Oral CBD oil at 60 mg/day did not significantly reduce psoriasis severity scores compared to placebo, though it temporarily improved itch and sleep onset with a good safety profile.
Psoriasis patients considering CBD, dermatologists, and CBD researchers.
No PASI improvement; temporary itch and sleep benefits
What the researchers found
In a 28-patient RCT, oral CBD oil 60 mg/day did not significantly improve PASI (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index) scores versus placebo. However, itch scores were notably reduced by Week 8, and sleep onset latency decreased by Week 6, though this sleep effect was not sustained. Adverse events were mild to moderate and similar across groups.
Why it matters
Despite widespread consumer interest in CBD for skin conditions, this is one of the first rigorous placebo-controlled trials. The negative primary outcome is important information, though the itch and sleep benefits suggest potential symptom-specific effects worth investigating further.
The numbers in context
28 participants. CBD dose: 60 mg/day oral. No significant PASI improvement. Notable itch reduction by Week 8. Sleep onset latency decreased by Week 6 (not sustained). Adverse events mild and similar between groups.
How the study worked
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 28 chronic plaque psoriasis patients receiving oral CBD oil 60 mg/day or placebo, with PASI as primary outcome and quality of life, itch, and sleep as secondary outcomes.
What this study cannot tell us
Very small sample (28 patients). Low CBD dose (60 mg/day). Short duration. Oral route may not optimize skin delivery. Race and disease severity may limit generalizability.
How to read the evidence
Double-blind placebo-controlled RCT, but very small sample size (28) and potentially subtherapeutic dose.
When this study was published
2026 RCT.
The bigger picture
The disconnect between preclinical promise and clinical reality is a common theme in CBD research. The 60 mg dose may have been too low, and oral administration may not deliver sufficient concentrations to the skin. Topical CBD formulations might perform differently.
Questions still open
- Would higher doses or topical application produce different results? Could CBD be more effective as an adjunct to standard psoriasis treatments rather than as monotherapy?
Common questions
Does CBD help with psoriasis?
Why might the results be negative?
Read the original research
Efficacy and safety of cannabidiol oil in psoriasis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
The Journal of dermatological treatment, 37(1), 2604448
Citation
Roongpisuthipong, Wanjarus; Klangjareonchai, Theerawut; Kurathong, Sathit; Roongpisuthipong, Anuvat. (2026). Efficacy and safety of cannabidiol oil in psoriasis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.. The Journal of dermatological treatment, 37(1), 2604448. https://doi.org/10.1080/09546634.2025.2604448
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