Hemp oil and CBD oil are both popular in natural wellness and skincare – but they’re not the same. In this guide, you’ll learn the benefits of each, their most effective uses, and how to choose the right oil for your needs.
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Marijuana, Hemp or Cannabis?
In botanical terms, marijuana, hemp, and cannabis all fall under the same species: Cannabis sativa. While they share the same genus, their applications and chemical profiles differ significantly.
The term “marijuana” became prominent in early 20th-century U.S. propaganda as a racist slur aimed at Mexican immigrants. It was used to stir anti-cannabis sentiment. Today, many people have reclaimed the word as an act of defiance against that stigma. I prefer the term “cannabis,” as it is rooted in Latin and Greek and doesn’t carry any stigma.
Cannabis refers to the entire plant species, which includes both hemp and marijuana. However, the varieties differ. Hemp oil, in particular, is widely used in cooking, skincare, and dietary supplements. It’s a staple in many wellness routines.
Cannabis vs Hemp
Cannabis plants contain both THC and CBD, though the ratio varies depending on the strain. THC is the psychoactive compound associated with feeling “high,” although that experience is more nuanced than many people think. For me, a good high brings calm, clarity, laughter, pain relief, and a sense of peace.
Through selective breeding, cannabis growers have developed strains with higher THC, higher CBD, or a balanced mix of both. Terpenes have also become a focus, adding another layer to the plant’s therapeutic profile. Check out my post on the 14 Top Terpenes in Cannabis and Essential Oils.
What is Hemp Oil?
Hemp, by legal definition, contains 0.3% THC or less, which means it has no psychoactive effect. It’s usually grown outdoors and valued for its strength, speed of growth, and versatility.
Hemp seed oil (often just called hemp oil) is cold-pressed from the seeds. It doesn’t have any cannabinoids like CBD or THC, but it’s packed with omega fatty acids, which are great for keeping your skin hydrated and your heart healthy. Hemp oil is used in food, skincare, and industrial products.
Some strains of hemp are bred for higher CBD content, but to extract CBD, manufacturers use the flowers and leaves, not the seeds. CO2 extraction is a common method for obtaining high-quality CBD extract.
Local laws vary, but hemp is generally legal to grow in many regions. However, regulations around CBD extraction can differ, so it’s important to know your source.
Local laws can be really different depending on where you are in the world. In a lot of places, it’s okay to grow hemp, and from the seeds of this plant, you get hemp oil. But technically, it’s better to call it hempseed oil. The seeds are usually cold-pressed to extract the oil, which contains no THC.
Hemp oil offers omega fatty acids that are beneficial for heart health and skin hydration.
In some places, it is not allowed to grow hemp to produce CBD oil. CBD is mainly taken from the leaves and flowers of the hemp plant, and one of the best ways to do this is through CO2 extraction. It’s a really efficient method for getting the hemp extract.
How Do I Know if I Am Buying Good CBD Oil?
CBD oil is more expensive than hemp oil due to the complex extraction and testing involved. Unfortunately, labelling can be confusing.
To ensure quality:
- Look for a COA (Certificate of Analysis) from an independent lab.
- Check the INCI label to see what’s been added.
- Choose cold-pressed hemp oil for maximum nutritional value.
Better still, make your own. I show you how in my blog: Olive Oil and Cannabis-Infused CBD for Skin and Hair Care.
Understanding these differences helps you choose the right oil for your health, beauty, and wellness needs.
Conclusion
Hemp seed oil and CBD oil are not the same. Hemp oil is pressed from seeds and contains no cannabinoids. It’s great for skincare and nutrition. CBD oil is extracted from the plant’s flowers and leaves and contains cannabidiol, a compound known for its therapeutic effects.
Both oils serve their unique purposes. Hemp oil nourishes the skin and supports general health, while CBD oil offers targeted benefits like pain relief and relaxation. Choosing the right one depends on your goals.
FAQ
What is the difference between hemp oil and CBD oil?
Hemp oil (or hemp seed oil) is made from the seeds and contains no cannabinoids. CBD oil comes from the flowers and leaves of the plant, and it’s packed with cannabidiol. This compound is known for its wellness benefits and is often used for therapeutic reasons.
Can you use hemp oil instead of CBD oil?
Not exactly. Hemp oil is great for skincare and nutrition, but it doesn’t offer the calming or pain-relieving effects of CBD. Each oil serves different purposes.
Is hemp oil or CBD oil better for skin?
Both are beneficial, but in different ways. Hemp oil is rich in omega fatty acids and moisturises the skin. CBD oil can help with inflammation, redness, and irritation due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Does CBD oil have THC in it?
Most CBD oils contain less than 0.3% THC (which makes it a legal product), or are completely THC-free, depending on the extraction method. Always check the label for THC content.
Is hemp oil legal in cosmetics?
Yes – hemp seed oil is legally used in skincare products worldwide. It contains no cannabinoids and is considered a nourishing cosmetic ingredient.
Can CBD oil make you feel high?
No – CBD is non-psychoactive. It does not cause a high like THC does. Most users report a calming or relaxing effect instead. This CBD Massage Candle is easy to make and is lovely to use at bedtime.
Which oil is best for pain relief?
CBD oil is the better choice for pain relief. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system and may help with chronic pain, inflammation, or soreness. This Soothing CBD Balm is effective and easy to make at home.
Can you use both hemp oil and CBD oil?
Yes, you can. They serve different purposes. Many people take CBD oil for therapeutic benefits and use hemp oil as a skincare treatment or dietary supplement.
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