The Difference Between Hemp Oil & CBD Oil

You’ve probably heard of CBD oil and hemp oil in your search for alternative wellness solutions. These terms sometimes get used interchangeably, although they have some important differences. They come from the same plant, they’re often made into similar products, and they both can be used by those looking for a balanced, healthier life. So what’s the difference between hemp oil and CBD oil? Let’s start with the basics.

What Is Hemp Oil?

Hemp oil is extracted from the seeds of hemp plants, which is why it’s also sometimes referred to as hemp seed oil. These seeds don’t contain any THC or CBD, so hemp oil is often 100% pure. On the other hand, hemp oil extracted from the leaves and flowers of the plant will have CBD in it and can still be labeled hemp oil. Make sure to check the label before you purchase so you know you’re getting the product you want.

Hemp Oil Benefits

Hemp oil is full of vitamins and nutrients. Its high levels of vitamins E and B in particular make it a popular ingredient in products like lotions, soaps, and shampoos. It’s also a source of protein with a nutty taste, which has led some people to substitute it for olive oil when they cook. Hemp seed oil’s hydrating properties and fatty acids are also selling points for consumers, especially in hemp oil for hair and skin. If you’re unsure of your state’s laws or don’t want to try CBD oil, 100% hemp oil is a way to still get some of those benefits.

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD oil is also typically extracted from hemp plants, except CBD is extracted from the leaves and flowers. You may see this referred to as hemp CBD oil to differentiate it from CBD extracted from marijuana plants. It doesn’t have a significant amount of THC in it (less than 0.3%). CBD reacts with your endocannabinoid system (ECS) to help the body run more smoothly, using chemicals the body already produces.

CBD Oil Benefits

The ECS is responsible for pain, emotions, appetites, inflammation, and more. CBD can impact the ECS and makes the natural processes more efficient, from dopamine to serotonin reception. The booming popularity of CBD oil makes sense when you hear the testimonies from consumers who have tried it and look into the research behind its benefits and uses.

Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil

The most basic difference between hemp oil and CBD oil is their source. Hemp oil never comes from marijuana plants, but CBD oil can. That said, most CBD oil products come from hemp plants for legal reasons. As mentioned earlier, hemp oil comes from the seeds of a hemp plant, while CBD oil is extracted from the leaves and flowers.

Cannabinoids & Terpenes

CBD is a cannabinoid that can be used to alleviate the symptoms of various conditions (though this has not been 100% proven). THC is another cannabinoid, which has different effects on the body. These are far from the only cannabinoids, and full spectrum CBD oil may contain over 100. Pure hemp oil does not contain either THC or CBD. Those looking for the beneficial properties of CBD and cannabinoids in general won’t find what they’re looking for in hemp oil.

Terpenes are oils naturally produced in many plants and can enhance the effects of CBD oil. They also cause that distinctive cannabis scent. Terpenes are a huge part of the “entourage effect,” a scientific theory proposing that CBD treatments using every part of what was naturally produced will be more effective for certain conditions.  Hemp oil still contains some terpenes! Myrcene, for example, is found in hemp seed oil as well as mangoes and guavas.

Different Uses for CBD & Hemp Oil

​Hemp oil’s abundance of vitamins and fatty acids make it popular in common products ranging from lotions to cooking oil. Hemp oil is a great option for those looking for something packed with nutrients that helps promote general wellness.

CBD oil on the other hand is used for the beneficial properties of CBD and the other cannabinoids contained within the oil. Though research is still in early stages, there are theories based on studies that CBD could help to reduce anxiety and inflammation, help promote better sleep, and more.

What to Know When Buying CBD Oil

Shopping for CBD products can be confusing. Here are some important things to understand to make sure you get the type of product you’re looking for:

• The most important thing to look at when evaluating CBD content is what ingredients they list and how many milligrams (mg) there are of that ingredient.
• Hemp oil does not naturally include CBD. If a product label only tells you how much “hemp oil” it contains, you have no way of knowing if it contains CBD or how much.
• If buying a CBD product is your goal, you want to look for milligrams of CBD or hemp extract. Labels using these terms indicate that the product was extracted from the leaves and flowers of the plant, not the seeds.

Both hemp and CBD oil can be very beneficial for living a more balanced, natural lifestyle. But it’s important to know how to differentiate them because companies are using vague and confusing language to market hemp oil products as CBD products.

At Frontier Jackson, we sell full spectrum CBD oil backed by a certificate of analysis so you know you’re getting a high quality CBD product. View our selection of CBD oil products today!