About CBD and Hemp Oils
Researchers and health care professionals have studied hemp and cannabis for decades and found that they’re versatile plants with health benefits. A recent federal agricultural bill eased restrictions on hemp cultivation, which has led to the explosion in hemp and CBD product production over the last few years.
CBD and hemp products are available virtually everywhere. Convenience stores, legal dispensaries, and online retailers all offer an array of products containing CBD. Individuals without access to medicinal marijuana and those uninterested in the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) have turned to CBD and hemp.
Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, CBD and hemp oils differ greatly. Educating yourself on the composition of each product will empower you to navigate this constantly evolving marketplace.
Today, CBD and hemp products fall into a regulatory gray area. Knowing the benefits of each type of product and being discerning about where you acquire CBD or hemp oil is critical.
Whether you should seek out CBD or hemp oil will depend on whether you hope to manage symptoms from a medical condition, fortify your health, or reduce stress.
What is CBD?
There are more than 80 chemicals known as cannabinoids in the cannabis sativa plant, and THC is the most well-known. It’s the chemical responsible for the “high” that comes with recreational marijuana.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is also a cannabinoid, but it occurs most abundantly in hemp plants, a type of cannabis plant. The CBD available on the market is extracted from hemp, synthesized into an oil, and then sold for consumption or infused into a variety of consumables.
Benefits of CBD
Although the substance has only recently been popularized, clinicians’ research on CBD is robust thanks to many animal studies. The FDA even approved one CBD product as a treatment for epilepsy. There is already ample research and anecdotal evidence purporting that CBD oil offers many benefits.
CBD effectively reduces chronic pain by disrupting the reception of pain signals. Users’ pain tolerance and overall ability to function improves thanks to the substance. CBD also helps many patients whose pain resists traditional treatment methods such as opioids.
Many individuals use CBD to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression because CBD blocks receptors in the brain from accepting stress signals.
Additionally, CBD isolates, gummies, creams, tinctures, and terpenes can help with the side effects of cancer treatment by easing pain, nausea, loss of appetite, sleep disturbance, and digestive issues. It can even help patients improve their overall nutrition and functional ability.
Finally, the effects of CBD include anti-inflammatory properties that can help with everything from acne to cardiac and neurological health. Some of the conditions that full-spectrum CBD products can help treat include Dravet Syndrome, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s Disease and Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome.
What is Hemp Oil?
Hemp seed oil is made from the seeds of the cannabis sativa plant. Manufacturers crush the seeds and then derive an oil that is safe for human consumption since it does not contain CBD or THC.
Hemp seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals essential to healthy human function. The oil contains high levels of Vitamin C, calcium, iron, Omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and several B vitamins.
Hemp oil and other hemp extracts offer many nutritional benefits. The presence of polyunsaturated or “good” fats makes it an excellent alternative to vegetable oil and other cooking oils.
Benefits of Hemp Oil
Hemp oil supports heart health because it’s rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. These naturally occurring fats strengthen cardiac muscle and enhance circulation. Additionally, fatty acids provide a boost to the immune system.
The multitude of vitamins and minerals in hemp-derived products also nourish the skin. Topically applying hemp oil may help manage acne and mild skin irritation. Consuming hemp oil can also help combat eczema symptoms because of the oil’s vitamin-rich profile.
The fatty acids in hemp oil are also effective anti-inflammatories. Unaddressed chronic inflammation is partially responsible for the development of cancer, heart disease, digestive problems, and diabetes.
CBD vs. Hemp Oil
Similarities
CBD and hemp oil are both derived from plants in the cannabis family. Neither oil occurs naturally–both are created by processing part of the plant. Each oil is safe for consumption and topical application.
Both oils have valuable anti-inflammatory effects on the body. With the exception of one specific CBD product, neither oil product is recognized as a health treatment by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or any state governments. However, despite their legal status, there is still a scientific consensus that both oils are safe and medically useful.
Differences
CBD binds with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) because it is a cannabinoid. As a result, it affects the nervous system. Symptoms from stress, anxiety, and depression can respond to CBD. The potency of CBD may vary depending on the process used to synthesize the product.
Hemp oil does not interact with the nervous system–its main benefit is its nutritional value. Also, the chemical profile of hemp oil is generally consistent regardless of how it was manufactured.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are CBD and hemp oil good for?
CBD and hemp oil are good for managing underlying health and supporting the body. Their anti-inflammatory properties combat cell degeneration due to irritation. Both support healthy skin whether they are consumed or used topically.
Both products are valuable alternatives for individuals seeking a non-narcotic and non-pharmaceutical way to improve their health and wellness.
Which is better: hemp oil or CBD oil?
Each oil’s value depends on its user. Hemp oil is better for individuals looking to supplement their nutrition. It is a good source of valuable nutrients that the body needs to function. Individuals looking to boost their immune systems are best served by consuming hemp oil.
CBD is preferable for patients looking for the benefits of THC who do not want a “high” or who cannot legally access marijuana. Consuming CBD oil can help manage the symptoms of an array of conditions. CBD also affects mood by reducing stress and anxiety for many users.
Will CBD get you high?
CBD cannot get you high. The psychoactive component of marijuana that creates a high is THC. It belongs to the same family of cannabinoids as CBD but is not found in hemp, the source of most CBD.
How does CBD work?
The ECS runs through the human body in conjunction with the nervous system. It’s a messaging network that regulates many bodily functions, including pain signaling, digestion, immune responses, and sleep.
CBD binds to receptors through the ECS to alter or disrupt our responses. This allows CBD to do things like reduce pain and improve appetite.
Conclusion
CBD and hemp oil are distinct products. While they share many of the same attributes of all products derived from cannabis, they differ greatly in how they interact with our bodies.
CBD engages the nervous system to influence how messages are delivered. It offers an array of benefits for people looking for symptom control, pain relief, and relaxation. Hemp oil is an antioxidant-rich nutritional powerhouse that supports patients’ overall well-being.
The use of CBD and hemp oil is almost always safe and effective. Still, patients should read product labels closely to ensure they select products that will meet their needs.