Some people wonder why the price of CBD oil and Hemp Seed oil can be so different when, at first glance, they seem like the same thing! Well, the answer to this mystery is that they are actually two very different products, with very different uses.
What is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a phytocannabinoid extracted from the Hemp variety of the Cannabis plant species. Due to the fact that CBD is extracted from the Hemp plant, it is often confused with hemp Seed oil.
What are the benefits of CBD?
The reason Hemp Seed oil can be beneficial is due to its containment of essential fatty acids, but the reason CBD oil can be so beneficial is simply due to the fact it contains CBD! Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occuring compound, known as an endocannabinoid. Unlike THC (which is also derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant species) it does not produce psychoactive effects, or a ‘high’. CBD interacts with the human body by mimicking the effects of the endocannabinoids naturally produced within the body.
The human endocannabinoid system plays an important role in regulating many bodily functions, including: mood, energy, immune system, blood pressure, pain, stress, hunger, and much more! The endocannabinoid system can be very easily thrown out of balance through factors such as diet, stress, and exercise. So what happens if the endocannabinoid system does not function properly? In short, illness and disease. Using CBD can help to regulate and improve the functioning of your endocannabinoid system, which can promote better health and general wellbeing. Many people use CBD to help promote relief from problems such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and pain.
It is important to ensure that, when buying CBD products, they do not contain any THC. Many CBD products on the market do contain THC, which can mean they may be illegal here in the UK, and unsafe for your use. Be sure to always do your research! If you are in need of some guidance, head over to honesthemp.co.uk for CBD products that are 100% THC free, and have undergone rigorous third-party cannabinoid testing to meet strict requirements.
What is hemp seed Oil?
So where does Hemp Seed oil come from? As mentioned before, CBD is extracted from the stems, stalks, leaves and flowers of the Hemp plant. The only part of the plant left that does not contain CBD, or any other cannabinoids, is the seeds. Yep, you guessed it, that’s exactly where Hemp Seed oil comes from! (Clue is in the name, right?).
The oil is obtained by cold-pressing these seeds, providing us with a dark green, nutty flavoured oil. This can be used as an oral solution, or it can be refined and used in various cosmetic and topical products.
Benefits of hemp seed oil?
Hemp Seed oil contains a combination of omega-6 and omega-3 essential fatty acids. Both of these fatty acids are important in the human body. They are vital components of cell membranes, and are precursors to many other substances that are involved in various bodily functions, such as regulating blood pressure and inflammatory responses. Due to the anti-inflammatory effects that Hemp Seed oil has, it can be a great topical product.
When applied to the skin, it can provide moisturization, anti-aging benefits, balance of oil production, and skin cell repair. When ingested orally, Hemp Seed oil can provide health benefits surrounding the heart and the immune system. There is evidence to suggest that omega-6 and omega-3 can protect against heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. These essential fatty acids need to be consumed in the diet in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, as not all forms of omega-6 and omega-3 can be produced by the body (unlike other fatty acids). This is the main reason that people use Hemp Seed oil.
Which one do I choose?
Well, it entirely depends on what you are searching for from a product. If you are looking to reap the benefits of CBD, you need to ensure that this is what you are buying. Hemp Seed oils tend to be cheaper, meaning people can believe they are getting a good deal on a CBD product. However, the reality is, of course, that they do not contain any trace of CBD and will therefore not provide you with any cannabidiol benefits. Many CBD oils are made using Hemp Seed oil as the ‘carrier’ oil, meaning you will essentially be taking both CBD and Hemp Seed at the same time! Other CBD oils may be made using MCT oil (medium-chain triglyceride) as the carrier oil. CBD made using MCT oil can provide a more tasteless alternative, and can promote different benefits, including boosting the metabolism, and aiding in muscle recovery.
When trying to decide between Hemp Seed oil and CBD, consider which benefits you are looking to reap. Ensure that you always check the ingredients, and look for products that are 100% THC free and non-GMO. Only buy CBD products that show proof that they have undergone cannabinoid testing.