The Differences Among Hemp Oil and CBD Oil

[Jessica MartinParticipant @jessicamartin]

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The Differences Matter

The forefront of today’s discussions in regard to achieving optimal health in the most natural ways is heavily revolving around the terms hemp and CBD. Because of the teeming number of health-conscious consumers today are being drawn towards numerous organic and honest nutritional enterprises such as Nature’s Arc Organics, it’s important for us to understand the clear distinction between both of these oils. When consumers are able to make educated choices about the products they choose to purchase, their satisfaction levels are always certain to be much more greater.

But what exactly is hemp and CBD? Are they the same thing? Although both hemp and CBD originate from the same plant species, the way each oil is derived and the properties that they contain area vastly different.

Understanding The Fundamentals: What Are Cannabinoids, Terpenes, and Flavonoids?

Before getting into the differences of hemp oil vs. CBD oil, it becomes helpful to understand some of the terminologies that’s often used when discussing these types of oils. Being able to understand what these terms mean will further solidify the comprehension between hemp vs. CBD. It’s important to note that this list is not meant to be exhaustive, as there are many other types of compounds that are associated with hemp and CBD.

Cannabinoids. Arguably the most important group of naturally occurring chemical compounds found within the cannabis plant. As of today, there has been 113 individual cannabinoids discovered – the most well-known of these being THC with its runner up, CBD. Each cannabinoid has its own unique characteristic that triggers specific cannabinoid receptors that are found throughout our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).

Terpenes. These are chemicals found within the essential oils of the cannabis plant that produces the aromatic variations and the plant’s appearance of being covered in crystals, which are scientifically known as trichomes. Although terpenes are mainly regarded as scents, it’s important to know that the different scents that strains give off is a foreteller in regard to the various healing properties that are present.

Flavonoids. Known as cannaflavins, these flavonoids are responsible for many characteristics such as color pigmentation, taste, and smell. Yet, the characteristic that’s most appealing in terms of hemp and CBD oils is the antioxidants that flavonoids provide. In short, these flavonoids help detoxify the body while also providing benefits to our cardiovascular system.

Now that we’re familiar with some the basics, let’s head to what makes hemp oil and CBD oil so different.

The Characteristics of Hemp Oil

Two of the main differences between hemp oil and CBD oil is the parts of the plant used and extraction methods. Hemp oil is extracted from the seeds by the extraction process of cold pressing. Therefore, hemp oil is traditionally regarded as more of a nutritional substance than it is medicinal. Since only the seeds are used, hemp oil is naturally low in the cannabinoid CBD. As a consequence, CBD oils are more commonly used in products such as beauty care and cooking recipes. Potential nutritional benefits of hemp oil are but not limited to:

• Moisturizing and replenishing dry skin, hair, and nails
• Reducing cholesterol by speeding up metabolism rates
• Keeping hormones balanced due to the presence of gamma-linolenic acid
• Boosting the immune system because of its healthy balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

The Characteristics of CBD Oil

In contrast to the extraction methods that produce hemp oil, CBD oil is extracted from the leaves, flowers, and even the stalks of the cannabis plant. The ideal extraction method for CBD oil that avoids additional processing is by CO2 extraction.

As of now, there are two main types of CBD oils which are full-spectrum and isolate. Isolate CBD oils extracts all cannabinoids except CBD while full-spectrum oils maintain the integrity of the additional cannabinoids that produces an effect known as “The Entourage Effect”. In a nutshell, this effect describes how more effective results are achieved when cannabinoids are left as a harmonized synthesis. Nevertheless, both forms offer relief from medical conditions such as:

• Mental disorders such as anxiety and depression
• Inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases
• Seizures and muscle spasms
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Chronic pain

The medical conditions above are meant to be a non-exhaustive list as the range of benefits that CBD oil provides those with medical conditions is quite vast.

Knowing What’s Best For Your Specific Needs

Now that we have a complete understanding of the various benefits that these oils have to offer, it becomes a less complicated task when deciding exactly which product would best fit our needs. If the goal is to replace some beauty care products or cooking oils for a more sustainable and health-conscious choice, consider opting for hemp oil. If plagued by medical ailments, CBD oils will provide optimal results. However, if both oils are offering the desired benefits that appeals to specific needs, then avoid deciding between one or the other and opt for enjoying all the life revitalizing benefits that both oils have to offer. Despite the choice that is made, each decision will inevitably result in becoming a healthier, more energized version of the person staring in the mirror.

• This topic was modified 3 years, 11 months ago by  Jessica Martin.

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