As we embrace an era of increased health consciousness, many find themselves asking, “Is cannabis the new trend in wellness?”
Massive legislative progress, growing societal acceptance, and innovative product development have catapulted cannabis to the forefront of wellness culture. As the negative stigma fades, the therapeutic potential of this natural plant is making a significant impression on people worldwide.
The Great Green “Rebranding”
Once labeled an illegal substance, cannabis now finds itself in a well-deserved place of recognition and respect.
More and more people are breaking away from the stereotypical image of cannabis users enveloped in smoke and embracing a new narrative of health and wellness. No longer just a “joint,” cannabis products today encompass beautifully packaged edibles, therapeutic oils, skin care products, and more.
Cannabis itself has been rebranded in a sense, shifting away from colloquial names like “weed” and “pot” to a more scientifically accurate term, “cannabis.” This language reflects a broader societal shift in recognizing the plant’s potential beyond recreational use and into the realm of wellness and therapy.
Cannabis and the Wellness Industry
Cannabis wellness trends are taking the beauty, food, and fitness industries by storm.
Mass market beauty companies are curating entire product lines centered around cannabis, marketing relaxing items like THC-infused lip balms and CBD-enriched bath products. These topicals offer skincare benefits and potential medicinal relief, given their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Edibles are no longer restricted to baked goods but have diversified into an array of products, including mints and freeze-dried fruits, all with detailed labels, serving size recommendations, and a list of ingredients. Cannabis confectioners are also designing gourmet CBD and THC-infused chocolates, further cementing the plant’s status within the food industry.
Wellness spas are even integrating cannabis into their services, with THC-infused massages and cannabis yoga sessions becoming increasingly popular. The movement towards a more holistic approach to health and wellness has been a key driver for the inclusion of cannabis within these sectors.
The Rise of CBD
Another key component of the cannabis health and wellness trend is the rise of cannabidiol (CBD) products.
CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant, is rapidly becoming a go-to wellness supplement. Unlike THC, its more famous counterpart, CBD doesn’t produce the “high” typically associated with cannabis use, making it more appealing to individuals seeking the plant’s potential health benefits without the psychoactive effects.
A huge variety of CBD-infused products are available on the market, from oils and capsules to edibles, topical creams, and even pet treats. These products may offer a range of benefits, including anxiety relief, sleep improvement, pain management, and more. A report published in The Permanente Journal indicates that CBD might have a role in managing anxiety and insomnia.
CBD-infused skincare products are also gaining popularity. These products leverage CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties to help alleviate skin conditions like acne and psoriasis. According to a study in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, CBD shows promise as a potential treatment for acne due to its ability to reduce sebum production and its anti-inflammatory effects.
As the CBD trend continues to flourish, many of these claims are still being researched to expand our understanding of exactly how CBD works to support wellness goals.
Organic Farming Practices and Cannabis
Organic cultivation methods are also helping to push the cannabis trend toward an eco-friendly trajectory.
As organic farming trends surge, cannabis cultivation is also hopping on the green bandwagon. Growers are leveraging natural sunlight and pesticide-free farming practices to produce high-quality cannabis. As noted in a study by Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, cannabis grown under the sun may have a higher level of terpenes, enhancing its smell, taste, and potential health benefits.
For individuals that already prioritize an organic lifestyle, having the option of organically-grown cannabis makes it even more appealing.
The Role of Cannabis in Healthcare
Historically known for its medicinal properties, cannabis continues to make waves in modern healthcare.
Cannabis has long been recognized for its potential health benefits, dating back to the reign of Chinese Emperor Fu Hsi in 2900 BC. With easing regulations, we’re witnessing a resurgence of interest in its therapeutic properties.
Cannabis has shown promise in managing pain, reducing inflammation, and alleviating symptoms of several conditions, including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease, as detailed in studies like this one. Expert reports have gone so far as to say that research data shows that cannabinoid-based medications, specifically those containing THC, hold potential therapeutic value for patients in need of pain relief, nausea and vomiting control, and more.
While scientists continue to explore these benefits, the anecdotal evidence supporting cannabis health and wellness can’t be ignored.
Cannabis vs. Opiates: A Safer Alternative?
Could cannabis offer a solution to the opiate crisis? Some experts think so.
A growing body of research supports cannabis as a potentially safer alternative to opiates for pain management. Unlike opiates, cannabis has never been directly attributed to any fatalities in the U.S., which has sparked significant interest in its potential as an alternative to opioid-based pain management.
Furthermore, studies like this one reveal cannabis’s anti-microbial properties and potential effectiveness against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which could revolutionize our approach to treating bacterial infections.
The Legal Landscape of Cannabis
The legal status of cannabis continues to evolve, influencing its rise in the wellness sector.
As of April 2023, 38 states have legalized medical marijuana in the U.S., with 23 states (plus Washington D.C., Guam, and the Northern Marina Islands) allowing its recreational use. This increasing legalization is fueling the growth of cannabis wellness products and services, making them more accessible to those who could potentially benefit from it.
Find the Connection Between Cannabis and Wellness in Your Life
In the ever-evolving world of wellness, cannabis stands as a promising player. While research continues to unpack its full potential, the increased acceptance of cannabis in wellness culture is a testament to its transformative power.
As we navigate the fast-paced shifts in cannabis health and wellness, it’s crucial to stay informed, aware and always prioritize responsible use. Whether cannabis will continue to grow as a wellness trend remains to be seen, but it’s undeniably sparked a significant shift in how we approach health and well-being overall.
At Giving Tree Dispensary, we’re constantly staying on top of the latest breakthroughs and cannabis trends. Whether you have questions about medical marijuana in AZ, new cannabis strains, or how to choose the best products for your goals, our dispensary team can help. Explore our wide range of cannabis pre-rolls, flowers, edibles, and more when you visit our Phoenix dispensary today!
