[vc_row row_height_percent=”0″ overlay_alpha=”50″ gutter_size=”3″ column_width_use_pixel=”yes” shift_y=”0″ z_index=”0″ uncode_shortcode_id=”129453″ column_width_pixel=”804″ css=”.vc_custom_1703155206101{padding-top: 50px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”921557″]This article was updated on the 23rd December 2023.
As the CBD oil industry grows, with literally millions of people consuming CBD oil in 2021, more and more people are searching online to find a store to buy CBD oil, whether in the form of CBD gummies, flavoured CBD oral drops to take by mouth or add to their food or drinks, or CBD oil for topical application as part of a beauty and skincare regimen.
Many online shoppers are getting confused by the wide range of different legal hemp products and confusing terminology used by merchants and online communities devoted to cannabis. Some are mistaking hemp oil (made from hemp seeds) with CBD oil, which is extracted from the essential oils of the cannabis plant’s leaves and flowers.
Is there a difference between hemp oil and CBD oil? Yes, hemp oil doesn’t have any cannabidiol (CBD) in it, according to some. It all depends on how you’re using the word “hemp oil.” Still, the correctly accurate terminology in the cultivation and distribution industry side and the merchant commercial side is to refer to CBD concentrate oils as CBD oil. Hemp oil refers to hemp seed oil; the two oils have similarities and significant differences.
By the end of the article, you’ll learn the differences between the two products and how you can know when purchasing one in the shop. But first, let’s take a brief dive into outlining what hemp oil is, how hemp oil is obtained from the cannabis plant to create health and wellness products for consumers, and a summary of widely reported hemp oil benefits for health and wellness. Scientists are even beginning to study hemp oil benefits and their research shows great promise for people who consume hemp oil.
Making Sense of the Options
What is Hemp oil?
Hemp oil, typically hemp seed oil or cannabis sativa seed oil, is procured through cold pressing hemp seeds, a technique akin to that used for extracting olive oil.
Esteemed for its nutritional benefits, hemp seed oils are recognized as a valuable dietary supplement. WebMD acknowledges that hemp oil typically improves skin health, reduces blood pressure, fosters heart health, alleviates pain, diminishes inflammation, and aids in maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
In an extensive review published in the journal Pharmacognosy Reviews, MedicalNewsToday underscores hemp oil’s efficacy in treating skin ailments such as eczema, varicose eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, lichen planus, and acne related to rosacea.
The News Today also references studies exploring the advantages of hemp seed oils in promoting heart, brain, and muscle health. Applying hemp oil, whether topical or ingested, has been widely reported for its health and wellness benefits.
While it’s legal in the UK, hemp oil, typically obtained from cold-pressing hemp seeds, is distinct from CBD oil. It lacks the central nervous system effects, like anxiety or depression relief, commonly sought in CBD oil.
What is CBD?
CBD oil, appealing to those seeking cannabis benefits without the high, contains isolated cannabidiol or a broad spectrum of cannabinoids, excluding tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This oil is produced using methods like CO2 extraction, which involves super cold, pressurized carbon dioxide, akin to a hydraulic cold press but with more intricate chemistry. Project CBD notes that CBD-rich cannabis oil can also be extracted using high-grade grain ethanol or olive oil.
CBD oil is known for its high satisfaction ratings and anecdotal evidence of relief in various disorders and pain management. Medical research increasingly supports cannabidiol’s role in promoting healthy bodies and minds.
Whether used topically, added to food or drinks, or consumed in pre-dosed edibles like gummies, CBD oil does not induce a psychoactive high and is legal in the UK. It contains the critical cannabinoid, cannabidiol (CBD), known for its health benefits. When choosing a product, look for labels listing cannabidiol, full-spectrum hemp, hemp oil, PCR (phytocannabinoid-rich), or PCR hemp extracts to ensure you’re getting the benefits of CBD.
The Distinction Between Hemp Seed Oil and CBD Oils
Understanding the differences and similarities between hemp seed oil and CBD oils is essential, as both originate from the flowering plants of the Cannabaceae family, specifically cannabis indica or cannabis sativa species. However, their derivation and properties distinctly vary.
Hemp seed oil is obtained from the seeds of the hemp plant, in contrast to CBD oil, which is sourced from the plant’s flowers and leaves. The key distinction here is that hemp seed oil contains no cannabinoids such as CBD or THC, as these are not present in the seeds. CBD oils, on the other hand, are produced by extracting these cannabinoids from the plant’s flowers and leaves.
Consequently, CBD oils exhibit effects on the central nervous system, offering potential therapeutic benefits for conditions like inflammation, arthritis, insomnia, depression, and anxiety. In contrast, hemp seed oil, while nutritionally valuable and possessing anti-inflammatory, immune-supportive, and heart-supportive properties, does not directly impact the central nervous system.
For instance, the anti-inflammatory benefits of hemp seed oil may aid in managing conditions like arthritis, but it does not directly treat the nervous system aspects of such diseases. Similarly, while it can contribute to overall nutrition and healthy sleep, it does not address the specific brain and nervous system issues related to insomnia, as CBD oils do.
The confusion between hemp seed oil and CBD oils can be attributed to unclear labelling or hurried purchases without thorough product understanding. When selecting products, it’s important to differentiate between the nutritional attributes of hemp seed oil and the more direct CNS effects of CBD oils derived from the hemp plant.
Understanding Carrier Oils in CBD Oil Production
In the world of CBD oils, the term ‘carrier oil’ plays a crucial role. Carrier oils, also known as base oils, are used to dilute concentrated extracts like CBD to an appropriate strength and improve the delivery of the active ingredients. These oils are essential in the formulation of CBD products as they facilitate easier absorption of CBD into the body, enhance the taste, and extend the shelf life of the product.
Hemp Oil as a Carrier in CBD Oils
One popular carrier oil option in CBD oil production is hemp oil. This choice is particularly appealing because hemp oil itself is derived from the same plant as CBD, ensuring compatibility and maintaining the integrity of the plant profile. Hemp oil as a carrier brings its own set of benefits, including additional nutritional value, such as essential fatty acids and vitamins, which complement the health benefits of CBD.
When hemp oil is used as a carrier, it synergizes with the CBD extract, creating a more holistic approach to wellness. This combination leverages the benefits of both hemp seed oil and CBD, offering a well-rounded, nutrient-rich product. The choice of hemp oil as a carrier in CBD oils not only enhances the efficacy of CBD but also contributes to the overall nutritional profile of the product.
Frequently Asked Questions
[/vc_column_text][vc_accordion gutter_simple=”0″ active_tab=”0″ uncode_shortcode_id=”877638″][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”Which is better for sleep, CBD or hemp oil?” tab_id=”d21d5937-3bb0-21555678914001ce56-249c1703154286495″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”176247″]Full-spectrum CBD oil is generally considered more effective for sleep issues, as it can have a calming effect on the central nervous system. Hemp oil, while nutritious, typically doesn’t have the same direct impact on sleep.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”Is hemp and CBD the same thing?” tab_id=”6dad8f3c-7309-81555678914001ce56-249c1703154286495″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”133117″]No, they are not the same. CBD is a compound found in hemp and cannabis plants, while hemp oil is a nutrient and omega-rich culinary oil made from the seeds of hemp plants.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”Which is better for hair growth, CBD oil or hemp oil?” tab_id=”9346230d-a835-91555678914001ce56-249c1703154286495″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”421279″]Hemp oil is good for hair growth due to its high omega-fatty acid content. CBD oil may also benefit hair health, but hemp oil typically has a more direct, nutrient-based approach to enhancing hair quality.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”Does hemp seed oil help with anxiety?” tab_id=”1555679162900-3-1ce56-249c1703154286495″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”455966″]Hemp seed oil doesn’t directly help with anxiety. While nutritious, it lacks the cannabinoids found in CBD oil that are known for their anxiety-reducing effects.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”Can hemp oil make you sleepy?” tab_id=”1703007979072-4-61703154286495″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”105545″]Hemp oil doesn’t typically induce sleepiness. Its primary benefits are nutritional rather than sedative, unlike some CBD oils which may aid in promoting sleep.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”What does hemp oil do to the brain?” tab_id=”1703154387116-5-5″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”118853″]Hemp oil is rich in omega fatty acids, which can support brain health. However, it doesn’t have the same direct cognitive effects as CBD, which interacts with the brain’s cannabinoid receptors.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”What are the negative side effects of hemp seed oil?” tab_id=”1703154405795-6-5″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”160015″]Hemp seed oil is generally safe, but in rare cases, it may cause mild digestive issues or allergic reactions, particularly in individuals sensitive to hemp plants.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”What are the disadvantages of hemp?” tab_id=”1703154422847-7-2″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”178324″]The disadvantages of hemp include potential agricultural challenges, such as its sensitivity to certain environmental conditions. Also, there can be regulatory and market confusion between hemp products and psychoactive cannabis products.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”2″ title=”Can you feel the effects of hemp oil?” tab_id=”1703154443580-8-5″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”167685″]While hemp oil is nutritionally beneficial, it doesn’t produce the ‘feeling’ or psychoactive effects associated with CBD or THC. Hemp oils typically offer health benefits without altering sensation or perception.[/vc_column_text][/vc_accordion_tab][/vc_accordion][/vc_column][/vc_row]
