CBD Oil vs. Hemp Oil: What’s the Difference Between the Two?
In recent years, CBD oil and hemp oil have both seen a massive surge in usage and popularity. However, any time you’re talking about the hemp plant, there’s bound to be a little confusion.
Specifically, there are usually questions around the CBD oil vs hemp oil debate. What defines each one and distinguishes it from the other? Today, we’re answering all of your questions so you can choose with confidence.
Understanding the Cannabis Plant
When we talk about cannabis, it’s important to specify which variety we mean. Hemp is another name for the Cannabis sativa plant, while marijuana is another name for the Cannabis indica plant.
While both are similar, they have marked differences to note. Most important is the percentage of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, found in each variety. This is the psychoactive compound that delivers that trademark “high” feeling you get when you smoke weed.
While marijuana plants can contain up to 30% of THC, hemp plants contain only trace amounts. Both hemp and marijuana contain other compounds (called cannabinoids), including THC and cannabidiol, or CBD.
What Is CBD Oil?
Manufacturers can create CBD oil by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant. It’s found in its leaves, stalk, and flowers. While CBD is technically psychoactive, it does not produce the same high that you’d feel with THC.
Instead, CBD is used to create a general feeling of calm and wellness. It interacts with your mood-regulating endocannabinoid system to help soothe and relieve a variety of health conditions, from anxiety to PTSD. There are many different ways to consume CBD oil and it’s available in a few different forms including:
- Tinctures
- Capsules
- Edibles
- Gummies
- Lotions, balms, creams
Before buying, it’s always smart to do your research. You can learn more about the benefits and side effects of CBD products online!
What Is Hemp Oil?
Hemp oil is not made from a particular compound of the cannabis plant. Rather, manufacturers create it by cold-pressing the seeds of the hemp plant.
The result is a culinary oil that’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These have been known to help improve brain health and function, and they also deliver a boost to your respiratory and circulatory systems.
For this reason, people often use hemp oil in the kitchen. It delivers a subtle, nutty flavor, along with a health kick. The oil usually contains less saturated fat than olive oil, and no trans fat.
In addition to cooking with hemp oil, you can also put a few drops under your tongue or use it topically for pain relief. This takes advantage of the oil’s anti-inflammatory properties.
CBD Oil vs Hemp Oil: Which Should You Buy?
When it comes to CBD oil vs hemp oil, it’s best to think about how you intend to use the product.
If you’re looking for an oil that can help soothe away stress, then CBD oil is preferable. On the other hand, both oils are ideal when you need relief from joint pain. Take your time, research your options, and ask as many questions as you need to make an informed decision.
In the meantime, don’t forget to check back here for all the latest news and updates on everything from beauty to tech!
