Formulation and Analytical Evaluation of Liquid Cannabidiol Preparations: Comparative Study of Oil-Based Solutions and Emulsions

<b>Background/Objectives</b>: Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found in the <i>Cannabis sativa</i> plant. Due to its broad therapeutic potential, CBD is often incorporated into various pharmaceutical formulations. This study aimed to evaluate homogenous (oil-based) and heterogeneous (emulsion-based) liquid preparations of CBD using different fatty oils and provide a comprehensive comparative framework for the development of stable liquid dosage forms of cannabidiol (CBD), with direct applications in pharmaceutical formulations. <b>Methods</b>: The oils and emulsions were qualitatively analysed to assess their stability and suitability as CBD carriers. Ultraviolet (UV) spectrophotometry and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) were employed for quantifying CBD in the formulations and also characterising them in terms of product quality. <b>Results</b>: The results indicated that sunflower oil is the most stable and analytically compatible matrix, with CBD recovery close to 100% and minimal degradation over time. Conversely, linseed and pumpkin seed oils exhibited significant analytical interference and oxidative instability. Oil-in-water emulsions prepared with a 4% Tween 80/Span 80 mixture demonstrated optimal physical stability and droplet size distribution. <b>Conclusions</b>: Overall, both formulations can be regarded as suitable pharmaceutical carriers for CBD delivery.