CBD Consumption on the Rise: A Deep Dive into the Latest Research

A recent study has shed light on the growing prevalence of cannabidiol (CBD) use in the United States, revealing that more than 10% of Americans reported consuming the non-psychoactive cannabis component within the past month. The study, published in Preventative Medicine Reports, analyzed data from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), an annual federal survey conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Key Findings: CBD and Marijuana Use

The study, led by Ji-Yeun Park, a professor at Biola University in California, found a strong correlation between CBD consumption and marijuana use. Among individuals who had used marijuana in the past 30 days, 40.7% had also consumed CBD within that period. Similarly, 32.2% of past-year marijuana users had used CBD within the past month. Even among individuals who had ever tried marijuana, 19.1% reported past-month CBD use.

In contrast, CBD consumption among non-marijuana users was significantly lower. Only 5.09% of people who had never used marijuana or had not used it in the past year reported using CBD.

Overall, the study concluded that 10.5% of the U.S. population had consumed CBD in the previous 30 days.

Demographic Trends and Health Concerns

The research also highlighted specific demographic patterns in CBD use. Women, white individuals, adults, and those reporting fair or poor health were more likely to use CBD compared to other groups.

While CBD is widely regarded for its therapeutic potential, the study also raised concerns about the co-use of CBD and marijuana. Previous research suggests that using both substances simultaneously could increase marijuana consumption and lead to significant drug interactions. However, the study also acknowledged that some individuals may use CBD as a substitute for marijuana or for health-related reasons.

The researchers emphasized the need for further public health initiatives to educate the public on both the potential benefits and risks of CBD use, particularly when combined with marijuana.

CBD’s Role in Public Health and Policy Implications

CBD has gained widespread popularity since the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and its derivatives. However, this rapid growth has also led to regulatory debates. As Congress prepares to draft a new version of the Farm Bill, lawmakers are considering various amendments that could impact the hemp industry.

For instance, Senate Democrats have proposed changes to federal hemp laws, including revisions to THC measurement regulations and easing restrictions for hemp farmers. Meanwhile, the House Agriculture Committee has suggested removing synthetic cannabinoids from the federal definition of legal hemp—an amendment supported by both prohibitionists and some marijuana companies.

These potential regulatory changes could reshape the market for CBD and other hemp-derived products, raising questions about their future availability and legal status.

Expanding CBD Applications and Ongoing Research

Beyond recreational and wellness uses, researchers continue to explore CBD’s potential in medical and addiction treatment settings. A study published last year found that an 800-milligram dose of CBD could help reduce alcohol cravings in individuals with alcohol use disorder. Similarly, an upcoming National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)-funded study will examine whether hemp-derived CBD could aid individuals with marijuana use disorder by helping them reduce their THC intake.

Other studies have suggested that CBD may have a role in pain management. Research published in 2023 found that pure CBD provided pain relief comparable to opioid-based medications commonly used in dentistry. Additionally, legal access to CBD has been linked to a reduction in opioid prescriptions, with some estimates indicating a decline of 6.6% to 8.1% in opioid prescription rates.

Looking Ahead

As the CBD market continues to expand, regulatory changes and scientific advancements will shape its role in both consumer wellness and medical applications. While the potential benefits of CBD are promising, further research is necessary to fully understand its effects, particularly in relation to marijuana use.

For now, the study underscores the importance of balanced public health messaging and informed policy decisions to ensure safe and effective CBD consumption in the United States.