There are countless ways to relax after a hectic day—whether it’s soaking in a bath, sipping wine, practicing yoga, or indulging in a game of Candy Crush. But what about CBD and hemp oil? These products are frequently discussed, yet their roles in our lives can be unclear. While both originate from the same plant, the methods of production and their intended uses are quite different. One serves as a significant player in sustainable nutrition and industry, while the other is prominent in plant-based medicine.
So, what sets them apart? And how might each one benefit you? Let’s take a closer look at CBD oil and hemp oil.
Both CBD Oil and Hemp Oil Come From the Cannabis Plant
To grasp the similarities between CBD and hemp oil, we first need to clarify some terms. “Cannabis” refers to anything associated with the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids are the naturally occurring chemicals found within cannabis. The cannabinoid THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the compound in cannabis that produces a high, reminiscent of a late-night movie session. Hemp is a variety of cannabis that contains less than 0.3 percent THC, while marijuana has more than 0.3 percent THC.
CBD (Cannabidiol) is the second most prevalent cannabinoid in cannabis. Unlike THC, it won’t produce a high, but it does offer numerous health benefits. CBD can be sourced from both hemp and marijuana plants, with hemp being federally legal in the U.S. due to its minimal THC content.
Hemp: Versatile and Nutritious
Hemp is a valuable resource used to create a wide range of products, including rope, textiles, clothing, paper, and biofuels. Interestingly, hemp paper is even stronger than traditional wood-based paper. In fact, Henry Ford engineered a plastic car in 1941 powered by hemp and other plant-based fuels. Imagine a future where your wardrobe, home, and vehicle are all made from hemp!
The global industrial hemp market is projected to expand by 34 percent by 2025, with a substantial portion attributed to hemp seed oil. Hemp seeds, which come from the cannabis plant, contain no cannabinoids like THC or CBD. Known as a “superfood,” they are packed with protein, fiber, and essential Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These seeds provide all nine essential amino acids necessary for human health and aid in muscle building and repair. You can consume them raw or blend them into beverages like hemp milk.
Hemp oil is produced by cold-pressing these seeds, and it’s commonly used in cooking and baking. Additionally, it can be found in various beauty products, shampoos, soaps, and body lotions, and even works well as massage oil. However, it’s essential to note that hemp oil does not have scientifically proven medicinal benefits for pain or anxiety relief.
CBD: A Source of Medicinal Relief
According to a 2019 Gallup survey, approximately one in seven Americans uses some form of CBD, primarily for therapeutic reasons. CBD is extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of cannabis plants that are rich in cannabinoids, unlike the seeds.
There are three primary forms of CBD oil:
- Full-Spectrum: Contains up to 0.3 percent THC, offering maximum medicinal potency and the full benefits of the cannabis plant.
- Broad-Spectrum: Processed to eliminate THC while retaining all other cannabinoids, flavors, and aromas.
- CBD-Isolate: A pure form of CBD that is colorless, odorless, and contains no THC.
CBD can be consumed in various ways—smoked, ingested, infused into drinks, or applied as a topical treatment. Common carrier oils for CBD tinctures include hemp seed oil, MCT oil, olive oil, avocado oil, and coconut oil.
Extensive clinical studies support the use of CBD oil for alleviating pain and anxiety. Research indicates it can lessen inflammation, reduce anxiety, alleviate symptoms of depression, decrease seizure occurrences, aid digestion, and address symptoms associated with Parkinson’s Disease, among other benefits. While it doesn’t induce a “high” in the traditional sense, many users report feeling relief from anxiety and depressive symptoms, which some might describe as “mind-altering.”
CBD is also available for pets; owners often give CBD treats or oil drops to their aging, anxious, or injured pets to help with issues like separation anxiety or joint pain.
Choosing between CBD and hemp oil depends on your body’s needs. CBD is effective for treating skin conditions like psoriasis and acne, as well as minimizing pain, while hemp seed oil is less effective as it lacks CBD.
Tips for Purchasing CBD and Hemp Oil
When buying CBD oil or hemp oil, consider these tips:
- Avoid purchasing CBD oil on Amazon, as it prohibits such listings. Instead, choose reputable suppliers.
- Always look for third-party lab testing. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is typically available on the manufacturer’s website.
- Be cautious, as some CBD products are labeled as “hemp oil” to navigate regulations. If it contains CBD, “cannabinoids” will appear on the ingredient label.
- The nutritional quality of hemp seed oil depends on the manufacturing method and hemp variety. Opt for oils produced using modern steel presses to ensure maximum nutritional benefits.
Medications to Avoid with CBD
A general rule is to avoid mixing CBD oil with certain medications. If you’re using CBD, steer clear of the following:
- Amiodarone (heart medication)
- Warfarin (blood thinner)
- Levothyroxine (thyroid medication)
- Clobazam, lamotrigine, and valproate (seizure medications)
- Steroids and corticosteroids
- Calcium channel blockers
- Anti-epileptic drugs
Additionally, avoid combining CBD with drugs that induce sleepiness, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, and certain antidepressants. Alcohol can amplify CBD’s effects, leading to increased drowsiness.
People who share an interest in cannabis often bond over their experiences. Whether you enjoy cooking with hemp oil or relaxing with CBD, it’s a shared journey of discovery.
If you’re curious about the intersection of CBD and sexual health, you can read more about how CBD oil may enhance sexual experiences by reducing anxiety and increasing blood flow, which can aid in arousal.
For further insights on home insemination, check out one of our other blog posts here. For authoritative information on this topic, you can also visit this site. For those interested in pregnancy resources, this guide is an excellent resource.
Popular Search Queries:
- What is CBD oil used for?
- Difference between CBD oil and hemp oil
- Health benefits of hemp oil
- How to use CBD oil
- Hemp oil recipes
In summary, while both CBD oil and hemp oil share a common origin, their uses and benefits significantly differ. CBD oil is primarily valued for its medicinal properties, while hemp oil is celebrated for its nutritional value and industrial applications. When choosing between the two, consider your personal health needs and preferences to find what works best for you.