Let us be clear: hemp oil is not the same as CBD oil. So, why the confusion? It is probably because some people use these terms interchangeably, but upon further investigation, you’ll realize they are poles apart despite being related.
What sets these two oils apart is the type of plant and the specific part they are made of. CBD oil comes from the hemp plant’s leaves, stalks, and flowers, all of which have high volumes of CBD. Meanwhile, hemp seed oil comes from cannabis sativa plant seeds, which barely have any CBD but are loaded with fatty acids and helpful nutrients.
Hemp Oil Unveiled
This nutrient-rich extract boasts high levels of vitamins B and D and tons of gamma-linolenic acid, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids.
You’ll find plenty of antioxidants here but not a hint of THC and barely any CBD (Trace amounts). That’s because hemp oil is extracted solely from the hemp plant’s seeds, not the flowers, leaves, or any other part. So, in case you’re wondering, you can’t get high from hemp seed oil.
Why Do People Use It?
Without any THC or enough CBD to pack a punch, hemp oil isn’t exactly what you’d use if you’re looking for a trippy escapade. However, it can be used for food, skincare, or nutrition.
A Nutritional Source
The presence of nutrients and helpful acids make this extract a go-to ingredient for various dietary supplements.
Culinary Oil
When we say culinary oil, we really mean finishing oil. That’s because frying this oil will only ruin its nutritional value as the omega fatty acids won’t be able to handle the heat and break down.
Hemp seed oil has an incredibly nutty and earthy flavour, making it an exciting cooking option. It can bring a delightful zest to your dips, salad dressings, or smoothies. Want to keep things simple? Just drizzle some on your plate of veggies!
Skincare
One of the things hemp oil has plenty of is Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which contains tons of health benefits.
The presence of this acid, along with several antioxidants, makes hemp oil a valuable asset in skincare items like moisturizers, creams, and lotions. What’s more, it can also help combat premature skin ageing.
Textile And Industrial uses
Has been done on the role of hemp in textiles and industrial manufacturing. The extract contributes to producing eco-friendly fabrics, high-quality fibres, lubricants, paints, and even biofuels.
Health Benefits Of Hemp Oil
Consuming the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in hemp oil can help maintain your blood pressure and heart rate and ease PMS symptoms such as breast tenderness.
Hemp seed oil also contains calcium, potassium, magnesium, chlorophyll, zinc, carotene, phosphorus, sulfur, iron, and potassium. When dissecting every component, we conclude that it can improve your immune system, combat ageing, and even fight cancer to some degree.
Adverse Effects Of Hemp Oil
Nothing in this world is perfect, and the same goes for hemp oil, which poses several risks despite its incredible benefits. For starters, it might not be helpful for everyone, as several people have reported suffering digestive issues after consuming hemp oil.
Another downside, albeit less severe, is that the extract could be more accessible to store. The fatty acids it is loaded with make it susceptible to degradation when exposed to air. It has to be held at low temperatures (below 300 degrees Fahrenheit) to remain fresh.
Decoding CBD Oil
While hemp oil is the serious older brother, CBD is like the cool cousin with the happening lifestyle everyone’s jealous of. Extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the cannabis and hemp plants, this THC variant has many health benefits to its name.
According to scientists, CBD is the second most prevalent among approximately 100 cannabinoids found in hemp, with THC taking up the number one spot.
Why Do People Use It?
Given its many health benefits, we aren’t surprised why this plant compound finds itself in everything from drinks to skincare products. Is CBD making you feel high? Don’t worry; that’s just the side effects. While CBD oil has several uses, experiencing a whacky trip isn’t one of them.
Combating Mental Health Disorders
CBD oil is known to reduce the effects of anxiety, psychosis, and depression and can even combat post-traumatic stress disorder.
Pain Relief
Did you know that cannabis can offer pain relief? It’s probably the presence of CDB that allows it to do that. These little guys can even engage with neurotransmitters, promising helpful results. In fact, CBD might be able to treat chronic pain by tinkering with our endocannabinoid receptors and decreasing inflammation.
Reducing Inflammation
CBD can potentially combat inflammation, which means it might help fight arthritis. CBD oil can help with pain tooth pain as well, which is good news if you hate visiting the dentist.
Health Benefits Of CBD Oil
Some additional health benefits of CBD oil include reducing the symptoms of neurological conditions like epilepsy and autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis. There is also an endless list of CBD skincare items to ensure you always look your best.
Adverse Effects Of CBD Oil
With great benefits comes side effects, even for this seemingly useful plant compound. The side effects can vary from casual to extreme, so pay attention to your dose and ensure you don’t combine it with something incompatible.
Mixing CBD with alcohol causes drowsiness, so make sure you wait until the effects are gone. Some medications might not be compatible with the compound, which might mess with your metabolism. CBD in high doses can also give you dry mouth diarrhoea and dangerously boost your liver enzymes.
Final Thoughts
Is hemp oil the same as CBD oil? Absolutely not. They are both extracted from different parts and contain distinct properties and chemical compositions from one another.
While CBD oil is mainly used for medical applications, hemp seed oil has benefits in various aspects, including textiles and culinary applications.
So, the next time someone uses these terms interchangeably, we hope you’ll understand the massive difference between them.
FAQs
Can hemp oil get you high?
Hemp oil lacks THC, the compound responsible for intoxication, hence cannot induce a high.
Is CBD oil legal?
The legality of CBD oil varies globally; ensure to check local regulations before purchase or use.
Can CBD oil be used for pain relief?
Yes, CBD oil is known for its potential in managing pain, but individual results may vary.
Are there any age restrictions for hemp oil?
There are generally no age restrictions, but consulting a healthcare provider is advisable.
Can hemp oil or CBD oil be used during pregnancy?
It’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using either during pregnancy due to potential effects.
