While exploring CBD’s potential benefits, you may have wondered what the difference is between CBD and hemp oil. The terminology used on these kinds of products can also be confusing, such as full-spectrum hemp extract, CBD isolate, and hemp seed oil. 

While each product may vary, they fall into two main categories: CBD oil and hemp oil. And there’s a big difference between the two. Let’s break it down.

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD oil or cannabidiol oil is a product derived from the hemp (cannabis Sativa) plant for its medicinal benefits. It is extracted from the stems, leaves, flowers, and stalks of mature hemp plants. This process is done in a variety of ways, including the use of ethanol, carbon dioxide, or olive oil. It is typically used for the treatment of depression, anxiety, seizures, and pain. 

What Is Hemp Oil?

Hemp oil is a product extracted from hemp seeds of the cannabis Sativa plant. Sometimes labeled as “hemp seed oil” (which is a much more accurate label), the seeds are pressed, processed, and refined to create an oil rich in Vitamin E, omega fatty acids, and protein. Hemp oil is mostly used for cooking, but it also has topical applications.

CBD Oil Vs. Hemp Oil: Where the Confusion Lies

So, are CBD oil and hemp oil the same? No. They are both very different products with different applications that happen to derive from similar sources. We know it’s confusing, but it’s also essential to know the difference.

The confusion lies in the definition of hemp oil. Unfortunately, the term “hemp oil” is often used to describe both products. It’s a broad label that is technically correct either way, as both CBD oil and hemp seed oil come from the hemp plant.

For this reason, it’s crucial to get more information about a product before you make a purchase. For example, CBD oil can be derived from either the hemp or marijuana plant and is used for its medicinal purposes. Hemp seed oil, on the other hand, comes exclusively from hemp seeds, contains no psychoactive qualities whatsoever, and is used in cooking for its high nutritional value.

Benefits of Hemp Oil

Hemp seeds contain numerous vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that make them an excellent addition to many diets. They can be consumed on their own in smoothies and cereals, but the most effective way to consume them is to cold-press the seeds into oil.

Hemp seed oil is usually found in health food and grocery stores next to fish oils and flaxseed. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein, as well as omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. It can be used as a pan oil for frying and sautéing or in salad dressings and sauces.

Benefits of CBD Oil

CBD oil is extracted from other parts of the hemp plant beside the seeds. It is used for its medicinal properties and can come from either the hemp or marijuana plant. Although it can be used for cooking or cocktails, it is generally taken as a supplement orally.

CBD oil offers many benefits. It’s often taken to relieve anxiety and depression, both in humans and in dogs. It’s also effective against pain caused by inflammation and can help with sleep disorders. What’s more, it has shown promise in treating seizures, acne, and improves heart health. 

Similarities Between CBD Oil and Hemp Oil

• They’re both derived from the hemp (cannabis Sativa) plant.
• Neither has intoxicating effects (like marijuana).
• Both are oils.
• You can ingest or apply them topically.
• They both have health benefits. 

Differences Between CBD Oil and Hemp Oil

• Hemp seed oil comes from hemp seeds, while CBD oil is extracted from other parts of the plant.
• CBD oil can come from different cannabis plant varieties, including marijuana, while hemp oil comes exclusively from industrial hemp seeds.
• CBD oil often comes as a fully-spectrum product that contains a number of different beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes. Hemp oil, on the other hand, contains vitamins and minerals that have a lot of nutritional value.
• Hemp oil contains no THC (the psychoactive cannabinoid present in marijuana), while CBD oil can have up to 0.3% THC according to federal law. It should be noted that this level of THC is minuscule and does not have intoxicating effects.
• Hemp oil is a pure, nutrient-rich oil that does not contain cannabinoids like CBD oil.
• Hemp oil can be purchased at grocery stores and on Amazon, while CBD oil is a more specialized product that you should order from a reputable source. 

Types of CBD Oil

While there’s really only one type of hemp oil, there are various CBD products available. For starters, CBD can be derived from either the hemp or marijuana plant, although this makes little difference to the end result.

Overall, CBD oil is available in several different products. You can get a full-spectrum product, which means it’s derived from the whole plant and contains a variety of beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes, a distillate that is free of even trace amounts of THC (which is especially important for states where THC is entirely illegal), and a CBD isolate.

How to Ensure You’re Getting the Right Oil

The real problem (and the reason this article exists) is that CBD oil is currently unregulated. This lack of regulation means that unscrupulous marketers sometimes use the term “hemp oil” to try and sell you something that is not what you’re looking for. Shady manufacturers may use misleading labeling to confuse and claim unfounded benefits on their products.

With this in mind, it’s critical to carefully read the ingredients list on a product before you buy it to ensure you know what you’re getting. Hemp oil should always list “hemp seed oil” as its primary and active ingredient, while CBD oil should say “hemp” with a description of its active cannabinoids. When purchasing CBD oil, look for “full-spectrum CBD”, “cannabidiol”, and “phytocannabinoid-rich CBD”. 

Remember, don’t let the term “hemp oil” fool you. Shop specifically for CBD oil, not hemp seed oil.