Cannabis Industry Trends for 2022

ByCourtney Shade
Cannabis Industry Trends for 2022

When you first hear the word trend, you may think it’s describing something goofy or fleeting. But in actuality, trends can also refer to something that is prevailing and new. Plenty of fads have served a real purpose and stuck around. Hemp-derived cannabinoids, such as CBD, are a great example. In this article, we look at the current trends in the cannabis industry and highlight legal products available in the US through The Hemp Doctor.

Cannabis Consumption Statistics

Support in the US for the legalization of cannabis is at an all-time high. It’s reported that as many as 68% of adults believe the prohibition of this natural substance should end. The sales data doesn’t lie. In 2020, the total revenue for CBD products in the US was said to be 4.6 billion dollars and is projected to increase as much as 16 billion dollars by 2026. Last year, sales for tinctures and sublingual formats were reportedly worth $4 million, and they are continuing to increase in popularity. Another growing segment popular with consumers is infused beverages, capturing 23% of the market share in the US.

CBD and Self-care

If the subject of self-care interests you, you will also know that CBD is often associated with this movement. It’s the biggest trend to hit the cannabis industry so far. But what is self-care exactly? Self-care is the practice of activities necessary to sustain life and health, normally initiated and carried out by the individual for themself. The benefits of self-care could include improved health, greater relaxation, mental reset, and overall better quality of life. Hemp-derived cannabinoids pair well with several self-care activities. For example, CBD can be easily added into bath time and utilized during activities such as yoga, massage, etc. Consumers also use it for its relaxing benefits, mood-altering effects, and more.

“Well-being is realized by small steps, but is truly no small thing.” Quote by Zeno of Elea, a pre-Socratic Greek philosopher.

State of Play

How does the legal cannabis market exist? The introduction of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, or the Farm Bill as it’s more commonly known, has paved the way for the industry as we know it. This legislation allows the production of hemp-derived products with a maximum of 0.3% THC. This means products like CBD, sourced from industrial hemp, are legal to sell and consume in the US. However, there’s an exception to this rule. Although it is federally legal, some states have restricted or banned the sale of hemp-derived products. In addition, the current regulatory framework doesn’t address product safety, leaving the providers responsible for product testing, etc.

One of the biggest hurdles regarding the normalization of cannabis is its legal status in the US and beyond. The Drug Enforcement Agency still classifies cannabis (not hemp) as a Schedule I drug, which needs to change to eliminate general stigma. Separate legislation is being drafted by the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act to address these issues. Ongoing research and data collection will be factors that will shape the industry and support full legalization. The Biden administration had promised to decriminalize cannabis and expunge prior convictions, something the industry is still waiting to see.

Introduction to Legal Cannabinoid Products

Cannabis contains a plethora of chemical compounds, substances that are found in the trichome glands of the plant. These compounds consist of a variety of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. This includes well-known compounds like delta 9 THC and cannabidiol, or CBD. Scientists have found as many as 540 different substances, each producing a particular effect. The combination present in each cultivar will vary. Also, the potency of its compounds may change each crop cycle, depending on the age of its genetics and other environmental factors. It’s the interaction between these substances and the body’s endocannabinoid system responsible for the plant’s health benefits. Any benefits consumers may experience from cannabis are subjective, and if you are new to cannabis products, it’s recommended to start slow.

Many different formats exist already, making hemp-derived products accessible to adult consumers. Picking a product that’s right for you depends on your wellness goals, what lifestyle factors apply, tolerance, and personal preference. Some products are made with discretion and convenience in mind. Other formats are made to be non-intoxicating or smoke-less. All designed to help consumers enjoy optimal health, naturally.

As mentioned, cannabinoids sourced from hemp, including several analogs of THC, are legal for sale in the US. The Hemp Doctor offers premium edibles and more. See some of our favorites below:

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Cannabis contains a plethora of chemical compounds, substances that are found in the trichome glands of the plant.

Predictions for Pot

The cannabis industry moves rapidly, making it difficult to predict what’s to come. However, more countries will continue to legalize recreational cannabis. Countries like Germany and Mexico are expected to introduce their own framework in the near future. Cannabis sales will.

Continue to increase in the US and beyond. Particularly as the product formats evolve. Innovations in CBD products may include new formulations for pets, more infused beauty products, feminine hygiene products, and so on. This is turning this health and wellness trend into a sociological paradigm shift.

We can help you to reach your full potential! The Hemp Doctor offers premium full and broad spectrum products to fit any lifestyle and taste. We rely on third-party lab testing to verify the accuracy of our labeling and the purity of the product’s ingredients. Shop our organic cannabinoid products today.

Learn about the differences between delta 9 THC and delta 8 THC in a previous article on our blog.