These days, our minds are flooded with new and incredible wellness trends that can allow us to try and take a more holistic approach to medicine. Being healthy is no longer the goal for the over-achiever, it’s a basic necessity. It allows us to feel good, look good, and have a longer life. CBD oil, the trendiest, biggest industry to jump aboard the wellness train is a bit confusing to some. There’s hemp oil, CBD oil, full-spectrum, THC-free … the terms go on and on. We wanted to outline the difference for you so you know what you’re getting. Keep reading to learn more about the difference between CBD oil and hemp oil.
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CBD Oil
According to MindBodyGreen, CBD is a term signifying a component of the cannabis plant that comes with the much-talked-about anti-inflammatory benefits, and you’re seeing it on everything from skin-care products to high-vibe tinctures. It’s from the leaves, flowers, and stalks of the cannabis plant. “Cannabidiol—known as CBD—is one of over a hundred active compounds or cannabinoids found exclusively in the cannabis plant. CBD acts as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory, which reduces pain and inflammation. It’s been used for centuries to successfully provide pain relief to muscle aches, arthritis, joint pain, neuropathic conditions, headaches, and to aid skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, even sunburn, and bug bites when used topically.” Phew. When ingested, MBG notes that the anti-inflammatory powers remain, and it “provides relief from anxiety and promotes a calm sense of well-being,” she says.
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Hemp Oil
According to Fllyde, “hemp oil is extracted from hemp seeds. Typically, it is from hemp seed varieties that contain around 30% oil and no cannabinoids. Then, after some scientific chilling and squeezing, the hemp seed oil goes through extraction. Hemp oil is good for increasing stability. Shelf life in some applications such as cosmetics and food supplements.” The hemp seed oil contains a lot of omega-6, omega-3, and omega-9 polyunsaturated fatty acids. In fact, it’s the only edible oil that contains greater than 90% polyunsaturated essential fatty acids. The ratios found in hemp seed oils are the optimal ones.
Another benefit of the hemp seed oil is the high levels of vitamin E. On average, 100mL of hemp seed oil contains 100–150mg of vitamin E. It is way more than any other oil, and 10 times the recommended daily consumption for an adult. In case you didn’t know, this vitamin has antioxidant properties. The cosmetic industry can’t stop raving about the anti-aging properties of this natural nutrient common to cannabis and hemp. Furthermore, it’s pretty common for people to create their own CBD tinctures with hemp seed oil. But hemp seed oil alone does not contain CBD or any other cannabinoids.
The Difference Between CBD Oil and Hemp Oil
According to MindBodyGreen, “both are essentially wellness ingredients, you won’t exactly be harmed if you accidentally purchase or use one instead of the other; however, if you’re trying to reap the maximum benefits of CBD oil, hemp seed oil won’t deliver…which is a problem considering that these oils don’t come cheap.”
Many brands are attempting to sell hemp oil a the price point of CBD oil. It’s just not the same thing. They’re completely different compounds, come from different parts of the plant, and have different benefits. Now you know the difference between CBD oil and hemp oil. Be careful with what you’re buying! Experts recommend doing your research before purchasing any of these items and watching out for labels! Both will benefit you in some way.
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While you’re here, check out this article on CBD and why you should think twice before buying beauty products that contain it.