Consumers are becoming increasingly interested in cannabis-derived products and their benefits, but it can be confusing to know which types of products are right for you. Within the cannabinoid market, you’ll find an abundance of CBD oils, hemp oils, cannabis oils and a plethora of cannabinoid-infused products. We’re going to take a look at two of the most popular oils: hemp oil and CBD oil. Read on to discover their differences, their similarities and their benefits, to help you decide which cannabis derivative is most suited to your needs.
What is Hemp Oil?
Hemp oil (also known as hemp seed oil) is a lipid derived from the hemp seeds of the cannabis plant. It is high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, amongst other minerals and vitamins, and is used in many products such as cooking oils and skin and haircare products. Hemp seed oil is legal in the UK and available to purchase in many online and high street stores. You will not get high from using hemp seed oil as it doesn’t contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
It’s important to note that although cannabis-derived CBD and hemp oil are both sometimes referred to interchangeably, in reality, they are quite different – for instance, cannabidiol (CBD) contains a wealth of compounds such as cannabinoids and terpenes, but hemp oil has minimal amounts of these particular elements.
How is Hemp Oil Made?
Hemp seed oil derives from the seeds of the hemp plant. It is extracted by cold-pressing the seeds, in a similar manner to the way olive oil is produced.
Benefits of Hemp Oil
Hemp oil contains essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6. These fatty acids are important for providing energy, promoting healthy skin and hair, improving cardiovascular health (by improving total cholesterol) and helping the body better absorb nutrients. Hemp oil is also rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Some people enjoy using hemp oil as a massage oil, and hemp oil can also be used in the manufacturing of fibres and clothing.
What is CBD Oil?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid (chemical compound) found in the buds and flowers of the hemp plant. It has a number of potential wellbeing benefits and is extracted and infused into oils, sprays, capsules, gummies and topicals. CBD oil does not get you high, as, like hemp oil, it doesn’t contain THC.
How is CBD Oil Made?
CBD oil is produced by the extraction of the cannabinoid from hemp flowers and buds. It undergoes a more complex process than hemp oil. There are different extraction methods but one of the most popular is CO2 extraction, which involves the use of pressurised carbon dioxide to remove compounds such as cannabinoids and terpenes from the raw hemp plant. CBD is often blended with a carrier oil; this is frequently coconut oil but can also be hemp oil.
CBD can also be extracted from marijuana (another variety of the cannabis plant). However, marijuana is illegal in many countries, so CBD products are typically hemp-derived.
When purchasing a CBD product, it’s important to check the Certificate of Analysis provided by the brand to prove third-party testing and guarantee the purity of the product.
Benefits of CBD Oil
CBD oil has been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits. The cannabinoid has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, as well as aid in managing pain. CBD has also been studied for its potential to help improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and aid in overall stress management. CBD oil may also contain trace amounts of other beneficial compounds like terpenes and flavonoids.
How Does CBD Work?
When CBD enters the body it interacts with the mammalian endocannabinoid system (ECS) to help restore the natural balance of the body (homeostasis). The ECS is responsible for a slew of physiological processes such as appetite, mood, sleep, cognitive function and pain perception. CBD stimulates two receptors of the ECS known as CB1 and CB2, essentially providing a boost to the system.
Does Hemp Oil Contain CBD?
Pure hemp oil does not contain CBD, as the cannabinoid is not present within hemp seeds. However, check the labels of over-the-counter hemp and hemp seed oils, which may have been mixed with CBD oil and/or additional ingredients.
Is Hemp Oil or CBD Oil Better for Anxiety?
The answer to this question is largely subjective, as CBD oil and hemp oil work differently for different people. It is typically agreed, however, that CBD oil may be beneficial for reducing anxiety and helping manage stress levels, while hemp oil can aid in providing essential fatty acids and antioxidants for overall wellness benefits. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which of these two oils works best for you. Whichever one you choose, be sure to consult with your doctor and take CBD oil or hemp oil in moderation.
Is it Safe to Take Hemp Oil and CBD Oil Together?
It’s completely safe to take CBD oil and hemp oil together.
The Bottom Line
Although they share a similar consistency and both derive from hemp, there are some clear differences between hemp and CBD oil. Most notably, hemp oil does not contain CBD since it is extracted from hemp seeds which do not contain the cannabinoid. Instead, hemp contains high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Their benefits differ somewhat too; CBD is renowned for providing effective relief from anxiety, stress, sleep problems, pain and inflammation. Hemp oil, on the other hand, is believed to have more nutritional benefits and can improve cardiovascular health, provide energy and promote healthy hair and skin.
