5 Wellness Trends & Products Making Cannabis More Mainstream

Cannabis has come a long way from its countercultural roots. From underground markets, cannabis products found their way to wellness shelves next to vitamins and herbal supplements. As it becomes mainstream, more everyday people are using it to find calm and balance.

Innovation, sustainability, and increased transparency are driving the change around the plant, in addition to destigmatization paired with cultural shift, focus on therapeutic and functional aspects of cannabis, as well as product personalization.

Still, some challenges remain, such as legal frameworks that vary by country or region, as well as economic and access barriers, including high prices, taxes, or limited availability.

Nevertheless, the industry continues to diversify. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular categories that are shaping the mainstream cannabis market:

CBD and Hemp Oils and Tinctures

This category of cannabis products is not psychoactive, and it doesn’t produce a high in consumers. It’s available in drops and capsules, and is easily added to food and drinks, allowing for easy control of dosage. While oils are easy to use and have a mild flavor, tinctures absorb quickly and last longer.

Low-Dose / Microdose THC Products

Microdosing cannabis is a technique of taking smaller doses of THC to get a desired effect. Dosage amounts differ from person to person. Considering that the most effective dose depends on individual tolerance and desired effects, a microdose of THC varies between 1 to 5mg. This product category is a great choice for those who want to feel good, without getting high from a single microdose.

Edibles & Beverages

As a non-smoking option of cannabis use, edibles and beverages provide a discreet and convenient way to enjoy the effects. While both product categories are infused with cannabis, they differ in how the cannabinoids are absorbed. With solid edibles, THC is absorbed through digestion. That way, effects come on gradually while lasting longer. Beverages often use nanoemulsion technology, resulting in quicker absorption and more predictable effects.

Topicals & Beauty-Wellness Products

Cannabis-infused balms and creams are skincare and wellness products that deliver cannabinoids directly into the skin, providing localized benefits. The product category, which includes everything from facial creams, body lotions, under eye serums and lip balms to body oils, leverages the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and hydrating properties of both CBD and THC.

Sleep & Recovery Formulations

Those struggling with insomnia can benefit from a single oral dose of CBD, as it can improve the overall quality of their sleep. Even though effects can vary among individuals, cannabidiol is used for the reduction of pain and anxiety, relaxation, and the decrease of stress. All of which are common barriers to falling asleep.