Which do you choose? As the CBD industry blossoms and blooms, and as consumers begin to realise the very real benefits of taking both hemp and CBD oils as food supplements, it’s important to note that there are some significant differences between the two products. Similar in essence and origin, CBD oil and hemp oil are both derived from the hemp plant. Related to the cannabis plant that is rich in THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is responsible for the psychoactive effects cannabis users experience, throughout time hemp has been cultivated on an industrial level for a plethora or purposes and importantly contains little to no THC.
Companies and customers alike, seem to be erring on the side of the confusion when it comes to hemp and CBD oil, which in turn may be leading some mistaken consumers to be purchasing the wrong products, subsequently not realising the full benefits of either product. What is the difference between hemp oil and CBD oil and which should you choose?
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is extracted from the leaves, stalks, and flowers of the hemp plant, rather than the seeds, which is how hemp oil is produced.
CBD is short for cannabidiol, which is one of many naturally occurring cannabinoids found within Hemp and Cannabis plants. Other cannabinoids that you may have heard of include the psychoactive THC, commonly found in trichrome rich cannabis flowers as opposed to the industrial Hemp used for the production of CBD oil. Only recently, cannabinoids have been found to act upon and aid our very own endocannabinoid system. This system is thought to play a significant role in our homeostasis and regulate bodily functions such as sleep, mood, hunger and immune systems.
CBD oil is a food supplement that can be taken under the tongue or by vaping as an intended CBD e-liquid. Additionally, CBD oil-based products include gummy bears, lollipops, and other confectionery items.
What is Hemp Oil?
Hemp oil is an altogether completely different product compared to CBD oil. Hemp oil is derived and extracted from the hemp seeds produced by the hemp plant. The Hemp used by companies is grown on an industrial scale and contains minimal traces of THC. This type of oil can be extracted from all plants in the cannabis family, which is why you may often hear the use of further terminology in conversation. Where the use of cannabis is legal in states such as Colorado and California, companies and consumers are extracting oils from cannabis plants that do contain THC. These oils tend to be referred to as ‘cannabis oil’ and ‘marijuana oil’ and are illegal in the UK.
oil contains zinc, iron, and magnesium, as well as potassium, phosphorus, and calcium. But it doesn’t stop there, hemp oil is unique in that it provides all the essential amino and fatty acids that our bodies need including Omega 3.
Why Use Hemp Oil?
Packed with essential nutrients for your body, use hemp oil as a food supplement, and as an alternative to olive oil when dressing salads. Healthy and delicious, hemp oil has a nutty flavour to taste and will make a great addition to the flavour profiles of your intended dish. Similarly to olive oil, hemp oil has a low smoke point, which means it’ll smoke easily upon cooking, which you should ultimately try to avoid.
Hemp oil is a great natural moisturiser for your skin and will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth. Additionally, hemp oil is used within a variety of soaps and lotions.
Hemp oil is used industrially in the production of eco-friendly paints that are an alternative to the commonly found petroleum-based paints you may come across.
The Big Difference
While CBD oil and hemp oil may come from the same plant, it’s important to understand that there is a big difference between the two, which will shape your decision in using either product depending on the intended purpose.
CBD Oil is extracted from the plants, flowers, and stalks of the hemp plant and can contain up to 15% CBD.
Hemp oil is extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant which has some outstanding nutritional qualities, though importantly contains low traces of CBD.
Here, at VSAVI, it’s important to us that you are using the right CBD based products. If you need help, have questions or queries contact us today.