Understanding the Differences Between Hemp Oil and Hemp Seed Oil
Hemp oil and hemp seed oil, while derived from the same plant, serve different purposes and have distinct benefits.
Hemp Oil (CBD Oil):
- Source: Extracted from the stalks, leaves, and flowers.
- Composition: Rich in cannabinoids, primarily CBD (cannabidiol).
- Benefits: Known for its therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory properties, pain relief, and anxiety reduction. It also has moisturizing and anti-aging properties for skin care.
- Uses: Commonly used in dietary supplements, wellness products, and skincare items.
Hemp Seed Oil:
- Source: Extracted from hemp seeds.
- Composition: Contains essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, but no CBD or other cannabinoids.
- Benefits: Supports cardiovascular health, boosts skin health and hydration, and provides nutritional benefits due to its rich fatty acid profile.
- Uses: Frequently used in cooking, as a dietary supplement, and in skincare products for its moisturizing properties.
So, What’s the Difference?
The major difference between these two oils is the presence of CBD. CBD, a chemical compound found naturally in the cannabis plant, is abundant in hemp oil but absent in hemp seed oil.
Hemp Oil (CBD Oil):
- Benefits: Hemp oil boasts numerous benefits due to its high CBD content. Our skin has cannabinoid receptors that interact with CBD, offering moisturizing and healing properties. Additionally, hemp oil contains essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fatty acids.
- Applications: It provides a range of benefits not only for the skin but also for overall wellbeing. Hemp oil is often found in supplements such as capsules, and with a little research, you can discover the many benefits of taking CBD daily.
Hemp Seed Oil:
- Benefits: While it does not contain CBD, hemp seed oil still offers many advantages. It is rich in essential fatty acids like omega-3s and omega-6s, which support a natural skin barrier, keeping the skin hydrated and youthful.
- Applications: This is why we include hemp seed oil as an ingredient in many of our products alongside hemp oil.
Legal Aspects
- Hemp Oil (CBD Oil): Legal if derived from industrial hemp containing less than 0.3% THC.
- Hemp Seed Oil: Generally legal as it contains no THC or CBD.
State-by-State Legal Status
This is not an extensive list of statuses and is changing regularly; please check with the current local laws for your state. This is not legal advice.
- Alabama: Conditionally legal; CBD oil exceeding 0.3% THC legal with a medical cannabis license for specific conditions.
- Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia, Washington: Fully legal.
- Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming: Conditionally legal with various restrictions based on THC content and medical use.
Nutritional and Health Benefits
- Hemp Oil: Its high CBD content makes it beneficial for managing stress, anxiety, chronic pain, and sleep disorders. It also has antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from damage.
- Hemp Seed Oil: Packed with nutrients, it is excellent for improving skin health, reducing inflammation, and providing a balanced ratio of fatty acids that support overall health.
How to Use Them
- Hemp Oil: Can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) for quick absorption, added to foods and beverages, or used topically on the skin.
- Hemp Seed Oil: Ideal for adding to salads, smoothies, and other dishes as a nutritional supplement. It can also be applied directly to the skin or added to lotions and balms.
Conclusion
Both hemp oil and hemp seed oil offer unique benefits and can be incorporated into your daily routine for health and wellness. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right product for your specific needs.
