Best of the Week: March 28 – April 3, 2025

Let’s dive into the top stories shaping the conversation this week. Summaries of each article are listed below.

1. The Cost of Compliance in the Cannabis Industry

This week saw the publication of the latest installment of the Stuck on Compliance blog, written by Kim Anzarut, CQA, CP-FS, the CEO and founder of Allay Consulting.

The cannabis industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the U.S. and globally, with legalization expanding across various jurisdictions. However, with rapid growth comes regulatory scrutiny. Compliance with regulations such as the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) standards is not a legal requirement yet, but a crucial component of a sustainable business strategy.

Many cannabis companies question whether they can afford compliance, but the real question should be: Can they afford not to comply? This month’s blog explores the true cost of compliance, what non-compliance can mean for a business, and why investing in compliance is a proactive, strategic decision rather than a burdensome expense.

2. Energy Efficiency in Indoor Cannabis Cultivation: Optimizing Light

Next on our list is a video interview with Zacariah Hildenbrand, PhD, partner of Medusa Analytical, and a director of the Curtis Mathes Corporation (OTC:CMCZ). Dr. Hildenbrand is a regular author for our Cultivation Classroom column.

In our upcoming March/April issue of Cannabis Science and Technology, we will cover various factors in efficiency in indoor cannabis cultivation. In this interview, Zacariah Hildenbrand, PhD discusses the role of lightning in energy-efficient indoor cannabis cultivation.

3. Study Tests Cannabinoid-Based Ointment for Managing Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms

Cannabis research continues to be a popular topic. A recently published study examined the effects of topical cannabinoid therapy on the inflammatory skin condition atopic dermatitis (AD). Previous studies over several years have examined cannabinoids as a safe prevention and management of AD flares. This study intended to provide more insight on the effect of a particular formulation of cannabinoids within a small study group: nine patients (five men and four women) aged between 20-67 years old with AD. The pilot study, “Evaluation of Biophysical Parameters of the Skin of Patients With Atopic Dermatitis After Application of an Ointment Containing 30% Cannabidiol and 5% Cannabigerol,” was published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology in March 2025.

4. Pilot Study Examines Effects of CBD-Coated Pillowcases on Sleep Quality

Another study involving cannabis examined a different mechanism of action. A recently published study examined the effects of CBD-infused pillowcases on sleep cycles and quality in shift nurses. The cannabinoid CBD has been demonstrated to have a beneficial effect on sleep and anxiety, the study’s abstract noted. However, these effects of CBD through absorption of CBD through the skin are yet to be fully understood. Researchers aimed to test CBD-coated pillowcases to support sleep quality without the potential adverse effects of oral or inhaled CBD. The study, “Pilot Study on the Effect of Cannabidiol-Coated Fabric for Pillow Covers Improves the Sleep Quality of Shift Nurses,” was published in the journal Healthcare in March 2025.