and effective treatment option for pets with joint conditions.
Long-term CBD administration was linked to reduced blood pressure, improved vascular function, and lower inflammation, suggesting CBD’s potential in supporting cardiovascular wellness.