Latest studies on CBD | Why Is CBD Still Trending?
Written by Beatrice Naujokaite & Reviewed by Paul Holmes.
Agenda:
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant, believed to offer some of the benefits typically attributed to THC - such as improving sleep quality, reducing pain, and helping manage anxiety- but importantly without inducing the psychoactive “high” often linked to marijuana.
Historically, hemp has been used for cooking, fabric, and other everyday applications all around the world. In fact, according to historical surveys, cannabis has a two-millennia-long record of medicinal use (Russo et al., 2007).
It was even listed as a licensed medicine in the United States for roughly a century, until it was withdrawn from the U.S. Pharmacopeia in the mid-1900s.
With this historical background, today’s surge in CBD interest can be seen as a revival of some well-established traditions.
Recent Scientific & Clinical Updates (2022–2024)
Epilepsy and Beyond
One prominent area of CBD research is epilepsy. Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) are two severe, rare seizure disorders that are often resistant to conventional treatments.
In 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Epidiolex, the first cannabis-derived medication, for these conditions (FDA, 2018). This formulation relies on highly purified CBD to reduce seizure frequency in affected children. Recent observations from 2022–2024 have explored whether CBD can help people with other drug-resistant epilepsies or even certain movement disorders like Tourette syndrome.
A systematic review of research on epilepsy management using CBD formulations found that cannabidiols can effectively reduce seizure frequency while exhibiting a lower side-effect profile than most standard epilepsy medications (Mukhtar et al., 2025).
Sleep Improvement and Insomnia
People commonly turn to CBD for sleep-related issues. Preliminary studies suggest it may enhance perceived sleep quality, reduce stress, and boost overall life satisfaction.
One trial conducted over eight weeks noted that administering 50 mg of oral CBD to healthy young adults significantly improved subjective sleep scores, though it did not prolong total sleep duration (Kisiolek et al., 2023).
Experts like Dr. Perlman point out that many individuals fall asleep faster when they incorporate CBD extract into their nighttime routine, with some also reporting fewer awakenings, quicker transition into REM sleep.
Pain Management and Inflammation
Chronic pain, defined as pain lasting three months or longer, is sometimes treated with opioid medications that are highly addictive.
Research increasingly suggests CBD might be a safer alternative for several types of persistent pain, including neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and arthritic discomfort. At its core, cannabidiol appears to have potential anti-inflammatory effects by partially modulating cytokines, the signaling molecules involved in inflammation.
Because inflammation is a key contributor to many types of chronic pain, reducing it can help alleviate pain. A systematic review published in Cureus (Villanueva, M.R. et al., 2022) concluded that CBD, especially in its pure form, shows promise for relieving chronic pain without the addictive potential often associated with opioids.
Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders
CBD’s potential to alleviate anxiety is another major driver of its popularity. Several studies exploring high daily doses have found notable reductions in social anxiety symptoms, with researchers attributing these effects partly to CBD’s interaction with serotonin (5-HT1A) receptors.
A 2024 systematic review (Han et al., 2024) also highlighted CBD’s favorable impact on generalized anxiety, panic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
In preclinical models, CBD modulates various receptors—such as CB1, TRPV1, and 5-HT1A - that all play roles in regulating mood and stress responses. Clinical data further indicates that longer-term CBD use can reduce anxiety scores by up to 25% or more, with minimal negative effects on cognition (Crippa et al., 2011).
This profile makes CBD an interesting option for individuals hoping to avoid the sedation or dependence sometimes associated with conventional anti-anxiety medications.
Mental Health, Psychosis, and Addiction
Beyond anxiety, a growing body of work investigates CBD’s role in psychosis.
Preliminary studies propose that higher doses of CBD could benefit people at high risk of psychosis by improving certain cognitive or behavioral markers. Additionally, there is curiosity about CBD’s impact on addiction.
Animal research and some early human data suggest it may help curb cravings for substances such as nicotine and opioids, though these findings are far from definitive.
As smoking and opioid dependence remain global public health challenges, CBD may one day be a hopeful target for treatment.
Cancer-Related Applications
Researchers also continue to assess how CBD may ease chemotherapy-induced nausea.
Higher-strength CBD extracts could help reduce the discomfort that cancer patients face during treatment (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2017).
For now, most experts agree that while CBD can aid with certain cancer-related symptoms- primarily nausea and pain- the evidence on direct anti-cancer properties is still insufficient.
Balancing Benefits and Risks
Overall, CBD tends to be well-tolerated, producing fewer side effects than many pharmaceutical medications used for epilepsy, anxiety, or chronic pain, stomach upset or drowsiness can occur, especially with high doses or prolonged use, but significant adverse effects seem relatively low.
It is important to not replace your existing medication with a supplement, as this could put your health at risk. However, using supplements alongside your existing medication may be beneficial in some instances.
Always consult with your doctor to see if CBD can be taken with your medications.
Market Overview
The global cannabidiol (CBD) market has seen remarkable expansion. Forecasts suggest a projected increase of USD 44.56 billion between 2023 and 2028, translating to an estimated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.59% over that period.
This surge is largely attributed to the relaxation of legal restrictions in various regions, along with growing consumer awareness of CBD’s potential benefits for stress reduction, pain relief, and general wellness.
At the same time, the market faces certain obstacles, such as high production costs for premium CBD oil, which can deter budget-conscious consumers.
Nonetheless, continued legalisation, product diversification, and the popularity of online retail channels are poised to foster ongoing market innovation and growth.
Regulatory Status & Industry Overview
Market Drivers & Trends
- Easing Legal Restrictions: Many jurisdictions, primarily in North America, have softened laws related to cannabinoid products, fueling demand and encouraging both existing and new brands to expand.
- Product Diversity & E-commerce: A wider array of products- from oils to cosmetics, chocolates, and gummies - makes CBD more accessible and appealing to consumers. E-commerce platforms amplify this accessibility, allowing consumers to research and purchase products online.
- Challenges: Premium CBD remains costly to produce, which may price out certain consumers. Additionally, fragmented or evolving regulations can create market uncertainty.
- Future Outlook: Despite obstacles, the growing acceptance of CBD hints at new opportunities for manufacturers, especially as they innovate more budget-friendly product lines. These include edible options like gummies, chocolates, and topical products such as lotions and lip balms.
- Balances gut microbiota, encouraging better digestive health.
- Convenient and easy-to-swallow capsules for everyday use.
United Kingdom
CBD consumption in the UK continues to rise as a result of wide-ranging product availability, including tinctures, vape cartridges, beverages, and confections.
A consumer survey from August 2023 found that approximately one in five adults had tried a CBD product, although usage varied significantly by generation—nearly 39% among younger adults (Gen Z) but only about 6% among Baby Boomers (Mintel, Vitamins and Supplements UK, November 2023).
- Regulatory Framework (Novel Food Status): The UK classifies CBD as a “novel food,” requiring companies to undergo a stringent authorisation process. This ensures product safety and standardization, but can slow new product entry.
- Consumer Behavior: Younger demographics treat CBD similarly to popular vitamins and supplements (e.g., vitamin D, multivitamins).
Japan
Shifting Legal Landscape: Traditionally, Japan permitted CBD isolates under stringent THC limits, effectively prohibiting most full-spectrum hemp extracts.
Growing Interest & Research
- Consumer Demand: Stress management, sleep assistance, and skincare are key motivators for Japanese consumers. Specialised clinics in urban centers like Tokyo and Osaka have begun offering CBD-based therapies for mild anxiety and insomnia.
- Government Support: The Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare supports pilot studies, especially on sleep disorders. These endeavors could lead to revised laws by 2025, making regulated CBD more accessible.
- Preference for Domestic Products: Japanese shoppers often favor “Made in Japan” merchandise, particularly if they are assured the products are THC-free (Yano Research; GVB Biopharma). This local emphasis shapes both branding and manufacturing strategies.
Germany & the Wider EU
Within the European Union, Germany stands out as one of the largest and most influential markets. Alongside other EU countries, it is witnessing substantial growth in consumer demand for CBD, especially in supplements, wellness items, and skincare.
- Market Expansion: Analysts project sustained double-digit CAGR for the European CBD market through 2027. Consumer awareness regarding CBD’s potential applications for stress relief, minor pain, and sleep support contributes to ongoing demand.
- Skincare Market: The global skincare market has experienced rapid growth since post-pandemic times, driven by increasing interest in longevity, health and natural beauty. Because CBD is a non-toxic derivative of the cannabis plant, it is gaining traction among higher-spending consumers who seek organic skincare. Due to its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, CBD oil is emerging as a sought-after ingredient for addressing acne, eczema, redness, and even signs of aging (Technavio, 2024).
- Regulatory Landscape: CBD is classified as a novel food across the EU, but how this is enforced can vary by country. German regulators tend to follow EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) guidelines, although local interpretations can affect how products are labeled and sold.
- Pharmaceutical Pipeline: European pharmaceutical companies, including some based in Germany, are actively researching purified CBD formulations for pain management, inflammatory disorders, and mental health. This could lead to additional prescription-only cannabinoid medications.
- Research Gaps: Experts highlight the need for larger, longer-term clinical trials to establish definitive safety and efficacy profiles across different populations. This is especially relevant for chronic conditions such as arthritis or psychological disorders, where consistent dosing over extended periods may be required.
Discussion and Future Outlook
In essence, the renewed enthusiasm for CBD today represents both a return to historical roots and a leap forward in medical and scientific understanding.
From epilepsy management to chronic pain relief, anxiety reduction, and beyond, emerging data paints a picture of a versatile supplement that generally demonstrates good safety, minimal risk of abuse and promising vast potential applications.
Still, experts caution that more large-scale, long-term studies are essential to confirm its benefits and ideal dosages across diverse populations.
Meanwhile, consumer interest remains robust, prompting companies to innovate with edibles like gummies and chocolates, as well as organic skincare and beauty products.
These affordable, accessible formats appeal to a broader demographic- especially younger adults who may treat CBD as part of a wellness routine.
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