One of the most common questions we get asked is “what is the difference between CBD oil and Hemp oil?”. These two oils come from the same plant. But they have very different effects on the body.
We are going to explain the differences and similarities between hemp oil and CBD oil. Explore their uses and the legalities below.
Where does CBD Oil and Hemp Oil come from?
Both CBD Oil and Hemp Oil come from different parts of the cannabis plant.
Hemp Oil is commonly known as Hemp Seed Oil. And using a cold press method, it is extracted from the seeds of the cannabis plant’s head.
CBD is also known as Hemp Extract. It comes from the flowers and leaves of the cannabis plant. And it is extracted as a sticky paste, before it is diluted into an oil using different carrier oils.
What is CBD?
CBD stands for Cannabidial. It is 1 of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It is often also referred to as Hemp Extract.
You may be wondering if CBD contains THC. The answer is yes, but only trace amounts. People also often ask, “will CBD get me high?” CBD contains up to 0.03% THC. Which is very negligible. As a result, it will not get you high or show on a drug test.
CBD is extracted as a sticky paste and can be dried into powder form. It is fat soluble and is mixed with a carrier oil. This creates the product called CBD oil. And the most common carrier oils used are coconut oil or hemp seed oil.
What are the benefits of CBD oil?
Your body is filled with different receptors. Including 5-HT1A serotonin receptor that helps you sleep and TRPV1 receptors that control pain perception.
CBD enters your system and penetrates the membrane of the cells. It then binds to or activates these receptors. That in turn will do amazing things. Such as reduce pain, reduce inflammation or calm anxiety.
CBD is also being used around the world to reduce the symptoms of Parkinson’s and seizure disorders. A form of CBD called Charlotte's Web, is now FDA approved in the USA.
It is being used to treat a pediatric seizure disorder. And it has been proven to be more effective than pharmaceuticals that were previously used.
CBD oil has been used for centuries around the world in natural medicine. It is completely safe and non-addictive.
What do the different CBD Oil strengths mean?
CBD extract is combined with a carrier oil such as coconut oil. A bottle of 500mg CBD Oil contains 500mg of CBD extract per 30mls of carrier oil.
See below for the different CBD oil strengths:
- Lower potency CBD of 300mg: Can be used to treat headaches, mild pain and mild anxiety.
- Medium potency CBD Oil of 600mg: Can be used to treat mild to moderate pain. Including moderate anxiety and insomnia.
- High potency CBD Oil of 1000mg: Can be used to treat more severe pain. These include cancer treatment side effects and mild epilepsy.
- Ultra high potency of over 2000mg: Is used to treat severe issues such as Parkinson’s and more complex seizure disorders.
Is CBD oil legal in Australia?
Yes, CBD Oil has been legal in Australia since 2016. However, it is highly regulated. And suppliers face a lot of red tape when advertising it.
What is Hemp Oil?
As we mentioned, Hemp Oil is extracted from the seeds of the plant. Much like olive oil, canola oil or avocado oil. It is cold pressed to release the oil from the seeds which retains all the nutrients.
Furthermore, Hemp Seed Oil can be used as an everyday supplement. The easiest way to incorporate it into your diet is to use it in cooking. It can be used in the same way as olive oil. Use it to shallow fry, drizzle over food or in a salad dressing.
What are the benefits of Hemp Seed Oil?
Hemp oil does contain CBD in small amounts. This means you get the same benefits you get from CBD oil. Just on a smaller scale. Hemp seed oil also contains no THC and won't get you high.
It is one of the healthiest oils available and contains omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. These fatty acids are essential for the building block of every cell membrane in the body. The omega fatty acid profile is much higher in hemp seed oil compared to fish oil or flaxseed oil. Making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians.
Hemp oil also assists with gut health because of its anti-inflammatory benefits. It can also improve the health and appearance of your skin, hair and nails.
Is Hemp Oil legal in Australia?
Yes, Hemp Oil is legal in Australia and is easily available. There are no restrictions or regulations with Hemp Seed Oil.
What is better, Hemp Oil or CBD Oil?
While both oils are very similar in health benefits, they are each used for a different purpose.
The way we like to describe it is, Hemp Seed Oil is a food with health benefits. While CBD oil is a supplement with a higher concentration of these health benefits.
For example, you would eat an orange for simple daily vitamin C intake. But you would take a vitamin C supplement to get a higher dose to help with a common cold.
The same goes for Hemp Oil and CBD Oil. Daily use of Hemp Oil will give you great health benefits. Whereas daily use of CBD Oil can be used to treat different ailments.
How can I find out which oil is best for me?
AT Hemp offers a free advisory service and can give you more information about the differences and benefits of Hemp Seed Oil and CBD Oil. We can then advise the best path for you to take.
If you want to learn more about CBD Oil and Hemp Seed Oil, send us an enquiry here and we can provide you with all the information you need.
