In recent years, CBD products have proliferated across a multitude of industries, ranging from everyday personal care items to various food products. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound derived from hemp plants. Unlike THC, it doesn’t induce a high. Its effects are linked to the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates cardiovascular, nervous, and immune functions, playing a crucial role in maintaining bodily balance. Opinions on CBD vary, with some dismissing it as a temporary why CBD is trending while others passionately advocate for its benefits. The use of medical marijuana for pain relief dates back to the 19th century, making CBD’s popularity as an alternative to traditional over-the-counter drugs unsurprising.
What Is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids identified in cannabis, and it accounts for a significant portion of the plant’s extract. CBD is typically extracted from hemp, a variety of cannabis with low THC levels, making it legal in many parts of the world. It is often used in various products, including oils, tinctures, edibles, topicals, and capsules, for its potential therapeutic effects.
CBD, a component of the hemp plant, lacks psychoactive effects but possesses potential properties such as:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anxiolytic (anti-anxiety)
- Anticonvulsant (anti-seizure)
- Antidepressant
Main Reasons For Why CBD Is Trending
Why CBD is trending has several key reasons:
Increased Transparency And Quality Standards Of CBD
As the CBD industry has transitioned from obscurity to mainstream prominence in the wellness sector, consumer expectations have also escalated. In today’s market, discerning customers no longer settle for ambiguous assurances; they prioritize transparency, safety, and top-notch quality in CBD products. Clear labeling, third-party testing, and elevated standards have become essential requirements for the informed CBD consumer.
Renewed Focus On Educating Customers
Despite the widespread adoption of CBD—indicated by a poll revealing that 60% of participants have experimented with CBD products—there persists a notable lack of understanding among consumers. Research indicates that consumer awareness regarding CBD, including its potency levels and effects, remains relatively low. Customers may be familiar with CBD, but they often lack knowledge about its effects or the variety of available products. Even if they are knowledgeable about CBD, they may still be unaware of other cannabinoids and their potential benefits.
High Consumer Interest In CBD For Good Health
Following the legalization of hemp-derived CBD in 2018, there was a notable surge in interest regarding CBD’s potential for wellness. CBD quickly emerged as the most extensively researched health and wellness trend on Google. Industry statistics revealed a significant uptick in searches related to CBD and cannabidiol. By 2019, Google recorded 6.4 million searches related to CBD, surpassing searches for meditation by threefold and exceeding searches for acupuncture by sevenfold.
Increasing Demand In The Market
CBD’s presence in the retail sector continues to expand, with cannabidiol products earning greater trust from both legislators and consumers. This shift has prompted larger retailers to embrace, or at least consider, offering CBD products. The inclusion of CBD in big retail spaces also offers advantages to small and medium-sized businesses. With CBD products becoming more commonplace on mainstream retail shelves, it bolsters credibility and enhances consumer trust in cannabidiol, benefiting businesses of all sizes within the industry.
CBD For Pets
CBD products are not only popular among humans but are also gaining traction among pets. Nearly three-quarters of existing CBD consumers are pet owners, and around one-quarter of all pet owners in the United States use CBD either for themselves, their pets, or both. Among those who use CBD for their pets, half specifically use it for their dogs, while the remaining half primarily use it for themselves.
Attraction Toward CBD Beverages
In 2023, CBD beverages experienced significant growth, and this momentum is anticipated to carry forward into 2024. These beverages appeal to consumers seeking a convenient method to integrate CBD into their daily regimens. Options like CBD-infused sodas and sparkling water have emerged as popular choices for individuals seeking to reap the benefits of CBD in a familiar and enjoyable format.
Rise Of Other CBDs Beyond CBD
Apart from the widely recognized CBD, there exists a diverse range of other compounds in the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids such as CBG (cannabigerol) and CBN (cannabinol) are garnering interest due to their distinctive properties, contributing an additional dimension to CBD-infused products. More controversially, compounds like Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC have also emerged in the market. These compounds are subject to heightened regulation as states increasingly take notice of their presence.
CBD Available Offline and Online
CBD products are ideally sold offline as consumers often have numerous questions about cannabidiol. Having in-store associates available to explain the workings of different oils, supplements, creams, and other items is invaluable for ensuring shoppers make informed decisions. Once customers are educated about CBD and feel confident in their purchases, they may seek the convenience of e-commerce at least occasionally.
Final Thought On Why CBD Is Trending
CBD’s trendiness can be attributed to a combination of factors. Its natural origin, coupled with its potential health and wellness benefits, has propelled it into the mainstream. Increased transparency and quality standards within the industry have further bolstered consumer confidence. As consumer education improves and CBD becomes more accessible through both offline and online channels, its popularity is expected to continue growing. CBD’s rise reflects a shifting cultural attitude towards holistic health remedies and a desire for alternative solutions to traditional medications.
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