A literature review found that CBD demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-angiogenic effects in experimental endometriosis models, but clinical data on cannabinoid treatment for endometriosis in humans remains extremely limited.
Gynecologists, endometriosis patients, and researchers interested in expanding cannabinoid therapeutic applications.
What the researchers found
An experimental rat study demonstrated CBD's anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiangiogenic effects in endometriosis treatment via intraperitoneal administration. However, human clinical evidence is sparse, and current use is off-label without established dosing or administration routes.
Why it matters
Endometriosis affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age and is associated with chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, and infertility. Current treatments have significant limitations, creating urgency for new therapeutic options.
The numbers in context
Approximately 10% of women of reproductive age affected. One experimental rat study demonstrated CBD efficacy. Current human use is off-label.
How the study worked
Literature review searching PubMed, Embase, and Scopus for studies on CBD and THC therapeutic potential for endometriosis symptoms, including assessment of reproducibility, safety, dosing, and administration routes.
What this study cannot tell us
Very limited primary research available. Only one animal study of CBD in endometriosis. No clinical trials identified. Review methodology not described as systematic.
How to read the evidence
Literature review identifying very limited primary evidence. One positive animal study does not establish therapeutic potential in humans.
When this study was published
2025 publication.
The bigger picture
The endocannabinoid system is present in reproductive tissues and modulates pain and inflammation. Endometriosis involves both, making cannabinoid therapy theoretically promising. However, the gap between theoretical rationale and clinical evidence is vast.
Questions still open
- When will clinical trials of cannabinoids for endometriosis begin?
- Could cannabis interact with hormonal treatments commonly used for endometriosis?
Common questions
Can cannabis treat endometriosis?
Why might cannabinoids help endometriosis?
Read the original research
Cannabidiol and ∆9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Endometriosis: A Literature Review on Therapeutic Applications and Mechanisms.
JBRA assisted reproduction
Citation
Godoy, Joana Retzke; Castilhos, Júlia Prauchner de; Caruso, Fernanda Borsatto; Hentschke, Marta Ribeiro. (2025). Cannabidiol and ∆9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Endometriosis: A Literature Review on Therapeutic Applications and Mechanisms.. JBRA assisted reproduction. https://doi.org/10.5935/1518-0557.20250168
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