If you’re new to the world of medical or recreational cannabis, you have many questions. One of these burning questions is probably the difference between CBD and hemp oils.
While CBD oil and hemp oil are similar, they do have some distinct differences. Mainly, they’re different in production and use.
Before you choose one or the other, it’s important to understand their differences. Your goals with the products will determine which type you use.
The world of hemp and marijuana is new and exciting. You have one burning question: CBD oil vs hemp oil – what’s the difference?
Before you get started with either one, read this guide to find out the key differences between the two.
What Is Hemp Oil?
Hemp oil is a derivative of the hemp plant. It’s made from pressed hemp seeds.
Hemp is a variation of the cannabis plant that is usually cultivated for industrial purposes. For millennia, hemp has been revered for its strong fibers and nutritional value.
Today, its value persists and is perhaps a rediscovery.
Hemp plants contain little THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for the marijuana high. This means that as a whole, the plant cannot get you high.
Furthermore, hemp seeds contain no THC at all. However, some hemp oils may contain trace amounts of THC as a result of residual plant matter on the seeds.
This small amount will not be enough to get you high.
Possibly one of the biggest differences between CBD oil and hemp oil is that hemp products including hemp oil may or may not contain CBD. CBD is a cannabinoid that provides many benefits of its own. However, some people prefer products that only contain the benefits of hemp and not CBD.
While hemp oil may not contain as many cannabinoids as CBD oil, it is still packed with beneficial terpenes, and other photo compounds from the hemp plant.
How Is Hemp Oil Used?
Hemp oil is a popular choice for those seeking a dietary supplement that offers a range of benefits. As stated above, hemp is high in nutritional value.
One of the most astonishing aspects of hemp is the ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids. That’s a ratio of 3:1 on average.
Humans evolved eating a ratio of 1:1, so your intake should be as close to equal as possible. Unfortunately, most Americans consume about 16 times as much Omega-6 fatty acids compared to Omega-3s.
Hemp oil is low in saturated fats. It has a nutty flavor that many people enjoy. For this reason, it’s become a popular addition to many kitchens.
It’s a good alternative to other cooking oils that are higher in saturated fats.
Hemp oil is high in protein and antioxidants. The proteins found in hemp are much easier to digest than other plant proteins. The antioxidants help keep your body clear of free radicals.
An antioxidant-rich diet promotes healthy cell growth and prevents long-term illnesses. These illnesses could include cancer and heart disease.
Although hemp products may not contain CBD, as mentioned, they are rich in terpenes. Many people also use hemp products because of this fact.
Terpenes give hemp its unique flavor and aroma which many people find appealing. Terpenes are also thought to have many therapeutic benefits as well. Linalool is just one specific terpene found in hemp. Linalool has shown to have many positive effects including anti-anxiety and pain relief.
Another terpene, beta-caryophyllene, acts similarly to a cannabinoid. Beta-caryophyllene is not a cannabinoid but, it stimulates cannabinoid receptors in the body like a cannabinoid. In turn, it activates a cellular response to important bodily functions like pain, mood, and sleep. Like CBD, without the combination of THC, beta-caryophyllene will not get you high.
More and more people are also using hemp for its anti-inflammatory properties which can be helpful in relieving skin conditions as well as arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory effects have also been believed to boost immune response as well as help with certain neurological conditions.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil can be derived from the hemp plant or the marijuana plant and is high in cannabidiol (CBD). CBD oil is extracted from the stalks, leaves, and flowers of the plant using specialized extraction methods.
When extracted from hemp plants the plants are specially cultivated to contain higher concentrations of CBD and lower concentrations of THC. This will then produce a product that contains less than .3% THC making it legal in all 50 states.
When CBD is extracted from marijuana plants, the plants are typically cultivated to contain high amounts of CBD and THC. These types of CBD products contain more than .3% THC and are not legal in every state.
Much like hemp oil, legal CBD oils contain little to no THC. However, it is worth it to check the label and the reputation of the company to know whether or not your CBD product contains high amounts of THC or not. Whether or not it will contain THC depends on the intended use of the product and the plant from which it is derived.
How Is CBD Oil Used?
CBD oil is often used for its medical benefits. CBD has a wide variety of medical applications.
It may help with depression, anxiety, chronic pain, epilepsy, and more.
CBD promotes the body to use its own cannabinoids within the endocannabinoid system.
Previously, researchers believed that CBD bound directly to the CB2 receptors. These receptors play a vital role in the immune and nervous system functions.
Many people have turned to CBD as a natural pain reliever. It’s been shown to greatly improve chronic pain and inflammation.
It’s also proven to have potential benefits regarding addictive behaviors. Most notably, CBD may benefit people struggling with nicotine and opioid addictions.
More research is needed, but CBD shows promising results in regard to fighting cancer. It’s shown to have antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic properties.
CBD also shows promising results as an antipsychotic. Traditional antipsychotics usually come with terrible side effects.
Side Effects of CBD Oil and Hemp Oil?
An average adult will usually be able to withstand a range of doses. Some people find the correct dose depends on the ailment and overall response you want to achieve. It is best to start with smaller doses and increase the dose if you feel you need more. Keep in mind that it may take some time for you to feel the continual effects of CBD oil or hemp oil. Try giving it a few days with a smaller dose before increasing.
Side effects are rare and mild. The most common side effects include tiredness and diarrhea.
Neither CBD oil or hemp oil is addictive, and no fatal reports of overdose from either have been reported. In most cases, people do not build a tolerance to CBD oil or hemp oil. Some even find they need to you use less over time to receive their desired effect instead of more.
CBD Oil vs Hemp Oil: Which Should You Choose?
Ultimately, whether you use CBD or hemp oils will depend on the desired effects you’re seeking.
Hemp oil offers a variety of potential health benefits when used as a dietary supplement. It offers a good source of protein, fatty acids, and more. It also has a variety of therapeutic benefits to consider.
On the other hand, CBD oil has a variety of medicinal benefits. These include the treatment of cancer, epilepsy, mood disorders, and more.
While more research is needed on the medical benefits of CBD oil, results appear to be promising.
If you plan to use CBD oil as a part of your treatment regimen, you should consult your physician. They’ll help you integrate CBD with your existing medicines & supplements, and assist you in figuring proper dosing.
On the Issue of Legality
The legal status of cannabis is highly contested, and, in some jurisdictions, unclear.
You should check your state and local laws before you buy or consume any cannabis product.
Hemp oils and CBD oils that do not contain more than .3% THC are not prohibited.
You can buy hemp oil without CBD across the country from many different grocery and health food stores. Hemp oil is sold and marketed as a dietary supplement.
If you plan to buy CBD oil, you can find a variety of products online or in places like dispensaries or headshops.
However, you may be limited in the amount you can buy, depending on the state.
Remember that it is illegal to purchase CBD products containing THC in some states and you should not travel between states with any CBD products containing THC, as this is a felony.
Getting Started with the Different Oils
Both hemp and CBD oils have different uses and benefits. You may decide to use one over the other. You may use both, depending on your own personal needs.
Consult a physician to find out which one will work best for your needs.
We hope you found an answer to the question: CBD oil vs hemp oil – what’s the difference?
Simply, hemp oil has high nutritional and therapeutic value while CBD oil has many potential medicinal benefits. You can find out more here about CBD and how it used.
Due to FDA Regulations, we recommend that you do your own research on CBD products. We also suggest that you read the reviews on our website; where our customers record their real-world results of using our products.
