The Impulse of Scientific Innovation in Cannabis, Even in a Vegetative State

Interweaving research, innovation, and collaboration, the Brazilian Medicinal Cannabis Congress 2025, which will take place from May 22 to 24 at Expo Center Norte in São Paulo, emerges as a decisive milestone for the development of cannabinoid science in Brazil.

With the presence of experts from various fields, the event promises to present the latest advances in cannabis medicine and foster dialogue on the challenges still faced — such as the long-awaited regulation of industrial hemp cultivation, scheduled for May 2025.

Dr. Lilia Aparecida Salgado de Moraes, a researcher at the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), emphasizes that the regulation of cannabis cultivation is essential for advancing research and facilitating access to cannabinoid phytomedicines. “This is one of the major barriers that need to be overcome,” she states.

Responsible for addressing topics at the congress such as pest management and control without the use of agrochemicals, Lilia emphasizes that the absence of a clear regulatory framework paralyzes various initiatives due to the need for special authorizations, which lead to a “lengthy” process and are restricted to a few research centers.

She also stresses the need to dismantle the stigma surrounding the plant. “There is a need for greater public awareness. This deconstruction requires efforts on various fronts, involving awareness and education.”

According to the researcher, public policies are essential to foster this process, encompassing everything from good agricultural practices to strengthening the national industry and promoting research, teaching, and extension.

“Brazil has unique conditions to stand out; we have extremely qualified researchers, renowned research centers, and ideal soil and climatic conditions for cultivating the species,” she emphasizes. “With the issuance of authorizations and the change in social stigma, there is no doubt about the country's prominence on the world stage.”

Nanotechnology and Microdosing: The New Frontier of Cannabis Medicine

In the MedCan Specialties module, pharmacist Francisney Nascimento will present the lecture “Nanotechnology and Microdosing: The New Frontier in Cannabis Therapies.” He points to neurology, psychiatry, and rheumatology as promising areas for the therapeutic application of the plant.

“These specialties will benefit from research advances, as the endocannabinoid system regulates many physiological functions associated with diseases such as dementia, mood disorders, and inflammatory conditions,” explains the coordinator of the Medicinal Cannabis and Psychedelic Science Laboratory at the Federal University of Latin American Integration (UNILA). 

Francisney also highlights the versatility of cannabis, not just as one possibility, but dozens or even hundreds, depending on the combinations. “It is a tool that will be essential in the near future.” 

In this scenario, he advocates for the updating of doctors and researchers from various specialties on the therapeutic use of cannabis.

Building a Solid Ecosystem for Cannabis Science

Both Dr. Lilia and Francisney agree that the Brazilian Medicinal Cannabis Congress 2025 plays a strategic role in articulating knowledge networks and promoting collaborations between different sectors.

“It is an excellent opportunity to present to these professionals the importance of phytomedicines based on medicinal cannabis for patients,” emphasizes Lilia.

“It is the largest congress on the subject in Brazil and one of the largest in Latin America, full of life and interconnections — both through science and clinical application,” adds Francisney.

With six thematic modules, CBCM 2025 will address topics ranging from veterinary medicine to dentistry, through business, agribusiness, and specialized therapies. Click here and get your ticket with a 25% discount.