The History of CBD: How the Industry Changed Over the Years

The History of CBD: How the Industry Changed Over the Years

The potential health benefits of CBD might feel like a relatively new finding. However, it has been used as a natural remedy for centuries, and scientists have long considered and studied its possible uses.

 

As CBD is becoming increasingly popular for various ailments, it is time to look back on its history to learn more about its road to legalization. Continue reading to learn how the CBD industry has changed over the years.

 

The First Recorded Use Was in 2727 BC

 

When people think of CBD, they likely view it as a new natural remedy, but this isn’t the case. Both CBD and medical marijuana have been used across communities since ancient times. The first recorded use was by a Chinese emperor in 2727 BC, as he is believed to have drunk cannabis tea to ease gout, improve his memory, fight malaria, and treat other ailments.

 

Cannabis was Legal Until 1937 – Halting Medical Research

 

Cannabis products were once legal for sale in drug stores across America if they were clearly labeled and regulated. However, the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 was the first anti-cannabis law to prohibit the sale in the United States. Following its criminalization in 1970, research ground to a halt on the medical benefits of cannabis.

 

CBD Isolated for the First Time in 1940

 

In 1940, a research team from Illinois University isolated cannabidiol (CBD) for the first time. The researchers discovered the cannabis plant contained many compounds without the psychoactive effects associated with marijuana. In addition to identifying the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD, they isolated THC, which is the cannabinoid that causes a high. However, it took until 1963 for the information to become clear about the compounds.

 

 

The Decriminalization of Cannabis Began in 1973

 

Individual states began decriminalizing cannabis in 1973, starting with Oregan. Since the 1970s, many US states have legalized cannabis for medical use, while a rare few have legalized it for recreational and medical purposes.

 

A British Pharmaceutical Group Trialled CBD in 1998

 

Aware of its potential health benefits, a British pharmaceutical group embarked on official CBD medical trials in 1998. Cut to seven years later, the Figi family reported they had reduced their daughter’s 300 seizures per week due to CBD use. In addition, the findings increased reporting on the health potential of CBD and medical marijuana.

 

Hemp is Legalized Across 50 States in 2018

 

Following the approval of the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp and its extracts were legalized for production and sale. As a result, it is now legal to sell CBD oil and other minimal THC content products. Yet, each state can determine the licensure and regulation of hemp products. Also, in some states like Virginia, people must have a prescription from a doctor to receive CBD oil. For this reason, it is a smart idea to review state law before buying THC products.

 

CBD Sales Boosted the US Economy by $4.6 Billion in 2020

 

Two years after the national legalization of hemp products, CBD sales increased the economy by $4.6 billion. There are  no signs of its popularity slowing down, too, as the industry is projected to grow to $20 billion by 2024. As the industry grows in popularity and diversity, CBD usage may become more commonplace.