How Opinion On CBD has Changed

Ten years ago, if you asked the average consumer if they were inclined to try CBD the response probably would have been a puzzled, “Try what?” As cannabis becomes commonplace across health products, beauty lines, and political discussions, we can’t help but wonder when and how this seemingly overnight transition in opinions occurred. Hemp, the versatile plant good for everything from natural medicines to effective rope and building materials, was a staple of early American culture. Then came the passing of the 1937 Marihuana Tax Act, which banned all marijuana and hemp production throughout the United States.¹ As time passed, these plants were still illicitly grown and utilized, sparking outrage from those concerned about the psychoactive properties of THC, specifically its impact on the nation’s youth. During this period of cannabis controversy, marijuana and hemp were lumped together as a dangerous substance the general public should be wary of. Inextricably linked by nearly identical leafy stalks, few recognized the critical difference between the two plants: Hemp did not contain enough psychoactive THC to be used as a drug. Fast forward to today, and we see a completely different picture. A recent Gallup Poll shows approximately 14 percent of Americans say they use CBD-based products.² When broken down by age group, the poll shows CBD products are used by:

• 20% of 18-29 year-olds
• 16% of 30-49 year-olds
• 11% of 50-64 year-olds
• 8% of 65+ year-olds²

The poll also asked respondents for the top reasons they use CBD, which include:

• 40% for pain
• 20% for anxiety
• 11% for sleep²

The shift in opinions of CBD has unsurprisingly been influenced by a broader acceptance of marijuana legalization despite the critical difference between hemp and marijuana. A recent Consumer Reports survey shows over 75 percent of U.S. adults support the legalization of medical marijuana, and approximately 50 percent support legalizing it for recreational use.³ The newfound approval of a plant with psychoactive properties has inevitably led to widespread approval of a “cousin” plant with trace amounts of THC and far less controversy. Along with approval, CBD’s potential health benefits are continuing to grow as new research is unveiled. The aforementioned survey shows nearly 75 percent of people who took CBD said it was at least moderately effective for the reason they took it, and 48 percent said it was very or extremely effective.³ What does this mean from a consumer standpoint? CBD is not just a trendy buzzword item, but a widely reviewed wellness product with the potential to change lives. As the benefits of CBD continue to expand, it is vital that the least familiar age group, older adults, are exposed to CBD products and can adjust their opinions accordingly. As the Gallup Poll noted, older adults in need of pain management products could stand to benefit the most from CBD.³ Our recommendation: Choose the safest, cleanest CBD products on the market to reap the greatest rewards.