What is the difference between CBD and oil made from hemp?
In order to pinpoint the differences between CBD and hemp oil, it's first worth understanding what CBD is and what kind of oil we're talking about. Despite the differences, there are quite a few similarities between the two. The sale of high CBD oils has long been legal in countries where medical marijuana has been legalized.
Cannabinoids: what they are and how they work
Cannabis contains special natural substances called cannabinoids. These organic compounds directly affect the human endocannabinoid system and largely determine the effects of using the plant. Some cannabinoids, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), have pronounced psychoactive effects. There are others, such as cannabinol (CBN), which is less well known but also affects the mind.
Cannabidiol (CBD), on the other hand, has no psychotropic effect. Because of this, oils and extracts containing CBD are not considered drugs and are legal in many countries, even where THC remains banned.
Interestingly, CBD can attenuate the effects of psychoactive cannabinoids, including THC. If CBD is present in a marijuana strain, its effects will be milder and more relaxing. While this is beyond the topic of comparing it to hemp oil, it is a point worth keeping in mind when discussing the properties of CBD products.
What are the different types of hemp oil
At first glance, the term “hemp oil” seems simple, but there are a variety of products behind it. The most obvious meaning is the oil obtained from cannabis seeds. These cannabis seeds are a true gift of nature, rich in beneficial substances: fatty acids, vitamins, micro- and macronutrients, and CBD. However, the CBD content in cold-pressed seed oil is quite low, so it is worth considering other forms of the product as well.
Culinary uses of hemp oil
Hemp oil is often referred to as another popular product - butter saturated with the active ingredients of cannabis. It is prepared by cooking ordinary butter with the leaves or cones of the plant. Such butter has a pronounced psychoactive effect and is widely used in the preparation of canna-eda - cookies, cakes and other treats with a “fun” effect.
Some confusion arises from language differences. In English, these products are labeled differently: hemp seed oil is hemp seed oil, and psychoactive butter is canna-butter. These terms help to understand more precisely what product we are talking about. And it is worth noting that canna-butter is a separate and rather broad topic.
Cannabis extracts and concentrates
The third type, which is often hidden under the name “hemp oil,” are concentrates made by extracting cannabinoids from the plant. These products contain a high concentration of active ingredients, including both CBD and THC.
There are different types of such extracts. Some contain predominantly THC and have a powerful psychoactive effect. Others contain both CBD and THC in varying ratios. THC levels in some concentrates can be as high as 50% or higher. Because of this, such products are regulated by law on par with traditional cannabis buds. In countries where THC is prohibited, possession or distribution of concentrates can result in serious legal liability.
Healing properties of CBD oil
An oil containing only cannabidiol (CBD) and no psychoactive components like THC is authorized for use in most countries. CBD is a compound with impressive therapeutic potential that is being actively studied by scientists and doctors around the world. Each year, more and more evidence of its medical value is accumulated.
When CBD oil is used
Cannabidiol-based medications find use in a variety of diseases and conditions, including:
- Alzheimer's disease;
- multiple sclerosis;
- epilepsy;
- depressive disorders of various origins;
- anxiety and panic attacks;
- other neurological and psychiatric pathologies.
CBD oil and other forms of cannabis extracts: what's the difference
CBD oil can be used as an additional remedy in complex therapy, and sometimes as the main treatment option. One of the most vivid examples is epilepsy. Cannabidiol is able to significantly reduce the frequency and strength of seizures. In the past, aggressive drugs with severe side effects were prescribed to patients to achieve a similar result. Now, quality CBD oil is enough to control symptoms without unnecessary strain on the body.
In addition, CBD has a pronounced analgesic effect, helps fight nausea, reduces inflammation and accelerates tissue regeneration after injuries, including fracture healing.
Bottom line: how to tell the difference between CBD oil and other hemp oils
The main difference is that not every cannabis-derived oil contains only cannabidiol. Some of them may contain THC or other compounds that make the product illegal in a number of countries. Only special concentrates enriched with CBD and purified from THC have a legal status and are at the same time a powerful means of maintaining health.
