Beginner’s 101

What’s the difference between Hemp oil and CBD oil?

As a CBD shopper knowing the difference between hemp oil and CBD oil can be hard to figure out. For example, hemp oil is CBD oil, but CBD oil is not always hemp oil. Confusing stuff right? When shopping for CBD getting to grips with the terminology can feel like a minefield at best, but once you get used to it you’ll be shopping with ease in no time.

Here we break down the differences between hemp oil vs CBD oil so you can know what to look out for. 

In this article you will learn:

• What is CBD oil?
• What is Hemp oil? 
• How to tell the difference 

The most important thing to know when choosing a product is that the term CBD oil and hemp oil can be used interchangeably. We’ll go into more detail about that later, but if you learn what you should be looking for, you’ll never be stuck when trying to decide which product is right for you. 

Difference between CBD and Hemp Oil

CBD Oil 

The acronym CBD stands for cannabidiol which is a plant compound found in the cannabis plant. 

Cannabis is rich in over 80 plant compounds called cannabinoids, which are thought to be beneficial for the way they interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system.

CBD oils are created by extracting the cannabinoid CBD from raw cannabis plant material. The hemp variety of cannabis is commonly used to create CBD oils, due to its low THC (0.2%) and high cannabidiol content. Extracted from the leaves, flowers, and stalks of the plant

This is often where the confusion lies, as the compound cannabidiol can also be extracted from high THC strains of cannabis – called marijuana. THC stands for Tetrahydrocannabinol the psychoactive plant compound in cannabis that causes the ‘high’ and is widely prohibited.

As a consumer, it’s important to know where your product has been derived from. THC is a controlled substance in the majority of places around the world and could land you in legal trouble.

How to tell if its CBD oil

Definition of CBD oil- An oil substance that contains the molecule CBD. Derived from the hemp plant or high THC strains of cannabis. Oils are often extracted from hemp because of its low THC content and doesn’t cause a high.

What is it made from 

• Hemp or cannabis extracts which contain components of the plant, other cannabinoids, plant waxes, flavonoids, and terpenes. 
• Isolate a crystalline powder also extracted from cannabis/hemp, where CBD is removed from all other cannabinoids and plant material. 

Check out some of our CBD products here.

Does Hemp oil contain CBD

Hemp plants contain high amounts of CBD and are commonly used to create oils. By extracting from the stalks, stems, and flowers.

This can be done via a variety of methods, including using solvent washes of alcohol to remove the cannabinoids or CO2 extraction that only uses air.

To throw in one more confusing factor. The term hemp oil, although less commonly, can also be used to describe hemp seed oil. (Another oil made with hemp but only derived from the seeds and contains no CBD).

While hemp seed oil is also technically hemp oil as it comes from the same plant, it doesn’t hold any of the same properties as hemp oil or CBD oil. 

Through cold press extraction hemp seeds are crushed and strained to create a light golden oil, with a mild nutty flavor. Frequently in cooking as a dietary supplement and is known for its high omega and vitamin content. 

How to tell if its Hemp oil

Definition of Hemp oil- An oil extracted from the hemp plant. Derived from the stems, leaves, or flowers and contains CBD.

What is it made from 

• Hemp extracts which contain components of the plant, other cannabinoids, plant waxes, flavonoids, and terpenes. 
• CBD Isolate a crystalline powder also extracted from hemp, where CBD is removed from all other cannabinoids and plant material. 

Check out some of our hemp oils and extracts here!

How to Tell the Difference? 

When searching for CBD oil or hemp oil, looking at the ingredients is key. CBD oil derived from hemp should say so in the ingredients list. As a savvy shopper, you should know where your CBD comes from. Hemp ensures it has a low level of THC. If you live in a state or country that has legalized cannabis may find oils that are derived from high THC strains. 

Either way, if you aren’t sure about where your oil comes from, you should always choose brands that clearly label where it is derived. Taking high THC CBD oil is illegal if you live in a place where cannabis is illegal.

On the other hand, if you are looking to get your CBD specifically from hemp, always read the ingredients to find out if it is, in fact, hemp-derived CBD oil and not hemp seed oil.

Hemp seed oil doesn’t contain CBD and is made only from the seeds if you find hemp oil that is especially cheap, always check the ingredients to make sure it hasn’t been mislabeled.