What’s The Difference Between CBD and Hemp Oil?

There are more than 500 compounds in cannabis plants. CBD, as we’ve mentioned, is a cannabinoid, and is the second-most prevalent compound, behind THC. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol short for THC – is the psychoactive compound, praised by recreational marijuana users. 
 
However, it might be confusing to understand CBD and hemp oil since both hemp and marijuana belong to the same species. To clear the air, it’s important to note that legally hemp is defined as any cannabis plant that contains 0.3 percent or less THC. 
 
As you’ve now become a little familiar with some relevant terms, we can discuss what’s the difference between CBD and hemp oil.

What is CBD Oil?

CBD oil is derived from the hemp plant. It is acquired from hemp stalks, leaves, and flowers. 
 
This oil contains concentrated cannabidiol extract which is certainly not psychoactive like THC. However, depending on the type of CBD, some CBD oil products may contain the psychoactive compound THC. 
 
For instance, if the oil you purchased is a full-spectrum CBD type, it may contain up to 0.3% THC, which is legal. However, this small amount won’t cause any trouble. Instead, it will maximize the therapeutic benefits by giving entourage effects. 
 
In case you don’t want THC, you can use broad-spectrum CBD that contains all the terpenes, cannabinoids, and flavonoids except THC. If you would like to get the purest form of CBD, go for CBD Isolate oil. 
 
Each of these CBD oil types is known for their potential health benefits.  
 
According to research CBD oil gained popularity for reducing pain, inflammation, and anxiety. However, CBD products including oil are not regulated by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration). So, it’s always advisable to check product labels and third-party lab testing to make sure of accurate cannabinoid labeling.

What Is Hemp Oil?

Hemp oil typically refers to two different products: hemp oil and CBD oil. Both hemp oil (AKA hemp seed oil) and CBD oil come from cannabis plants. 
 
However, hemp seed oil, or hemp oil whatever you want to call it, comes from the seeds of the cannabis sativa plants and is made by cold pressing the hemp seeds. It’s rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamin B, and vitamin D. 
 
Hemp oil is commonly used in cosmetics, supplements, and food products. 
 
However, are CBD oil and hemp oil the same? Not really. But It’s complicated. 
 
CBD oil as well sometimes referred to as hemp oil. But they are not the same. As we’ve mentioned, CBD oil is made by extracting from stalks, leaves, and flowers and contains a higher concentration of cannabidiol. 
 
However, regardless of the reasons for the confusion, we strongly recommend verifying the ingredients of the CBD oil products you’re purchasing. Hemp oil is generally labeled as cannabis sativa oil or just hemp seed oil, and CBD oil is typically categorized as cannabidiol oil. 

CBD Oil Vs. Hemp Oil: What’s The Difference?

Both CBD oil and hemp oil share many similarities, but they are not the same. There are some key attributes of these oil products that make them different from each other. 
 
So, what’s the difference between CBD and hemp oil? We’ll answer this question based on the following factors: 

• Source and Composition 
• Cannabinoid Content 
• Extraction Process 
• Health Benefits  
• Legal Considerations 
• Use in Products 

Read More: CBD Cream Vs Hemp Cream

Source and Composition

CBD oil is made by extracting hemp plants’ leaves, stalks, and flowers. It contains a high amount of CBD along with other beneficial cannabis compounds such as cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. It may contain THC to a small extent; however, this is not meant to cause you “high”. 
 
On the other hand, hemp oil is sourced from hemp seeds. Since hemp oil and CBD oil, both terms are often used interchangeably, it’s important to know their source and ingredients before purchasing them. Hemp oil contains high amounts of omega fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. 

Cannabinoid Content

As the name suggests CBD oil is prized for its high CBD content. This compound interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the body which offers therapeutic benefits such as pain relief, reduced inflammation, and anxiety management. 
 
Hemp oil, on the other hand, contains little to no CBD or THC. Its nutritional profile consists of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, contributing to its popularity in the food and cosmetic industries. Unlike CBD oil, it lacks the potential therapeutic effects associated with cannabinoids. 

Extraction Process

The extraction process of both CBD oil and hemp oil is different. CBD oil is extracted using various methods including CO2 extraction or solvent-based techniques to pull cannabinoids from the material. The goal is to isolate CBD and other beneficial compounds while minimizing THC levels. 
 
Hemp seed oil or hemp oil is cold pressed from the seeds, a process that preserves its nutritional content. However, this method actually avoids extracting cannabinoids from the cannabis plants. This ensures the final product is THC-free. 

Health Benefits

According to research published in PubMed, cannabinoids are safe and modestly effective in neuropathic pain. Besides, the cannabinoids present in CBD oil are also used and admired for reducing inflammation as well. It is believed that CBD has analgesic and anxiolytic properties which contribute to these health benefits. 
 
Hemp seed oil or hemp oil is mostly renowned for its nutritional value. It has essential fatty acids which are beneficial for heart health. However, it is worth noting that hemp oil lacks the therapeutic effects associated with CBD. 

Legal Considerations

CBD is considered either fully or conditionally legal in all 50 states of the USA. Read CBD laws by state to learn the legal status of CBD in your state. However, worldwide, the legal status of CBD oil varies. In many places, it is legal as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. Consumers should always check the local laws before purchasing any product associated with CBD and cannabis. 
 
However, If you’re planning to purchase hemp seed oil or hemp oil, there is good news for you! Since hemp oil does not have THC or CBD in it, it’s generally considered legal worldwide. 

Use in Products

CBD oil is used in a variety of products including CBD syrups, CBD capsules, CBD gummies, and other topicals and edibles. So, if you do not intend to consume raw CBD oil or tinctures, the diverse consumption method of CBD oil is always right there for you. 
 
However, hemp oil is mostly used as dietary supplements and skincare products. You’ll also find it in industrial applications like paints, and lubricants. 
 
Read More: CBD Flower Vs THC Flower  

CBD Oil Vs. Hemp Oil: Comparison Table

The following table will give you a quick overview of the differences between CBD and hemp oil. 

Feature	CBD Oil	Hemp Oil
Source	Derived from cannabis plants’ leaves, stalks, stems, and flowers (CBD-rich strains).	Extracted from the seeds of hemp plants.
Cannabinoid Content	High CBD content, minimal THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol).	Negligible CBD, no significant THC, rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Purpose	Often used for its potential therapeutic properties.	Preliminary used as a culinary ingredient and for skincare.
Extraction Method	Typically extracted through ethanol extraction or supercritical CO2 extraction.	Extracted from hemp seeds using cold-press methods.
Terpenes	May contain terpenes for an entourage effect.	Generally, it lacks significant terpene content.
Legal Status	Conditionally or fully legal in all 50 states in the USA.	Widely legal since it contains no THC.
Nutritional Value	Contains phytocannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and various nutrients.	Rich in omega fatty acids but lacks cannabinoids.
Usage in Wellness	It offers many potential therapeutic benefits including stress and pain relief, and relaxation.	Commonly used for its nutritional value and moisturizing properties.

Of note, it’s strongly advisable to check local regulations and product labels for accurate information on CBD and hemp oil products. 

Is Hemp Oil Better Than CBD Oil?

Both CBD and hemp oil are different in terms of effects, health benefits, and purpose. Though hemp oil has more nutritional value than CBD oil, they serve different purposes. 
 
CBD is mainly formulated by reputed manufacturers to reduce stress, pain, and anxiety-related symptoms. Most of its users feel calm and relaxed after consuming CBD oil. 
 
If you want to get the therapeutic effects of CBD oil quickly, you should ingest it through the sublingual or under-the-tongue method. Since it directly enters your bloodstream, it can have faster onset effects. 
 
On the other hand, hemp oil (AKA hemp seeds oil) contains a high amount of nutrients like omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. As it lacks CBD and THC, it won’t give you therapeutic benefits. Still, you’ll receive various health benefits including improved skin (skin hydration), better heart health, and reduced inflammation. Also, hemp seed oil can be used in cooking. 
 
So it is a matter of personal preference. Both hemp and CBD oil are beneficial in their own way. You should select one over another based on your expectations and health needs. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some relevant questions and answers related to CBD and hemp oil. 

Does CBD Oil or Hemp Oil Cause You High?

Ans: No, neither CBD oil nor hemp oil will induce “high” effects. Only full-spectrum CBD oil may contain a trace amount of THC compound. This tiny amount of THC isn’t enough to cause someone “high”. 

How Does CBD Oil Differ from Hemp Oil?

Ans: CBD and hemp oil differ in many aspects. For instance, cannabidiol oil is extracted from CBD-rich cannabis plants, while helping seed oil CBD oil may contain cannabinoids, including THC, while hemp oil is THC-free. 

How Do I use CBD oil?

Ans: You can consume CBD oil orally. sublingually. Besides, you can apply BD oil topically. Just place a few drops of CBD oil under your tongue and wait at least 30 to 60 seconds before you swallow it. That’s all! If CBD oil is taken sublingually, you’ll feel the effects of CBD within 15 to 30 minutes.  

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, you’re now aware of the differences between CBD and hemp oil. Because the CBD market is new, you should learn as much as you can about CBD, hemp, and cannabis plants. Before purchasing any CBD products including CBD oil or hemp oil, inspect what it is made of. You can check the certificate of analysis which shows exactly what is in your product at the time it was bottled. 
 
Sources:

Darkovska-Serafimovska, M., Serafimovska, T., Arsova‐Sarafinovska, Z., Stefanoski, S., Keskovski, Z., & Balkanov, T. (2018). Pharmacotherapeutic considerations for use of cannabinoids to relieve pain in patients with malignant diseases. Journal of Pain Research, Volume 11, 837–842. https://doi.org/10.2147/jpr.s160556