The CBD Industry Is Booming, but Its Benefits Haven't Been Proven Cannabidiol, better known as CBD, is a widespread phenomenon because of its alleged health benefits. Most commonly found in oil form, the hemp product comes as chocolate, lotions and gummies and allegedly helps with pain relief, anxiety and other ailments. According to New Frontier Data, the CBD industry is expected to rake in more than $1.2 billion by 2022, which is worth triple its sales in 2018. Small retailers and large corporations, such as Walgreens and CVS, have invested in the industry. Despite its growing popularity, no clinical studies have linked its use to the supposed benefits. The future of CBD remains uncertain as the Food and Drug Administration decides whether to regulate it as a prescription-based drug or dietary supplement.