CBD Statistics

The Rapid Rise of CBD: An Industry in Bloom

May 8, 2025

Understanding CBD: From Plant to Popularity

Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a non-psychoactive compound found in the hemp plant, a variety of the cannabis family. Over recent years, CBD has transitioned from a niche herbal supplement to a mainstream wellness staple, driven by growing consumer interest, expanding legalization, and scientific research revealing its potential health benefits. This article explores the current landscape of CBD, including usage patterns, market data, scientific insights, and future outlooks, helping readers grasp the true scope of this burgeoning industry.

CBD Usage and Consumer Demographics

CBD Usage: Demographics, Trends, and Consumer Preferences

What are the current statistics related to CBD usage, consumer demographics, and market trends?

Recent data highlights that CBD has gained widespread popularity across various age groups. Approximately 60% of adults surveyed by Forbes Health have tried CBD and believe it offers medicinal benefits. Consumer surveys show that around 33% of American adults have used CBD at least once, with usage most prominent among younger populations, especially those aged 18-34. In this demographic, 20% actively use CBD, and overall, 40% have tried it.

CBD's primary uses include pain relief (64%), anxiety (49%), and insomnia (42%). These motivations reflect consumer perceptions that CBD can provide natural relief for common health issues, fostering ongoing interest.

Market trends reveal a rapid expansion, with CBD product sales rising from $108 million in 2014 to nearly $2 billion in 2022. Online sales are expected to grow further, reaching around $4 billion by 2026. Additionally, the global CBD market is projected to hit $108 billion by 2032, illustrating robust growth driven by increasing consumer awareness and acceptance.

Consumer demographics show that women slightly outnumber men among CBD users, and usage correlates with higher socioeconomic status, chronic illness, and mental health concerns. Moreover, a significant portion of users—about 64%—are influenced by healthcare professionals, indicating a level of trust and integration with medical advice.

These statistics demonstrate not only the widespread adoption of CBD but also its evolving role in health and wellness sectors, influenced by perceived safety and growing market confidence.

Legal Landscape and Regulatory Developments

Navigating the Evolving Legal Landscape of CBD

What is CBD and how is it used?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound extracted from the hemp plant, a variety of cannabis, known for its non-psychoactive properties. It has gained popularity in recent years for its potential medicinal benefits. Consumers use CBD in various forms, including oils, tinctures, gummies, capsules, and topical applications.

The most common reasons for use are for pain relief (reported by 64% of users), anxiety (49%), and insomnia (42%). Many also explore CBD for recreational purposes. Its appeal largely comes from the perception that it is a natural remedy—though scientific research is ongoing to better understand its effects and safety.

Legal status across U.S. states

As of 2023, CBD is legal or conditionally legal in all 50 states, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, which authorized the cultivation and sale of hemp derivatives containing no more than 0.3% THC. Hemp-derived CBD products are legally available nationwide, with most states regulating their sale and use.

The top states for CBD sales include California, Florida, and New York, highlighting significant market demand and acceptance. Hemp farm acreage has also grown markedly—from 25,713 acres in 2017 to over 78,000 acres in 2018—supporting the expanding industry.

Federal regulations and approvals

While the FDA has not fully regulated the CBD market, it has approved Epidiolex, a medication containing purified CBD, for treating rare seizure disorders. Many other CBD products, however, are not FDA-approved, which raises concerns over product quality, labeling accuracy, and safety.

Research shows that a significant portion of CBD products are over- or under-labeled, with some containing unlabeled THC or exceeding legal THC limits. As a result, consumers should exercise caution, especially regarding product sourcing.

Impact of legislation on market growth

Legal changes have played a pivotal role in the booming CBD market. From 2014 to 2022, sales soared from $108 million to $1.9 billion. Projections suggest the market will continue to expand rapidly, reaching nearly $20 billion by 2025 and over $108 billion globally by 2032.

This growth is driven by increased consumer awareness, product availability, and evolving legal frameworks. The U.S. leads in innovation and market expansion, with online sales expected to reach around $6 billion by 2026. The legal landscape continues to evolve, influencing product development and accessibility.

Aspect	Details	Changes Over Time
Legal status	Fully legal in all states if derived from hemp with ≤0.3% THC	Expanded from previous patchwork state laws
FDA regulation	Approved Epidiolex; other CBD products unregulated	Calls for clearer regulations grow
Market growth	From $108 million in 2014 to $1.9 billion in 2022	Projected to hit $20 billion by 2025
Common products	Oils, gummies, edibles, topicals	Market diversification continues

The legal status of CBD in the U.S. has significantly contributed to its widespread use and market growth. As research progresses and regulations become more defined, the industry is poised for sustained expansion, making CBD a permanent fixture in health and wellness markets.

Scientific Evidence and Health Effects

What do scientific studies and health organizations say about the benefits, effects, and risks of CBD?

Research on cannabidiol (CBD) suggests that it may offer some health benefits, such as reducing pain, alleviating anxiety, and improving sleep quality. For example, a 2018 survey reported that nearly 62% of CBD users use it for conditions like pain and mental health issues. Additionally, the FDA has approved a medication called Epidiolex, which contains purified CBD, for treating rare seizure disorders, reflecting some recognized therapeutic potential.

However, scientific understanding of CBD's full effects remains limited. While many consumers cite positive outcomes, a 2020 evidence review found little conclusive data supporting health claims for over-the-counter CBD products. Current studies are ongoing to better understand its mechanisms and long-term impacts.

Using CBD products also presents risks. Possible side effects include liver damage, drowsiness, diarrhea, mood changes, and interference with other medications. There are concerns about the quality and safety of many available products; testing has revealed that only about 31% of CBD extracts are accurately labeled regarding CBD concentrations, and some contain unlisted THC or contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, or microbes.

Moreover, safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding is uncertain, and effects on children's developing brains are not well established. Given these uncertainties, consumers should be cautious, consult healthcare professionals before use, and be aware that long-term safety data is still needed. Overall, while CBD has promising prospects, it is not without risks, and more research is necessary to fully understand its health implications.

Market Growth and Industry Trends

Booming Market: The Rapid Expansion of CBD Industry

What are the current industry statistics and market data on the CBD industry?

The cannabidiol (CBD) industry is experiencing remarkable expansion worldwide. In 2023, the global market size was valued at approximately $22.8 billion, and it is projected to increase dramatically, reaching around $108 billion by 2032. This growth is driven by rising consumer interest, wider legalization of CBD products, and the diversification of available product forms.

Focusing on the United States, CBD sales have skyrocketed from just $108 million in 2014 to an estimated $4.17 billion in sales between 2022 and 2026. Per capita expenditure on CBD products is expected to reach about $18.86 in 2025, indicating widespread adoption. Nearly 60% of American adults have tried CBD, mainly for relief from pain, anxiety, and sleep issues.

E-commerce sales make up a significant portion of the market, accounting for around 40%, with online platforms facilitating easier access and product variety. Popular product types include gummies, oils, tinctures, capsules, and topical creams.

Overall, this rapid growth amid ongoing development reflects the CBD industry’s expanding influence in health and wellness sectors across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific regions. Despite some regulatory and quality concerns, such as mislabeling and THC content issues, the industry continues to thrive due to increased awareness and favorable legal environments.

Market Segment	Estimated Market Size (USD)	Growth Outlook	Main Contributions
Global CBD Industry	$22.8B in 2023	CAGR of 17.9% through 2032	Consumer demand, legal expansion
U.S. CBD Sales	$108M in 2014 to $4.17B (2022-2026)	Rapid rise, recent growth	Consumer spending, product diversity
Key Product Forms	Oils, gummies, topicals	Increasing popularity	Convenience, variety, targeted use
E-commerce	40% of sales	Steady growth	Online platforms, convenience

The continuous upward trend indicates a promising future, with further growth forecasted as legal barriers diminish and consumer awareness expands.

Popular Products and Consumption Patterns

Popular CBD Products and How Consumers Use Them

What are the common CBD products available in the market, such as oils and gummies?

Common CBD products on the market include oils, tinctures, gummies, capsules, topicals, and vapes. Among these, CBD oils and tinctures are popular for their versatility, allowing users to measure precise doses and incorporate them into food or drinks. Gummies are one of the fastest-growing categories, favored for their convenience and tasted varieties.

CBD gummies are edible candies infused with cannabidiol that come in various flavors, concentrations, and formulations designed for on-the-go wellness support. For example, brands like Charlotte's Web™ offer gummies targeting specific benefits such as calm, sleep, recovery, and brain health, with differing CBD and phytocannabinoid levels. These gummies often feature organic, full-spectrum or broad-spectrum extracts derived from USA-grown hemp, with some certified organic by USDA.

How do consumers prefer to dose and use CBD?

Most users tend to choose dosages between 5-10 mg per dose, especially among younger populations. Usage frequency varies, with about 31% of adults consuming CBD daily or multiple times per day. Recreational use accounts for around 35%, with many consumers using CBD for stress relief, anxiety, pain, or sleep issues.

Preferences also depend on the method of intake. Oils and tinctures are favored for their quick absorption, while gummies and capsules are preferred for convenience and discreteness. Research shows that 60% of consumers believe CBD offers medicinal benefits, even though scientific evidence remains limited for some claimed health effects.

What market segments and growth areas exist within the CBD industry?

The CBD market segment is broad, with oils constituting approximately 29.2% of the overall market share as of 2023, and gummies expected to surpass $19 billion by 2030. Edibles, including gummies, represent a significant portion of sales, driven by their popularity among young adults.

Online sales are rapidly expanding, forecasted to reach around $6 billion by 2026, highlighting a shift toward e-commerce. Growth is also driven by increasing legalization across states, rising consumer awareness, and the expanding variety of product offerings. Regions such as California, Florida, and New York are leading in sales, with California alone generating $730 million in 2019.

As the industry evolves, new applications like topicals for skin health and vapes for fast absorption continue to grow. The global demand for CBD products is projected to reach over $108 billion by 2032, with North America dominating the market.

Public Perception and Societal Attitudes

What do scientific studies and health organizations say about the benefits, effects, and risks of CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis that does not produce a 'high'. Scientific research and health organizations recognize that CBD may offer some health benefits, such as pain relief, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep quality. For example, the FDA has approved Epidiolex, a medication containing purified CBD, for treating certain rare forms of epilepsy, which indicates a verified medical application.

Despite these promising findings, much of the research is still in progress. Experts caution that the full range of CBD's effects and long-term safety remains uncertain. Potential risks include liver damage, interactions with other medications, drowsiness, diarrhea, and mood changes. Pregnant women and children are advised against CBD use due to unknown effects on development.

Market regulation is another concern. Many CBD products are not regulated by the FDA, leading to issues like inaccurate labeling. Studies have shown that only about 31% of analyzed products had correct CBD concentrations, and some contained unlisted THC or exceeded legal limits. Because of these inconsistencies, consumers should exercise caution, seek products tested by reputable labs, and consult healthcare providers before use.

While CBD’s potential benefits are encouraging, ongoing research and stricter regulation are essential to ensure consumer safety. As our understanding evolves, the reputation of CBD is likely to improve, but awareness of risks is equally important for responsible usage.

Regional and Global Market Insights

What do scientific studies and health organizations say about the benefits, effects, and risks of CBD?

Scientific research and health authorities recognize that cannabidiol (CBD) — a non-intoxicating component of cannabis — shows potential for various health benefits. Evidence suggests that CBD may help with pain relief, anxiety reduction, and improved sleep quality. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a CBD-based medication called Epidiolex for treating certain rare seizure disorders, indicating legitimate medical applications.

However, ongoing studies highlight that much about CBD’s effects remains to be fully understood. Researchers caution that using CBD products can pose risks such as liver damage, adverse interactions with other drugs, and side effects like drowsiness, diarrhea, and mood changes. Especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, the safety of CBD is uncertain, emphasizing the need for caution.

Many CBD products on the market are not strictly regulated, leading to inconsistencies in labeling and bioactive content. Tests have found that some products contain higher or lower levels of CBD than advertised, and some include psychoactive THC or contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, or bacteria. There are also products with synthetically produced forms like Delta-8 THC, which can produce psychoactive effects.

While CBD holds promise for wellness and medicinal purposes, consumers should approach its use carefully. Consulting healthcare professionals is advisable, especially for those on other medications or with health conditions. Overall, although research is promising, comprehensive safety and efficacy data are still limited, underscoring the importance of cautious use and further investigation.

Concluding Outlook and Industry Forecasts

The future of the CBD industry appears highly promising, with substantial growth expected over the next 5 to 10 years. Currently, the global CBD market was valued at approximately $22.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach an impressive $108 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 17.9%. This rapid expansion is fueled by increasing consumer awareness, broader legal acceptance, and a diverse array of product offerings.

In the United States, CBD sales have skyrocketed from $108 million in 2014 to roughly $4.17 billion between 2022 and 2026. Per capita spending on CBD is expected to hit around $18.86 in 2025. The U.S. market leads globally, with a strong focus on innovation and a wide range of products including gummies, oils, capsules, and topicals. Notably, nearly 60% of American adults have tried CBD, primarily for pain, anxiety, and insomnia.

E-commerce channels dominate, with around 40% of sales occurring online, further driving industry growth. As legislation continues to evolve, especially with 47 states having some level of CBD legalization, the marketplace is expected to become more regulated and transparent. Consumer trends show increasing acceptance, with a significant portion of users discovering CBD through health-related reasons or medical recommendations.

Overall, the industry’s trajectory remains upward, with key markets in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific contributing to a vibrant and expanding global footprint. The ongoing research and shifting legal landscape are likely to facilitate further market penetration and sophistication in product development, solidifying CBD’s role in wellness, stress relief, and therapeutic applications.

The Growing Horizon of CBD

As the CBD industry continues its rapid expansion, fueled by consumer demand, legislative progress, and scientific validation, it is poised to reach unprecedented heights in the coming decade. While promising benefits and robust market growth make CBD a key player in health and wellness sectors worldwide, ongoing research, regulation, and safety considerations remain vital. Stakeholders, consumers, and policymakers must navigate this evolving landscape with informed caution to harness the full potential of CBD while safeguarding public health and trust.