The cannabidiol (CBD) market has been called explosive. Growth estimates indicate that the global market for CBD oil should grow from $967.2 million in 2020 to $5.3 billion by 2020 , which represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 40.4 percent for the period of 2020-2025. [1] While only one CBD product has been approved by the FDA, a prescription drug product to treat two rare, severe forms of epilepsy, considerable research indicates the effectiveness of this natural compound of the cannabis plant for treating a range of other health and wellness issues.
Recent studies indicate that pain, mental health, and general wellness are key reasons for usage, with specific health ailments varying from generation to generation. Millennial survey takers mostly use CBD products for anxiety (31%) and general wellness (30%). Gen X and baby boomers use CBD to help with joint pain (31% and 36%, respectively) and muscle pain (23% each).[2]
While more research is needed on CBD and anxiety, a 2011 study found that CBD was able to reduce social anxiety disorder (SAD). This preliminary study aimed to compare the effects of a simulation public speaking test (SPST) on healthy control patients and treatment-naïve SAD patients who received a single dose of CBD or placebo. Pretreatment with CBD significantly reduced anxiety, cognitive impairment, and discomfort in control patients' speech performance and significantly decreased alert levels in their anticipatory speech. The placebo group presented higher anxiety, cognitive impairment, discomfort, and alert levels when compared with the control group.[3]
When it comes to chronic pain, a study published in the European Journal of Pain showed that using an animal model, topical CBD application has therapeutic potential for relief of arthritis pain-related behaviors and inflammation without evident side effects.[4]
Research also suggests CBD may be able to prevent and control inflammation. Using animal models, CBD seemed to be able to interact with the immune system, reduce inflammation, and reduce pain from a number of conditions.[5]
Skin conditions are another area where CBD has been shown to be effective. While more research needs to be conducted on CBD and eczema, one study found that the topical administration of CBD ointment without any THC (the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis) helped to improve the quality of life in patients with some skin disorders. The research included 20 patients with the two most frequent skin disorders: psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, and resulting scars. The patients administered topical CBD-enriched ointment to lesioned skin daily for three months. The results showed significant improvement in skin parameters, the symptoms, and the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score.[6]
More clinical trials underway
While research for the conditions mentioned continues, there are other clinical CBD trials currently underway in more areas. Here is a sampling of some of the research being conducted:
- Using Cannabidiol to Treat Peripheral Neuropathy: The purpose of the study is to evaluate CBD as a better pain reliever for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain (DPN) of the feet than a placebo. Secondarily, the research is aiming to evaluate the impact of CBD on a patient’s neuropathic pain, anxiety, and sleep quality. [7]
- Cannabidiol and Management of Endometriosis Pain: Researchers are studying the effects of CBD in patients with endometriosis. The purpose of the study is to find out if CBD can improve both pain and quality of life compared to a placebo. [8]
- Trial of Cannabidiol to Treat Severe Behavior Problems in Children with Autism: The study is looking at whether CBD can reduce the severe behavioral problems associated with autism, including aggressive and self-harm behaviors, frequent repetitive behaviors, and severe hyperactivity.[9]
These are just some of the new areas on the use of CBD. There are others looking at how CBD can continue to address serious health issues as well as enhance a person’s daily wellness regime.
Lab+Blends offers a full line of CBD products for a range of health solutions such as topical pain relief, eczema control, stress reduction and general wellness, and support for sleep.