Truth About CBD through Statistics

CBD Market Overview

When examining the CBD market, it's essential to understand the sales figures both in the United States and globally. These statistics provide insight into the growth and demand for CBD products.

US CBD Sales

The total sales of cannabidiol (CBD) products in the United States have seen significant growth over the years. According to Statista, the sales amounted to millions of U.S. dollars from 2014 to 2018. From 2019 onwards, all values are estimates. By 2022, the CBD sales in the U.S. reached $1.9 billion, showcasing the increasing popularity and consumer demand for CBD products.

Global CBD Market Growth

The global CBD market has also experienced substantial growth. It was valued at USD 12.8 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.7% between 2022 and 2028. The market's expansion can be attributed to the increasing awareness of the health benefits of CBD, particularly in pain management and various treatments. The chronic pain segment of the CBD market alone is expected to surpass USD 18.7 billion by 2028, driven by the rising demand for CBD products for medical applications and pain relief treatments [2].

The North America CBD market, specifically in the U.S., held a significant share of the global market, valued at USD 7.7 billion in 2021. The supportive regulatory environment in the region, particularly through the Farm Bill of 2018 legalizing CBD products with less than 0.3% THC content, has greatly influenced consumer confidence and market demand for CBD products [2].

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the CBD market, it's necessary to explore market segmentation, including different product types and end-use segments. This will provide further insights into consumer preferences and market trends.

CBD Market Segmentation

To understand the CBD market better, it is essential to explore its segmentation based on product types and end-use segments.

Product Types

In the cannabidiol market, CBD oil emerges as the dominant product type, capturing a market share of over 30% [3]. CBD oil's popularity can be attributed to its effectiveness in managing chronic pain, making it a sought-after choice for individuals seeking natural pain relief.

End-Use Segments

When considering the end-use segments within the CBD market, pharmaceuticals hold the largest market share, accounting for over 37.2% [3]. This growth can be attributed to the neuroprotective and pain-relieving properties of CBD, making it an attractive option for pharmaceutical applications.

B2B sales also play a significant role in the CBD market, encompassing 55.1% of the market share [3]. Typically involving larger quantities of products or services compared to B2C transactions, B2B sales contribute to the overall market growth.

These statistics highlight the prominence of CBD oil as a leading product type and the significant market share of pharmaceuticals and B2B sales within the CBD industry. As the market continues to evolve, it is crucial to monitor these segments to gain insights into emerging trends and opportunities.

CBD Usage Statistics

To better understand the usage of CBD products, it is important to examine the consumer demographics and spending patterns associated with CBD consumption.

Consumer Demographics

In a survey conducted in the United States in 2021, it was found that a majority of U.S. adults, approximately 60%, either use or have tried a CBD product. The survey included 3,519 respondents aged 18 years and older who were current consumers of CBD products [4]. The data collected from this survey provides valuable insights into the demographic breakdown of CBD consumers:

Source: Forbes

These statistics reveal that CBD usage tends to increase with age, with the highest incidence of CBD usage among individuals aged 65 and above.

Furthermore, the consumption of CBD does not appear to be heavily skewed towards any particular gender. According to the Forbes Health Survey, men and women report using CBD products similarly [1].

Spending Patterns

When it comes to spending on CBD products, the data shows interesting patterns. In 2020, approximately 29% of CBD consumers reported spending at least $50 per month on CBD products. Among different age groups, individuals between the ages of 34 and 44 were found to be the highest spenders on CBD products.

Understanding these spending patterns can be helpful for both consumers and businesses in the CBD industry. Consumers can make informed decisions about their budget and prioritize their CBD purchases accordingly. For businesses, it provides insights into target markets and consumer behavior, enabling them to tailor their products and marketing strategies more effectively.

In conclusion, CBD usage is prevalent among a significant proportion of the U.S. adult population, with consumption rates varying across different age groups. While spending on CBD products can vary, individuals in the 34-44 age group tend to be the highest spenders. These statistics shed light on the popularity and market dynamics of CBD products, allowing consumers and businesses to make informed decisions in the evolving CBD industry.

Regulatory Landscape

The regulatory landscape surrounding CBD has been a topic of significant interest and discussion. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plays a crucial role in enforcing regulations and overseeing the CBD industry. Additionally, legislative developments have emerged to address the consumption and marketing of CBD products.

FDA Enforcement

The FDA has taken enforcement actions to regulate the CBD marketplace. On December 22, 2020, the FDA issued five warning letters to companies marketing products containing CBD, targeting companies making various drug claims, including claims related to COVID-19. This enforcement demonstrates the FDA's seriousness in addressing violations within the CBD industry.

The FDA's enforcement strategy primarily focuses on products that make egregious drug claims and may pose harm to consumers or patients. The agency places priority on products that bear claims for the treatment, cure, or mitigation of a disease, particularly when marketed towards vulnerable populations [5].

Additionally, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken action against CBD products that make deceptive claims. The FTC has issued warning letters and corresponding settlements against companies for marketing CBD products with unsupported health claims. These settlements require companies to cease making unsupported claims and pay monetary judgments to the FTC [5].

Legislative Developments

The regulation of CBD products is also being addressed through legislative developments. Several bills have been introduced in the United States to address cannabis consumption, including the "Hemp and Hemp-Derived CBD Consumer Protection and Market Stabilization Act of 2021." This proposed bill aims to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) to make hemp and hemp-derived CBD lawful for use as a dietary ingredient. The FDA and Congress are actively grappling with the regulation of CBD products, and legislation may provide a faster path forward for CBD products marketed as dietary supplements.

The regulatory landscape surrounding CBD continues to evolve, with ongoing enforcement actions by the FDA and legislative developments shaping the future of the industry. It is essential for consumers and businesses in the CBD market to stay informed and compliant with the latest regulations to ensure the safety and legality of CBD products.

Health Benefits of CBD

CBD, or cannabidiol, has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits. While research is ongoing, there is evidence to support the effectiveness of CBD in managing various conditions. In this section, we will explore two key health benefits associated with CBD: pain management and neuroprotective effects.

Pain Management

One of the most well-known applications of CBD is its potential to alleviate pain. CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain perception. Studies have shown that CBD may help reduce pain and inflammation by interacting with receptors in the endocannabinoid system.

A study conducted by Michigan University in 2021 reported that 72% of patients with fibromyalgia who used CBD experienced a decrease in pain compared to other drug therapies, contributing to the increased adoption of CBD products [2]. Additionally, the chronic pain segment of the CBD market is expected to surpass USD 18.7 billion by 2028, driven by the increasing demand for CBD products for medical applications and pain relief treatments.

CBD's properties, such as its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects, contribute to its potential for reducing anxiety in chronic pain patients. It is important to note that further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and efficacy of CBD in pain management.

Neuroprotective Effects

Another promising area of research is the potential neuroprotective effects of CBD. CBD has shown promise in treating severe childhood epilepsy syndromes such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. In fact, the FDA has approved Epidiolex, a medication primarily consisting of CBD, for the treatment of these conditions. Studies have demonstrated that CBD can reduce the number of seizures and, in some cases, stop them altogether [6].

While CBD's neuroprotective effects are particularly notable in the field of epilepsy, ongoing research is exploring its potential in other neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. While the results are promising, more studies are needed to fully understand the extent of CBD's neuroprotective properties.

CBD offers various forms of consumption, including oils, tinctures, capsules, patches, vapes, and topical preparations. Topical CBD-infused products may be ideal for reducing inflammation and relieving muscle and joint pain, while other products like tinctures or sprays allow CBD to directly enter the bloodstream. It's worth noting that the prescription drug Sativex, which utilizes CBD as an active ingredient, is approved for conditions like muscle spasticity and cancer pain in certain countries, while Epidiolex is approved in the US for specific types of epilepsy and tuberous sclerosis.

As research continues, CBD shows promise as a potential option for managing pain and providing neuroprotective effects. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your wellness routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Forms of CBD Consumption

CBD, or cannabidiol, can be consumed in various forms to suit individual preferences and needs. The different forms of CBD consumption offer distinct benefits and methods of delivery. Two common forms of CBD consumption are oils and tinctures, as well as topical preparations.

Oils and Tinctures

CBD oils and tinctures are popular choices for those seeking a direct and efficient method of consumption. These products typically come in small bottles with droppers for precise dosing. When administered sublingually (under the tongue), the CBD is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, allowing for faster onset of effects.

One advantage of oils and tinctures is their versatility. They can be easily incorporated into daily routines by adding a few drops to food or beverages. This flexibility makes it convenient for individuals to personalize their CBD intake according to their preferences and desired dosage.

It's important to note that CBD oils and tinctures may contain additional ingredients such as carrier oils or flavorings to enhance the taste or improve absorption. When purchasing these products, it's crucial to choose reputable brands that provide third-party lab testing to ensure product quality and consistency.

Topical Preparations

Topical CBD preparations, such as creams, lotions, and balms, are designed to be applied directly to the skin. These products are ideal for individuals seeking localized relief from pain or inflammation. When applied topically, CBD interacts with receptors in the skin to potentially alleviate discomfort.

Topical CBD-infused products may be beneficial for reducing inflammation and relieving muscle and joint pain. They can be particularly useful for individuals experiencing arthritis or other conditions affecting specific areas of the body. The application of CBD topicals allows for targeted relief without the need for CBD to enter the bloodstream.

It's worth noting that the effectiveness of topical CBD products may vary depending on factors such as the concentration of CBD, the quality of ingredients, and individual response. For optimal results, it's recommended to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and consult with a healthcare professional if needed.

CBD oils and tinctures, as well as topical preparations, offer unique ways to experience the potential benefits of CBD. The choice between these forms depends on personal preferences, desired effects, and individual circumstances. It's important to select high-quality products and consider consulting with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable form and dosage of CBD for your specific needs.