Cannabis Compounds Go Mainstream in Canada
Cannabis compounds like CBD have gone through a radical shift in public perception in Canada over the past few years. What was once stigmatized and associated with the counterculture movement has now firmly entered into the mainstream. This transformation comes on the back of changing social attitudes, expanded access and legalization efforts, and growing awareness of the potential health and wellness benefits of cannabis-derived products in Canada.
Since Legalization, CBD Use Has Risen
In a short half-decade timeframe since the Cannabis Act legalized recreational cannabis in 2018, the rise of CBD has been meteoric in Canada. According to consumer research, one-quarter of Canadians today currently use CBD products regularly or are interested in trying them out. That translates to an estimated 4 million CBD users domestically as the cannabis compound continues gaining traction across the country.
Industry analysts predict these numbers still have substantial room for growth in the coming years. Statista projects over 16 million Canadian cannabis users by 2027, fuelled by the continuing destigmatization of the plant along with the promise held by both THC and CBD. Already Canada has come a long way in a short time regarding acceptance, with over 60% of Canadians now believing cannabis should be fully legal according to public opinion polls.
What Accounts for the Death of the Cannabis Taboo in Canada?
So how did Canada get to the point where cannabis compounds and products now sit poised to penetrate over 16 million consumer markets in the near future? Several intertwining factors help explain the dissipation of taboos surrounding cannabis in this country:
Legalization Momentum
While cannabis remains prohibited federally in the U.S., Canada took the plunge to fully legalize at the federal level in 2018. That momentum diminishes historical stigmas associated with the plant that have hindered research and widespread adoption. Canadians today have access to THC, CBD and other compounds compared to just a decade ago.
Scientific Validation
With nationwide access barriers lowered through legalization, Canadian researchers can better explore cannabis compounds for potential therapeutic uses without federal impediments. Strong evidence exists concluding that CBD offers a range of medicinal benefits from pain and anxiety relief to anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Human trials further back up many of the health claims attributed to CBD which engenders trust in the supplement.
Anecdotal Advocacy
Beyond formal research, Canadian consumer testimonials represent one of the most powerful dynamics reshaping public attitudes about cannabis. As more Canadians personally experience positive outcomes incorporating CBD into their health regimens, they share those experiences through their social circles. That word-of-mouth advocacy normalizes CBD use by challenging long held misconceptions.
Mainstreaming Consumption Methods
In Canada, ingestion methods have likewise evolved into more familiar and approachable forms. Cannabis consumption no longer conjures images of smoking joints associated with stoner subcultures. Innovations in technology now allow CBD infusion into everyday Canadian consumer products while precision-dosed oils present cleaner options. These let CBD nicely integrate into ordinary wellness routines removing barriers and stigma.
Looking Ahead
By all accounts, the outdated taboos once imposed unfairly on cannabis now appear relegated to the pages of history in Canada. Favourable trends in legalization, research, and product developments point to a bright future. The 16+ million projected CBD consumers on the horizon offer the exciting promise of cannabis reaching its full potential for the benefit of all Canadians. While work remains in ensuring equitable access, outdated social norms no longer pose any significant barrier. The great cannabis awakening in Canada indeed continues opening minds from coast to coast to coast.
