Hemp oil and CBD oil are both healthy hemp-derived products. But there is a distinct difference between the types of hemp oils you'll want to know, particularly if you're looking for the balancing benefits of CBD.
The hemp industry is growing astonishingly, enough to make your head spin. But, with new hemp products popping up every few months, it's no wonder that even the most informed individuals can get left behind and mix up the various offerings on the market.
One of the biggest sources of confusion among hemp enthusiasts is the difference between hemp oil and CBD oil. It's understandable why anyone would be perplexed, considering they originate from the same plant and share strikingly similar names. Some folks use these names interchangeably, but these are two different products with unique uses and applications.
Key takeaways:
- CBD oil is a type of hemp oil, but not all hemp oil is CBD oil. Hemp oil is a common term to describe any oil that is extracted from any part of the hemp plant.
- In many instances, hemp oil is used to describe nutritious hemp seed oil. Hemp seed oil is made from the plant's nutrient-rich seeds and doesn't contain CBD.
- CBD oil is made from the plant's stalks and flowers naturally high in CBD. Unlike hemp seed oil, CBD oil contains high levels of CBD.
By understanding the differences and knowing when to use each, you can elevate your experience and maximize the benefits of either product. So, let's dive in and look at hemp oil and CBD oil. So, buckle up; it's going to be an enlightening ride!
What is Hemp Oil?
Moving forward, we'll use the term hemp oil to describe hemp seed oil, as it's used most widely.
Hemp oil is a type of edible culinary oil made by cold-pressing the nutritious seeds of the hemp plant. This delightful dark to light green oil boasts a robust nutty flavor that adds a unique touch to your culinary adventures.
What makes hemp oil even more remarkable is its impressive nutritional makeup. Often described as a "superfood," hemp oil from hemp seeds contains an incredible 70 to 90 percent of polyunsaturated fatty acids, also known as those fantastic healthy fats. Plus, it's loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, tocopherols, and linoleic acids, making it a true powerhouse.
Hemp seeds contain very little cannabinoids, if any, so hemp oil is not a reliable source of CBD. Instead, it's primarily used as a substitute for traditional cooking oils and a valuable addition to any diet. It can also be infused into body care products to nourish your skin, hair, and nails.
How is it Made?
Hemp seed oil is made from the hemp plant's seeds using a process that's quite reminiscent of how olive oil is made. First, the seeds undergo a gentle cold-pressing technique to extract the oil, like squeezing the goodness out of olives.
Once the oil is successfully extracted from the seeds, it's carefully stored in a cool, dark place, ensuring optimal conditions for processing and shipping. Additional purification steps may be used to ensure the end product is pure hemp oil, free from any other compounds.
How is it Used?
Hemp seed oil has versatile applications. Most of the time, it's used in culinary applications to elevate the flavors of favorite dishes. For example, it can be drizzled over vegetables or whipped into salad dressings.
Many people turn to hemp seed oil to boost their everyday nutrition and for good reason. This marvelous oil provides the body with vital minerals, nutrients, proteins, and fatty acids essential for your well-being.
Hemp oil also has many applications industrially. Thanks to its unique drying properties, hemp oil is a valuable ingredient in producing paints, varnishes, and other coating materials. It even lends its talents to the flooring world by contributing to creating plastic flooring components like linoleum.
Potential Benefits of Hemp Oil
While hemp seed oil may not enjoy the same level of popularity as CBD oil in the realm of potential benefits, it still packs a powerful punch when boosting your intake of vital nutrients. It's hard to find another food that rivals the incredible nutrient density of hemp seeds. These little powerhouses boast the perfect 3:1 ratio of omega-6 (linoleic) to omega-3 (alpha-linolenic) fatty acids, making them a true nutritional gem.
To understand the complete benefits chart of hemp oil, you need to look at its dense nutritional profile, which includes the following:
- Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids
- Amino acids and protein
- Fiber
- Vitamins A, B6, B12, C, and E
- Beta carotene
- Riboflavin
- Thiamine
- Potassium
- Calcium
- Phosphorous
- Magnesium
- Iron
- Zinc
Hemp seed oil delivers the nutrients our body needs daily to function at its best.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is not the same as hemp seed oil. While the two are extracted from hemp, there are important differences between CBD oil and hemp oil.
CBD oil is made from the plant's stalks and flowers. While it contains many essential vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, it also boasts exceptional terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids like CBD.
CBD is the most abundant of the more than 100 cannabinoids in hemp. These plant-derived chemical compounds interact with the body's central regulatory system, the endocannabinoid system. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis in the body to optimize functions like mood, memory, appetite, sleep, and immune response. As a result, CBD products have become highly sought-after over the years because of the cannabinoid's natural wellness effects.
Learn more: What is CBD?
How Is It Made?
Making CBD oil begins with extracting CBD from the leaves and seeds of the hemp plant. The preferred extraction method is the remarkable CO2 extraction process, which yields a nutrient-dense product with a high concentration of cannabinoids. This extraction method is popular in the food industry and listed as GRAS or "generally regarded as safe."
This thick plant extract can be combined with a carrier oil to make CBD tinctures. The go-to choice for most CBD oil makers is a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil derived from coconuts. However, other oils such as sunflower, almond, olive, and vegetable can also step up to the plate and play the same role. The carrier oil not only enhances the texture and flavor but also enhances the absorption of CBD.
How Is It Used?
Most people use CBD oil to promote daily balance and overall wellness. CBD has natural balancing benefits that encourage well-being and help you feel and function better. To maximize its benefits, CBD oil should be taken every day. Some people use CBD for sleep, while others prefer CBD oil in the mornings to start the day, giving the body what it needs for peak performance.
Potential Benefits of CBD Oil
CBD interacts with the body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). First discovered in the late 1980s, the ECS regulates the body's general state of balance. CBD helps the ECS keep the body in homeostasis more efficiently by interacting with its CB1 and CB2 receptors.
This interaction activates the endocannabinoid system to better regulate various critical bodily functions, including mood, cognitive function, sleep habits, muscle repair, temperature, etc.
Studies into the benefits of CBD are still ongoing. However, preliminary studies and anecdotal reports show its benefits include:
- encourages balance and optimal functioning
- helps your body perform at its peak every day
- encourages more restful sleep
- supports a complete diet with its long list of nutritious materials like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and more
Similarities Between Hemp and CBD Oil
CBD oil and hemp oil are very different products even though they are harvested from the same plant. However, they do share a few commonalities, including:
- Both oils are derived from the hemp plant.
- Neither will leave you feeling intoxicated or euphoric.
- They are both in liquid form.
- You can consume them internally or apply them topically.
Differences Between Hemp and CBD Oil
CBD oil and hemp oil are more different than similar. Although they come from the same plant and are often confused with each other, they have vast differences that set them apart.
Chemical composition
The most glaring dissimilarity lies in their chemical makeup. Just glance at the labels and ingredients, and you'll see what we mean. For example, hemp oil, also known as hemp seed oil, is extracted from the hemp plant's seeds. It's often used for cooking and can be found as an ingredient in various beauty products.
CBD oil, on the other hand, is derived from the entire hemp plant, encompassing leaves, stalks, and flowers. The star of the show in CBD oil is CBD itself, which can come in different forms like CBD isolate, broad-spectrum, or full-spectrum extracts. CBD oil is typically mixed with a carrier oil to aid in absorption.
While many CBD oils contain additional cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, hemp seed oil contains only the nutrients of hemp seeds.
Production methods
The production methods for these oils also differ significantly. Hemp seed oil is typically extracted by cold pressing the hemp plant seeds. It's a straightforward process that preserves the natural goodness of the seeds.
CBD oil, on the other hand, requires more advanced extraction methods. The most common technique is supercritical fluid extraction or CO2 extraction. Alternatively, some producers opt for solvent-based extraction.
Flavors
When it comes to flavors, hemp seed oil flaunts a mild nutty taste that works well in salads, dressings, and sauces. Conversely, CBD oil can have an earthy plant flavor, but it is also often sweetened or flavored.
CBD content
This is a significant point of confusion because it's a common misconception that CBD and hemp oils contain CBD.
CBD oil contains CBD, as the name suggests, and reliable brands provide detailed lab test results showcasing the cannabinoid and terpene profile. In addition, you can help preserve these valuable compounds and slow the rate of your CBD oil expiring by storing it away from heat and light.
Hemp seed oil, on the other hand, is not a rich source of CBD. So, if you're seeking the benefits of CBD, hemp seed oil is not your best bet.
Monetary value
CBD oil costs more than hemp seed oil due to the processes involved. It's important to exercise caution and ensure you're purchasing legitimate CBD oil from reputable brands. Don't be fooled by products marketed as hemp-based if your goal is to enjoy the benefits of CBD.
Point of purchase
Regarding availability, you can find CBD and hemp oils in various places. CBD oils are readily accessible online, directly from reputable brand websites, wellness facilities, smoke shops, and even health food stores.
Hemp seed oil can be found in local grocery stores, beauty shops, and online retailers. Remember, if you're after the balancing benefits of CBD, hemp seed oil won't deliver the same effects. However, it still serves as a great source of protein and essential fatty acids.
Uses
The applications of both oils vary. Hemp oil is generally a culinary oil used for cooking and salads or in beauty products for skincare and hair.
CBD oil, on the other hand, comes in a small bottle with a dropper top so that you can easily dispense the right amount of CBD. In most cases, you absorb CBD oil sublingually by putting drops under the tongue, but you can also swallow it directly or add it to foods and beverages.
Different labeling
CBD oil and hemp oil have distinct labels to prevent any confusion. Since both substances are derived from hemp, you can expect the brands to mention hemp somehow. They might even feature a charming hemp leaf on the packaging. In addition, CBD and hemp oil can proudly claim to be organic, kosher, non-GMO, and vegan. You might stumble upon both products in the same location on occasion.
However, it's essential to exercise caution and be a savvy shopper. Always take the time to research and carefully read the labels before making a purchase. Check for terms like "hemp seed" or "CBD" to ensure you get the right product.
Selecting the Right Product
We understand how challenging it can be for hemp enthusiasts to tell the difference between CBD and hemp oil. But fear not! When you have a clear idea of what you need, it becomes much easier to identify the right product.
