You’ve probably seen both CBD and hemp seed oil at your local health store. Many confuse the two, because CBD is derived from hemp or cannabis. However, there is a big difference between hemp seed oil and CBD oil.
While both CBD and hemp oil offer a variety of health benefits, the two are not the same. So, before you click ‘add to cart’, make sure you know the difference.
Hemp seed oil 101
Hemp seed oil comes from the seeds of hemp and cannabis plants. It is pressed out of the seeds in a similar way that olives are pressed for olive oil.
While the cannabis plant is known for its recreational, psychoactive properties, hemp seed oil is completely free of these effects. This is because the seed of the plant contains no THC, the substance that causes a ‘high’, or CBD, the substance that is used to relieve pain and inflammation. These substances are found in the leaves and buds of the plant, not the seeds.
While hemp seed oil won’t provide pain and anxiety relief quite as effectively as CBD oil, it definitely boasts its own health benefits, which is why it’s such a hit in the natural health community.
Hemp seed oil is rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, which have the ability to improve the health of your heart, skin, joints, and eyes. Some research suggests it can even improve symptoms of depression.
In addition to Omega 3 fatty acids, hemp seed oil also contains Omega 6 fatty acids. These fatty acids are said to strengthen bones, reduce cholesterol, reduce nerve pain, ease mastalgia and other symptoms of PMS, and regulate the metabolism.
Also Read: 3 Pros and 3 Cons of Intermittent Fasting
CBD 101
While hemp seed oil comes from pressed hemp seeds, CBD comes mostly from the flower of the plant. CBD can also be found in the leaves and stems. In cannabis plants, the flower, leaves, and stem contain THC as well. Unlike THC, CBD cannot make you feel intoxicated.
CBD doesn’t just come in the form of oil. You also get CBD capsules, CBD edibles, CBD topical treatments, and smokable CBD. You’ll notice that CBD beverages and makeup are gaining popularity, too.
CBD oil (and all its forms) seem to have a range of health benefits, although it needs to be studied further. It’s been used to reduce the frequency of seizures in people with epilepsy, and it might even be able to help patients recover from drug addiction.
CBD may not have the intoxicating effects that THC does, but it definitely has an effect on the brain. For example, it seems to reduce anxiety, general stress, and possibly even depression.
The benefits go beyond the brain as well, with CBD reducing chemo-induced nausea, and easing cancer-related pain. While research on the other health benefits of CBD is still greatly lacking, CBD has been said to help ease insomnia, acne, and chronic pain. (Hemp seed oil won’t do that.)
As with any medication, each person’s experience with CBD is unique. What works for others may not work for you, so keep that in mind when trying CBD products.
Also read: 5 simple tips for using CBD topicals
Is CBD safe to use?
CBD is considered safe to use, and the side effects are minimal.
With that said, the CBD compound has been found to interact with certain drugs, particularly those with a grapefruit warning. It affects the enzyme your body needs to break down medication and can consequently speed up or slow down drug metabolism, affecting the efficiency of the medication.
Always talk to your doctor about the potential interactions between CBD and your medication.
Read our product review: Eve Farms Full Spectrum CBD Oil
Dosage
When it comes to CBD, it’s best to start with lower doses and increase slowly until you reach the desired effects. Always check the container of your CBD products to follow the dosage instructions. Generally you can break this up into two or three times a day, or take it all at once.
Hemp seed oil can easily be mixed into food through salad dressing, smoothies, or as cooking oil. Three tablespoons of hemp seed oil per day will make up the recommended daily allowance of dietary oil. Reduce this if you use other oils like olive oil or coconut oil in your diet.
Hemp Seed Oil Vs CBD Conclusion: So, which do I choose?
You don’t even have to choose! If you want to use hemp seed oil in your diet while taking CBD, feel free to do that and enjoy the benefits offered by both.
If it’s specifically CBD you want, remember that just because a product is made of hemp, doesn’t mean it contains CBD. Hemp seed oil doesn’t contain any CBD. If you’re after the benefits of CBD as opposed to the nutrients in hemp seed oil, look for a product that specifically states it contains CBD.
Sian Ferguson is a freelance writer based in Cape Town, South Africa and she has written for publications such as Healthline, Greatist, and Psych Central to name a few.
