CBD VS Hemp: Find Out Which Works Better

By  //  November 21, 2021

It seems like every store we step into nowadays is selling some sort of CBD product. You’ll see edibles, lotions, shampoo, teas, and even CBD for your pets. Consumers can’t get enough of CBD products right now. However, even with its growing popularity, many people can’t differentiate between CBD oil and hemp oil.

While this is in large part due to poor marketing and labeling tactics, it is important for people using these oils to understand the difference and when to use each product.

So, what is the difference between CBD and hemp? The fundamental differences between the two are found in the methods of processing during oil extraction.

During the extraction process for CBD oil, different parts of the cannabis plants are utilized including the leaves, flowers, and stalks. CBD requires activation through heat, which is a crucial part of processing. On the other hand, hemp is extracted solely through cannabis seeds.

In the case of hemp oil, cold processing is used. This is important because the absence of heat during the hemp extraction process will not activate any cannabinoid compounds. These cannabinoid compounds include not only CBD but also THC, CBN, and dozens more. 

 CBD 

CBD and hemp oils have different functions, so if you’ve been using these products interchangeably, it is worth noting which products work best given the situation. CBD works by interacting with your body’s endocannabinoid system by activating two of its core receptors which are responsible for regulating mood, body temperature, cognitive function, and muscle repair.

Some common reasons people reach for CBD oil is to relieve epileptic symptoms, alleviate stress and anxiety, prevent nausea, and to manage chronic pain. CBD is also a known anti-inflammatory, so people who suffer from conditions like IBS, arthritis or stomach ulcers will benefit from adding CBD oil into their routine.

There are a variety of ways to consume CBD depending on what you use it for. People who experience chronic pain or insomnia may opt for a longer-lasting product like cannabis gummies with CBD or someone with anxiety may need instant relief and opt for a vape pen.

Athletes will often use a topical CBD balm post-workout to help aid muscle recovery. 

Hemp

Compared to CBD, hemp oil is better known for its nutritional benefits. You can easily find hemp oil in the grocery store where the olive oils are kept. Hemp oil is said to have a variety of health benefits when included as a part of a complete diet.

Hemp oil is known to promote a healthy cardiovascular system due to the high levels of arginine which help reduce the risk of heart disease. It also contains large amounts of omega-6 and omega-3 fats as well as all nine essential amino acids (what your body uses to make protein).

In addition to using hemp as a nutritional supplement, hemp oil is also commonly found in beauty products for hair and skin. In skincare, it is a popular remedy for skin disorders such as acne or eczema. It is also popular in hair products to help lock in moisture and stimulate hair growth.

Another use of hemp oil is to relieve symptoms of PMS and menstrual pain. It can also be used by people who are looking for a safe way to suppress their appetite without using stimulants as hemp oil is known to cause a decrease in hunger. This can be helpful in situations where weight loss is medically necessary.

CBD vs Hemp

Is one really better than the other? Not necessarily, it just depends on what benefits you are looking to get out of the product.

So, we know if you are looking for a product to support you nutritionally then it’s safe to say you are better off with the hemp oil. And if you are looking for a product that will help ease your ailments, CBD is going to be the more potent option.

There is some overlap when it comes to CBD and hemp oil functions, for example, you will find that hemp oil is also recommended to ease anxiety and stress. However, the consensus is that CBD is going to be a more effective option due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system.

This also goes for easing stress levels and maintaining cognitive function. The reason ingesting hemp oil can have an effect on anxiety levels is due to the increase of omega-3s in the diet whereas CBD works on anxiety at the source.

At the end of the day, both hemp and CBD oils can have a safe and healthy place in your daily routine. As long as you know when to use each product, they can be used in conjunction to promote overall health and wellness.