In recent years, one health and wellness trend has consistently made headlines: the rise of CBD oil. Derived from the cannabis plant, cannabidiol (CBD) has become a key player in the wellness sector all over the world, with the UK being no exception. CBD products, including oils, capsules, and topicals, have claimed the spotlight, offering a myriad of health benefits, from pain management to improved mental health.
CBD oil’s surge in popularity reflects a larger shift in society’s approach to health and wellness, highlighting the growing emphasis on natural, holistic therapies.
Here, we will delve into the world of CBD oil, exploring its varied applications in the realm of health and wellness, and examining its significant impact on the UK’s health industry. From its influence on consumer behaviour to its potential future growth, we’ll unpack the multifaceted role CBD oil is playing in shaping the health landscape in the UK.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of over a hundred compounds known as cannabinoids that are found in the cannabis plant, predominantly derived from the hemp variety in the UK. Hemp is a strain of the Cannabis sativa plant species that are grown specifically for the industrial uses of its derived products, including CBD. It is distinct from the marijuana plant in its function, cultivation, and application.
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Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD is non-psychoactive. This means it does not produce the ‘high’ that is typically associated with cannabis use, making it a more appealing option for those who are looking for relief from various health conditions.
CBD oil is created by extracting the CBD from the cannabis plant and then mixing it with a carrier oil, like hemp seed or coconut oil, to create a product that’s ready for use. This oil is becoming increasingly popular in the wellness sector, with an array of scientific studies suggesting its potential benefits in treating a variety of ailments, including chronic pain, anxiety, and depression, to name a few.
Is CBD Legal in the UK?
In the UK, the legality of CBD oil is clear – as long as it contains less than 0.2% THC, it is legal to buy, sell, and use. This small percentage ensures that the product does not produce any psychoactive effects. It is important to note, however, that while CBD oil is legal and readily available without a prescription, it is still regulated. Sellers must be careful not to make unproven health claims, and the product is to be marketed as a food supplement, not a medicinal product.
Despite these regulations, the popularity of CBD oil in the UK has surged in recent years. This rise in interest can be attributed to growing trends in health and wellness, with more and more people turning to natural remedies.
Uses of CBD Oil in Health and Wellness
The rise in popularity of CBD oil in the UK has largely been driven by its purported health and wellness benefits. From managing chronic pain relief and easing neurological diseases to reports of a significant reduction in high blood pressure to supporting mental well-being, CBD oil has found a plethora of applications in people’s wellness routines, such as:
Pain Management:
CBD oil is commonly used by individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions, including arthritis and multiple sclerosis. CBD interacts with neuro receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system, which sends signals between your cells to help regulate your movement, mood, homeostasis and immune system – potentially helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
Epilepsy Treatment:
CBD oil has been shown to be effective in reducing seizures in people with epilepsy.
Mental Health:
Another major area where CBD oil has gained recognition is mental health. Research suggests that CBD may have potential as a treatment for conditions such as anxiety and depression, offering a natural alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals.
Anxiety Relief:
CBD oil has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety in people with a variety of anxiety disorders, including social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and general anxiety disorder.
Sleep Disorders:
Many people struggling with insomnia or irregular sleep patterns turn to CBD products. Its calming effects can help promote more restful sleep, and some studies suggest it may also affect the sleep cycle positively.
Skin Conditions:
CBD’s potential anti-inflammatory properties have also made it popular in treating skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis. It is increasingly being incorporated into skincare products, with many users claiming it improves skin health.
Reduced Inflammation:
CBD oil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may be beneficial for people with a variety of inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.
What Research and Studies Suggest
While the anecdotal evidence supporting these health benefits is robust and the research on the effectiveness of CBD oil for various health conditions is still in its early stages, there is a growing body of evidence to support its use. For example, a study published in the journal The Lancet found that CBD was effective in reducing seizures in children with epilepsy. Another study, published in the journal Nature Medicine, found that CBD was effective in reducing anxiety in people with social anxiety disorder.
While several human studies have shown promising results, more comprehensive, large-scale clinical trials are being carried out to fully establish the efficacy of CBD oil in these areas. However, the current body of research is encouraging and indicates that CBD oil holds significant potential as a wellness supplement and all the research that has been conducted so far suggests that CBD oil is a safe and effective treatment for a variety of health conditions.
CBD’s Impact on the UK Health Industry
The CBD market in the UK has seen remarkable growth over the past few years. According to data from the Centre for Medicinal Cannabis, the UK CBD market was worth £300 million in 2020, and is expected to more than triple by 2025, potentially reaching around £1 billion. This would make the CBD industry one of the UK’s fastest-growing wellness sectors. But what has caused this interest in the benefits of CBD oil?
Changes in Consumer Behavior and Attitudes Towards CBD Products
This growth can largely be attributed to shifts in consumer attitudes towards CBD oil. The stigma associated with cannabis-derived products is eroding, with a growing acceptance of CBD as a legitimate and beneficial wellness product. A study conducted by Dynata and YouGov in 2020 found that 1 in 10 UK adults have now safely used CBD products, and this number continues to increase.
Demand from the Health and Wellness Industry
The increasing demand for CBD products has also seen a response from a wide array of businesses in the health and wellness sector. From health food shops and pharmacies to yoga studios and spas, many businesses now stock CBD products or incorporate them into their regular services. This growth has also sparked innovation, with a range of new CBD-infused products continually entering the market, such as edibles, drinks, and a wide range of skincare products.
Impact on Wider Industries
Beyond its direct impact on the health and wellness sector, the rise of CBD oils has also influenced related industries. The beauty and cosmetics industry, for example, has seen a surge of CBD-infused products, from creams to lip balms and CBD muscle balm products. Similarly, the food and drink industry has tapped into the trend, with a range of CBD-infused drinks and snacks now widely available. The incorporation of CBD into these sectors further demonstrates its widespread acceptance and the diverse applications it holds.
Challenges Surrounding CBD Oil
Despite its potential benefits and increasing popularity, the use of CBD oil remains a topic of debate, and we have summarised these below.
Legality
Despite its increasing acceptance, CBD oil still faces a number of legal challenges and controversies. Although it’s legal in the UK, the regulations surrounding it are complex. The product must contain no more than 0.2% THC and must be derived from an industrially approved strain of the hemp plant. Additionally, CBD products must be marketed as food supplements and cannot make any medicinal claims unless they have a license from the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), which is a lengthy and expensive process.
Safety
Health and safety concerns also pose challenges. Some people may experience some mild side effects from using CBD oil, such as fatigue, changes in appetite, or mild gastrointestinal discomfort. It is also possible for CBD to interact with certain medications, therefore, it is always recommended for individuals to consult with a medical professional or healthcare provider before commencing its use, especially those with underlying health conditions or those who are taking other medications.
Guidance
While there has been a significant amount of research done into the benefits of CBD oil, some argue that more comprehensive, large-scale studies are required to fully understand the full benefits and potential side effects associated with CBD oil use. This will also help to inform clearer guidance and regulations around the use of wider CBD products.
However, despite these challenges, the CBD oil industry continues to flourish in the UK, with businesses and consumers showing a strong interest in the potential benefits of this natural compound.
The Future of CBD in the UK Health Industry
The CBD market in the UK is expected to continue its significant growth. As more consumers become aware of CBD oil and its potential benefits, and as the scientific community provides more research backing its use, the demand for CBD products is predicted to increase. The CBD market is expected to reach an estimated £1 billion by 2025, reflecting its status as one of the fastest-growing sectors in health and wellness.
Future Research and Clinical Trials
The future will likely bring more rigorous scientific research and clinical trials investigating the benefits and side effects associated with CBD use. This will not only further our understanding of CBD and its applications but could also lead to new product development and increased regulation in the sector.
Regulatory Changes and Their Impact
Regulations surrounding CBD are likely to evolve as more research becomes available. This could potentially make the process of obtaining medicinal status for certain CBD products easier, leading to a broader range of CBD-based treatments being made available.
Impact on Related Industries
As the popularity of CBD oil continues to rise, its influence is likely to permeate further into related industries. We can expect to see more CBD-infused products in sectors like beauty, food and drink, and sports and fitness, reflecting the compound’s versatile applications and far-reaching health benefits.
In a Nutshell…
In conclusion, CBD oil is undeniably shaping the health and wellness industry in the UK. Despite the challenges and controversies has faced, the potential health benefits of CBD oil, combined with shifting consumer attitudes and an evolving regulatory landscape, are driving significant growth in the sector. As we look to the future, it is clear that CBD oil will continue to play a pivotal role in the UK health industry, providing new exciting opportunities.
Why Choose Running On Hempty as Your Supplier?
We, at Running on Hempty, are a warm, family-operated UK-based business specializing in broad-spectrum CBD, hemp, and natural products intended to boost your health and holistic well-being. As a trusted and widely respected provider of high-quality CBD products, we serve as a reliable choice for individuals aiming to integrate CBD into their lifestyle, for the following reasons:
- Guaranteed Quality: Our commitment to dispensing premium CBD products is unwavering. We source our hemp from organic, non-GMO farms to ensure that our products are devoid of any harmful chemicals and pesticides.
- Diverse Product Selection: We pride ourselves on offering an extensive range of broad-spectrum CBD products including oils, capsules, topicals, and edibles, tailored to meet a variety of preferences and requirements.
- Transparent Practices: We maintain an open line of communication regarding our production procedures, extraction techniques, and ingredients used in our product line. This transparency empowers customers to make well-informed decisions when purchasing our CBD products.
- Third-Party Laboratory Testing: As an organization, we prioritize safety and effectiveness, leading us to subject all our products to rigorous third-party laboratory testing to validate their potency, purity, and absence of any contaminants.
- Experienced Customer Service: Our love of CBD products is born out of personal experiences, including the use of natural remedies to mitigate pain associated with endometriosis, M.E., and Lyme disease, as well as anxiety within our family. With a firsthand understanding of CBD’s health benefits and its positive impact on our family’s health, our customer support team is well-versed and able to guide you confidently in selecting the perfect product to meet your needs.
- Positive Client Testimonials: Running on Hempty has received numerous positive feedbacks from content customers, endorsing the quality and efficacy of our CBD products.
View Our CBD Products
By choosing Running on Hempty, you can be confident that you are purchasing high-quality CBD products backed by a company that prioritizes customer satisfaction, safety, and transparency. You can view all our CBD products here and if you have any questions or queries regarding please don’t hesitate to contact us.
While we do our very best to guide and advise all our customers, as with all CBD products, it’s essential for customers to conduct their own research and consult with a healthcare professional before beginning use, to ensure the product is suitable for their specific needs and circumstances.
