A new report from experts in the field of nutrition and health lists five of the most popular supplements people have taken since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. Not surprisingly, three of the five products are related to marijuana. It’s another sign people are learning about the health benefits of cannabis.

The report, published by the Natural Products Insider, shows that terpenes, cannabinoids and Delta-8 THC all have become popular among the buying public. That includes people who have not used cannabis in the past.

The website reports that people of different ages use these supplements for different reasons. They wrote, “Baby Boomers want products that promote strong bones, healthy aging and cognitive function, while millennials are seeking natural ways to increase mental stamina, combat anxiety and reduce the impact of stress.”

The fact that cannabis-related products have risen so high in popularity is an important development, as 86% of U.S. residents take some type of dietary supplement, according to the National Law Review. The health benefits of cannabis now are part of that trend.

Terpenes

The cannabis plant is famously filled with terpenes. These non-psychoactive compounds provide cannabis its aroma. They also offer physical and mental health benefits. An increasing number of products include terpenes to promote improved health and wellness. For example, pinene is shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, while linalool can act as a sedative and reduce feelings of anxiety.

While they have become well-known among those who use weed for wellbeing, the use of terpenes is now spreading into the mainstream. Many topicals and tinctures feature terpenes.

Cannabinoids (CBD)

CBD quickly became popular across the nation after the U.S. Congress gave the greenlight to its use in the 2018 Farm Bill. CBD products contain only trace amounts of THC at most. The market for CBD products, which were not even on the shelves until the past few years, will increase to $16.6 billion by 2025, according to estimates from industry experts.

However, this is just the tip of the health benefits iceberg. Hundreds of cannabinoid compounds exist in marijuana. Research is ongoing to find out how they may provide support to users for better health. Cannabis consumers should keep a close watch for new CBD products and other variations of chemical compounds to emerge as research finds more benefits.

Delta-8 THC

Delta-8 THC, sometimes referred to as “diet weed,” is created from hemp. Part of its popularity rests on the fact it does not provide as potent a “high” as the Delta-9 THC found in most weed. Research also shows Delta-8 THC may contain anti-inflammatory properties, neuroprotection and act to combat nausea.

The current issue is that the federal government may make Delta-8 illegal, just like Delta-9, because it does have psychoactive properties, even if they are mild. However, it is picking up in popularity because it has a mild cognitive impact and many potential benefits.

As its popularity grows, the many health benefits of cannabis are coming to light for more and more people. As research continues into cannabis, expect more products to hit the market, giving consumers a wide range of options in how to use cannabis to bolster their wellbeing and good health.