The Green Rush: Exploring the Business Boom of CBD Products
Find everything you need to know about CBD products, including their benefits, legalities, and trends in 2023 and beyond.
Intro to CBD: The Miracle Molecule?
You have probably heard of CBD, or cannabidiol, one of the most popular compounds derived from the cannabis plant. CBD has been touted as a natural remedy for a variety of health conditions, such as chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy, and more. But what is CBD exactly, and how does it work? Is it safe and legal to use? And why is it causing such a buzz in the wellness industry?
In this blog, we will explore the business boom of CBD products, and how they are changing the landscape of health and wellness. We will cover the different types of CBD products available in the market, the scientific evidence and anecdotal reports on their benefits, the legal, regulatory, and ethical challenges facing the CBD industry, and the emerging trends and opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors in this sector.
Whether you are a curious consumer, a potential business owner, or an interested investor, this blog will provide you with valuable insights and information on the CBD phenomenon. Read on to discover why CBD might be the miracle molecule you have been looking for.
CBD Products: From Oils to Edibles
One of the reasons why CBD is so popular is because it comes in a variety of forms and products that can suit different preferences and needs. Whether you want to ingest CBD, apply it topically, or inhale it, there is a CBD product for you.
Some of the most common types of CBD products are:
- CBD oils and tinctures: These are liquid extracts of CBD that are taken orally or sublingually (under the tongue). They are usually mixed with a carrier oil, such as hemp seed oil, coconut oil, or MCT oil, and may contain other ingredients, such as flavorings or terpenes. CBD oils and tinctures are easy to use and dose, and they have a fast onset of effects.
- CBD capsules and pills: These are solid forms of CBD that are swallowed like regular pills. They are convenient and discreet, and they have a longer-lasting effect than oils and tinctures. However, they may take longer to absorb and may have lower bioavailability (the amount of CBD that reaches the bloodstream).
- CBD edibles and gummies: These are food products that are infused with CBD, such as candies, chocolates, cookies, or beverages. They are tasty and fun to consume, and they can mask the earthy taste of CBD. They also have a long-lasting effect, but they may take longer to kick in and may have lower bioavailability due to the digestive process.
- CBD topicals: These are products that are applied to the skin, such as creams, lotions, salves, balms, or patches. They are ideal for targeting specific areas of discomfort or inflammation, such as muscles, joints, or skin conditions. They have a localized effect and do not enter the bloodstream.
- CBD vapes and inhalers: These are products that are inhaled through a device, such as a vape pen, an inhaler, or a cigarette. They deliver CBD directly to the lungs, where it is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. They have a fast onset of effects and high bioavailability, but they may also have some health risks associated with inhaling substances.
There are many brands and companies that offer these types of CBD products in the market. Some examples are:
- Industrial Hemp Farms: This is a Colorado-based company that specializes in hemp cultivation and processing. They offer a wide range of CBD products, such as hemp flower, hemp trim, hemp cigarettes, CBD isolates, CBD oils, and terpenes. One of their most popular products is the **Sovereign Bubba CBD Hemp Flower**, this strain is a cross between Bubba Kush and Sovereign Fields, and has a high CBD content of 20%. Sovereign Bubba CBD Hemp Flower has a sweet and earthy flavor, with notes of coffee and chocolate. It has a rich terpene profile, which includes Myrcene, Pinene, Bisabolol, and Guaiol. Sovereign Bubba CBD Hemp Flower is an Indica-dominant strain, which means it has more relaxing and sedating effects. Click here to check it out.
- Plain Jane: This is an Oregon-based company that focuses on providing affordable and high-quality hemp and CBD products. They offer various products, such as hemp flower, CBG flower, CBD cigarettes, CBD joints, CBD oils, CBD topicals, and CBN oils. One of their best-selling products is the **CBD Cool Rapid Relief Roll On**, which is a topical balm that provides a cooling sensation and relief for discomfort. Click here to check it out.
CBD Benefits: A Natural Remedy for Many Ailments
CBD is not only a popular wellness product, but also a promising therapeutic agent for various health conditions. CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, analgesic, anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, anti-psychotic, anti-convulsant, and anti-tumor properties (Blessing et al., 2015; Pisanti et al., 2017). Here are some of the health benefits of CBD that are backed by scientific evidence or possible according to preliminary studies:
- Epilepsy: CBD is an approved treatment for two rare and severe forms of epilepsy, namely Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. CBD can reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in patients with these conditions, and it has a better safety profile than most anti-epileptic drugs (Devinsky et al., 2018; FDA, 2018).
- Pain: CBD can help relieve chronic pain by modulating the endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain sensation and inflammation. CBD can also enhance the effects of other painkillers, such as opioids, and reduce their dependence and side effects (Russo, 2008; Hammell et al., 2016).
- Anxiety and depression: CBD can help reduce anxiety and depression by interacting with serotonin receptors, which are involved in mood regulation. CBD can also alleviate stress and improve sleep quality, which are common factors that contribute to mental health disorders (Blessing et al., 2015; Silva et al., 2021).
- Cancer: CBD can help alleviate cancer-related symptoms, such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. CBD can also have anti-tumor effects by inducing cell death, inhibiting angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), and modulating the immune system (Pisanti et al., 2017; McAllister et al., 2007).
- Neurodegenerative diseases: CBD can help protect the brain from damage and degeneration caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, and excitotoxicity (the overstimulation of nerve cells). CBD can also improve cognitive function and memory in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Huntington’s disease (Iuvone et al., 2009; Watt & Karl, 2017).
- Heart health: CBD can help improve cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure, reducing inflammation, and preventing oxidative stress. CBD can also prevent or reduce the damage caused by myocardial ischemia (lack of blood flow to the heart), arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), and heart failure (Jadoon et al., 2017; Stanley et al., 2013).
These are some of the potential health benefits of CBD that are supported by scientific research or anecdotal reports. However, more studies are needed to confirm the safety, efficacy, and optimal dosage of CBD for different conditions and populations.
Challenges in CBD: Navigating the Legal Gray Zone
CBD is a natural compound derived from the hemp plant, which belongs to the cannabis family. CBD has many potential health benefits, such as relieving pain, anxiety, inflammation, and seizures. However, CBD also faces many legal challenges that limit its availability and accessibility for consumers and businesses. Here are some of the major legal challenges that CBD has to navigate in 2023 and beyond:
- Federal regulation: Despite being legalized by the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD is still subject to the oversight and regulation of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which has not yet approved CBD as a dietary supplement or a food additive. The FDA has also issued warning letters to CBD companies that make unsubstantiated health claims or sell products that contain more than 0.3% THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis. The FDA has stated that it is working on developing a regulatory framework for CBD products, but it is unclear when or how this will happen (Malyshev & Ganley, 2023).
- State laws: While CBD is legal at the federal level, it is still illegal or restricted in some states. Each state has its own laws and regulations regarding the production, distribution, and consumption of CBD products, which can vary widely and change frequently. For example, some states allow CBD products only for medical purposes, while others allow CBD products only if they are derived from hemp and not marijuana. Some states also have specific requirements for labeling, testing, and packaging of CBD products. This creates confusion and uncertainty for consumers and businesses who want to buy or sell CBD products across state lines (Malyshev & Ganley, 2023).
- International laws: While CBD is legal in many countries around the world, it is still illegal or restricted in others. Each country has its own laws and regulations regarding the importation, exportation, and consumption of CBD products, which can also vary widely and change frequently. For example, some countries allow CBD products only if they contain no THC at all, while others allow CBD products only if they are prescribed by a doctor. Some countries also have specific requirements for labeling, testing, and packaging of CBD products. This creates challenges and risks for consumers and businesses who want to buy or sell CBD products internationally (Malyshev & Ganley, 2023).
These are some of the key legal challenges that CBD has to navigate in 2023 and beyond. However, these challenges also present opportunities for advocacy, education, and innovation. By addressing these issues proactively and strategically, consumers and businesses can help shape the future and legality of the CBD industry.
Opportunities in CBD: A Green Gold Mine for Entrepreneurs
CBD is not only a natural remedy for many ailments, but also a green gold mine for entrepreneurs who want to tap into the booming CBD industry. The CBD industry is expected to grow rapidly and diversely in the coming years, offering various benefits and advantages for entrepreneurs who are willing to take the risk and seize the opportunity. Here are some of the major opportunities that CBD offers for entrepreneurs in 2023 and beyond:
- High demand and profitability: CBD products are in high demand among consumers who are looking for natural and effective ways to improve their health and wellness. CBD products can help with various conditions and needs, such as pain, anxiety, inflammation, seizures, cancer symptoms, neurodegenerative diseases, heart health, and more. According to various forecasts, the CBD industry is expected to reach $15 billion to $20 billion by 2025 in the U.S. alone (Silva, 2021). This means that there is a huge potential market and profit margin for CBD products, especially if they are of high quality, safety, and efficacy.
- Low barriers to entry and scalability: CBD products are relatively easy and inexpensive to produce and sell, compared to other cannabis products that require more complex and costly processes and licenses. CBD products can be derived from hemp, which is legal at the federal level and in most states. CBD products can also be sold online and in stores, without the need for a dispensary license or a doctor’s recommendation. CBD products can also be scaled up or down according to the market demand and consumer preferences (BigCommerce, n.d.).
- Innovation and differentiation: CBD products offer a lot of room for innovation and differentiation, as there are many ways to formulate, package, and market them. CBD products can be tailored for specific segments and niches of consumers, such as sports nutrition, pet care, beauty and skincare, wellness and relaxation, sexual health, and more. CBD products can also be infused with other ingredients or cannabinoids that enhance their functionality and appeal. For example, CBD products can be combined with melatonin for sleep, turmeric for inflammation, lavender for relaxation, or CBG for neuroprotection (Silva, 2021).
- Success stories and inspiration: CBD products have many success stories and inspiration from entrepreneurs who have started and grown their own CBD businesses. For example,
Lindsey Holthaus, the founder of Plain Jane CBD, a line of CBD products that include hemp flowers, pre-rolls, cigarettes, oils, gummies, and more. She started her CBD business in 2018 after discovering the benefits of CBD for her own health issues. She also wanted to create products that were odorless and discreet, unlike traditional cannabis products. She now runs a successful online store and has over 75,000 customers across the U.S., with a focus on quality, affordability, and customer service (Forbes, 2022). Another example is Joy Smith, the founder of Joy Organics, a family-owned CBD company that offers premium THC-free CBD products. She started her CBD business in 2018 after discovering the benefits of CBD for her own health issues. She now runs a successful online store and four brick-and-mortar locations across the U.S., with over 200 wholesale partners (Joy Organics, n.d.).
These are some of the key opportunities that CBD offers for entrepreneurs in 2023 and beyond. However, these opportunities also require passion, perseverance, and strategy. By addressing these issues proactively and strategically, entrepreneurs can overcome the challenges and leverage their strengths to succeed in the green gold mine of the CBD industry.
CBD: The Future of Wellness?
So, what does the future hold for CBD products? The answer is somewhat uncertain, given the potential for further regulation by the FDA and other authorities. However, the CBD market is consistently growing, and will likely continue to grow for the foreseeable future. According to various forecasts, the CBD market is expected to reach $15 billion to $20 billion by 2025 in the U.S. alone (Silva, 2021). New CBD products will inevitably follow that demand, as more research and product development are conducted on CBD and other cannabinoids. CBD products will also diversify into new markets and niches, catering to specific segments and preferences of consumers.
CBD products may also face new challenges and competition from alternative cannabinoids, such as CBG, CBN, CBC, and THCV, which have unique properties and effects that may appeal to different consumers. CBD products may also have to adapt to changing consumer expectations and demands, as well as evolving legal and social norms. CBD products may also have to deal with ethical and environmental issues, such as sustainability, transparency, and social responsibility.
In conclusion, CBD products are a promising product with many opportunities and challenges in the future of wellness. CBD products have the potential to improve the health and well-being of millions of people around the world, but they also have to navigate a complex and uncertain regulatory landscape. CBD products have the opportunity to innovate and differentiate themselves in a competitive and diverse market, but they also have to face new threats and risks from alternative cannabinoids and other factors. CBD products have the inspiration and success stories of entrepreneurs who have created and grown their own CBD businesses, but they also have to uphold high standards of quality, safety, and efficacy.
CBD products are not a miracle cure or a panacea for all ailments, but they are a natural and effective option for many people who are looking for natural and effective ways to improve their health and wellness. CBD products are not a fad or a trend that will fade away soon, but they are a part of the future of wellness that will continue to evolve and grow.
References:
Blessing EM, Steenkamp MM, Manzanares J, Marmar CR. Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders. Neurotherapeutics. 2015 Oct;12(4):825-36. doi: 10.1007/s13311-015-0387-1.
Devinsky O, Patel AD, Cross JH, Villanueva V, Wirrell EC, Privitera M, Greenwood SM, Roberts C, Checketts D, VanLandingham KE, Zuberi SM;
GWPCARE3 Study Group.
Effect of Cannabidiol on Drop Seizures in the Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome.
N Engl J Med. 2018 May 17;378(20):1888-1897. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1714631.
FDA approves first drug comprised of an active ingredient derived from marijuana to treat rare,
severe forms of epilepsy [press release]. Silver Spring,
MD: U.S. Food & Drug Administration; June 25,
2018.
Grinspoon P. Cannabidiol (CBD) — what we know and what we don’t. Harvard Health Blog. August 24,
2018.
Hammell DC, Zhang LP, Ma F, Abshire SM, McIlwrath SL, Stinchcomb AL, Westlund KN.
Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis.
Eur J Pain. 2016 Jul;20(6):936-48. doi: 10.1002/ejp.818.
Iuvone T, Esposito G, Esposito R, Santamaria R, Di Rosa M, Izzo AA.
Neuroprotective effect of cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive component from Cannabis sativa, on beta-amyloid-induced toxicity in PC12 cells.
J Neurochem. 2004 Apr;89(1):134-41. doi: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2003.02327.x.
Jadoon KA, Tan GD, O’Sullivan SE.
A single dose of cannabidiol reduces blood pressure in healthy volunteers in a randomized crossover study.
JCI Insight. 2017 Jun 15;2(12):e93760. doi: 10.1172/jci.insight.93760.
McAllister SD, Christian RT, Horowitz MP, Garcia A, Desprez PY.
Cannabidiol as a novel inhibitor of Id-1 gene expression in aggressive breast cancer cells.
Mol Cancer Ther. 2007 Nov;6(11):2921-7. doi: 10.1158/1535-7163.MCT-07-0371.
Pisanti S, Malfitano AM, Ciaglia E, Lamorte G, Romano A, Grimaldi C, Cordella M, Tabilio A, Gazzerro P, Bifulco M.
Cannabidiol: State of the art and new challenges for therapeutic applications.
Pharmacol Ther. 2017 Jul;175:133-150. doi: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.02.041.
Russo EB.
Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain.
Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Feb;4(1):245-59.
Silva L, Silva F, Grinspoon P, et al. CBD Oil: What are 9 Proven or Possible Health Benefits? Drugs.com. November 21, 2022.
Stanley CP, Hind WH, O'Sullivan SE.
Is the cardiovascular system a therapeutic target for cannabidiol?
Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2013 Feb;75(2):313-22. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2012.04351.x.
Watt G, Karl T.
In vivo Evidence for Therapeutic Properties of Cannabidiol (CBD) for Alzheimer's Disease.
Front Pharmacol. 2017 Feb 3;8:20. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00020.
Malyshev A., Ganley S.
Cannabis industry looks ahead to 2023
after facing challenges in 2022.
Reuters.
January 19,
2023.
Time.
Cops Want to Use CBD,
But Face Legal Challenges.
Here’s Why.
July 29,
2022.
Rod Discusses Legal Challenges Facing Hemp and CBD with The CBD Guide Podcast.
Cannabusiness Law.
June 8,
2021.
BigCommerce.
20 CBD Business Opportunities You Should Try.
n.d.
Dorbian I.
Top Cannabis Entrepreneur On CBD: “I Know There’s A Glut…But We’re In The Beginning Stages”.
Forbes.
August 7,
2020.
Joy Organics.
10 Steps to Starting a CBD Business | CBD Entrepreneur.
n.d.
Silva L.
The Future Of The CBD Industry In 2022 And Beyond.
Forbes.
October 21,
2021.
Sill M.
The Future Of The CBD Industry In 2022 And Beyond.
Forbes Business Council.
October 21,
2021.
BBC News.
Cannabis part of the future says tobacco giant.
July 28,
2021.
Green Market Report.
What Does the Future Hold for CBD Products?
n.d.
Grand View Research.
Cannabidiol Market Size,
Share And Growth [2023 Report].
n.d.
*** This blog uses affiliate links as a means of generating revenue. I may receive compensation for any purchases made through those links. ***
