What's the difference between CBD Oil & Hemp Seed Oil?

Available in drops, capsules, gummies, balms, patches, and e-liquids, CBD has become an increasingly popular natural remedy. People of all ages vouch for its ability to alleviate a host of symptoms.

Hemp oil can be a synonym for CBD oil, but in most cases, it’s referring to hemp seed oil. It’s important to note that the two are very different products.

In today’s article, Peak Organics explain how to tell the difference between hemp seed oil and CBD oil.

Keep reading to learn more. 

CBD oil

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical found in hemp and cannabis plants.

CBD oil is considered a food supplement – mixed with food and drink or placed directly beneath the tongue – and comes from the flowers and leaves of the plant. Using a specialist extraction process, manufacturers can draw out an extract that contains CBD and other components.

People use CBD oil for all sorts of reasons but, mostly, it’s because of its alleged medical benefits.

For example, it can treat:

  • anxiety and depression
  • epilepsy
  • insomnia
  • neurodegenerative diseases (i.e. Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s)
  • pain and inflammation
  • skin conditions

Researchers are still attempting to determine how CBD oil affects the human body, but the evidence from animal studies is promising and suggests it’s safe to use.

Potential side effects include:

  • Diarrhoea
  • Fatigue
  • Low blood pressure
  • Nausea
  • Reduced appetite
  • Vomiting

CBD may interfere with other medications. So, before you start using CBD oil and other CBD-derived products, it’s always a good idea to speak with your doctor. And always buy from a reputable supplier. At Peak Organics, we ensure all our products are labelled clearly and correctly! 

Hemp seed oil

Derived from the seeds of the cannabis sativa plant, hemp seed oil contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, gamma-linolenic acid and a range of other nutritional antioxidants.

Hemp seed oil is high in vitamin B and vitamin D. Containing no THC – short for tetrahydrocannabinol – and only a small amount of (if any) CBD, it’s not intended for recreational purposes but can often be found in nutritional supplements and skincare products.

Hemp seed oil is said to have anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-ageing effects, and it can:

  • relieve constipation
  • modify the immune system
  • improve skin conditions
  • improve gastrointestinal conditions

Many believe that hemp seed oil helps them to maintain good cardiovascular health by improving their cholesterol levels. However, the evidence for its effectiveness is not yet clear.

On the whole, hemp seed oil is deemed safe for consumption. Some people may experience digestive issues as a result of using such products, but it’s rare. 

Key differences between CBD oil and hemp seed oil

Hemp seed oil and cannabidiol oil are both derived from the cannabis plant and provide numerous potential health benefits, but they differ in several ways:

  • They aren’t made in the same way
  • Hemp seed oil doesn’t contain CBD
  • CBD has more potential benefits to human health

In its production, CBD oil uses the stalks, leaves, and flowers of the hemp plant. These parts contain a higher concentration of CBD.

Hemp seed oil comes from the seeds of the cannabis sativa plant, which do not contain CBD but are rich in nutrients, fatty acids, and other useful bioactive compounds. It’s generally made through cold-pressing hemp seeds to create a dark, thick, nutrient-rich oil.

Whilst hemp seed oil offers some basic nutritional benefits, CBD can relieve stress, ensure a restful night’s sleep, alleviate joint pain, arthritis, and so much more.

The best way to determine if a product is CBD oil or hemp oil is to look closely at the ingredients listed on the packaging. If you don’t see the words “hemp oil” or “hemp seed oil” labelled, try looking for “cannabis seed oil” or “cannabis sativa seed oil”. And if you’re after a product that’s purely CBD, make sure “cannabidiol” or “CBD” is included in the list of ingredients. 

Is CBD oil better than hemp oil?

CBD oil and hemp seed oil are two distinct products that have their pros and cons. Though they are both sold as food supplements (not medicines), neither should be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet, and the most suitable option for you depends on how you want to use the oil.

Hemp oil is commonly used for skincare and cooking – soothing dry skin and supporting heart health. CBD has properties that are unmatched by hemp oil and is typically used to treat health concerns.

If you decide to use CBD oil, make sure you consult your doctor (especially if you’re on prescribed medication already). And for the best CBD oil in the UK, check out our extensive collection here at Peak Organics.

We stock full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD products – ranging from our Mindful range that helps with anxiety, mental health, and stress to our Active range, suited to those who play sports. These oils are great for preventing sporting injuries and alleviating pain and swelling.

To find out more about the products we supply, give us a call on 0333 043 9975.