As we shift away from the taboo associated with CBD, it's important to note the terminology and verbiage used in the industry.  A common area of confusion lies in the distinction between CBD oil and hemp oil. Part of the issue stems from the misuse of both these terms, and the fact that they are sometimes used interchangeably.  Despite this, the two are, in fact, very different from its cultivation, to its ingredients, to its use cases, and effects.

WHERE DID THE CONFUSION START?

To further add to the confusion, there are a number of companies that have chosen to describe their CBD products with the term "hemp oil" as a method for avoiding complications with the FDA. Or "hemp oil" is used to describe hemp-derived CBD oil. So technically, the term "hemp oil" can be correctly used in reference to CBD products that are made from the flowers and leaves of a hemp plant. However, it is more commonly used to refer to hemp seed oil, which does not contain any active CBD or THC. 

For the purposes of this article, the term "hemp oil" will be used in reference to hemp seed oil. 

INGREDIENTS

The most efficient way of differentiating between hemp oil and CBD oil is to analyze the ingredients on the label or packaging.  Hemp oil will often have some reference to the seed as the active ingredient.  For example, "cannabis seed oil," "hemp seed oil," "raw, organic hemp seed oil."

USE CASES - hemp oil

Hemp oil is rich in proteins and fatty acids, which makes it a versatile additive for both food and beauty products. Hemp oil has been on the market for well over a decade and has been present in health food stores due to its antioxidants, fatty acids like omega-3 and -6, protein, potassium, magnesium, in addition to high levels of Vitamins E, B, B1, and B2. 

It has developed the reputation of being a superfood and touted for the nutritional value it adds to your diet. With the presence of fatty acids, it's also known to be a great moisturizer and is frequently found in skin care products ranging from lotions and shampoos to soaps and cleansers. It's even been noted to have a positive effect on PMS symptoms. 

Furthermore, hemp oil is so versatile that it has been used in unique products like plastics, lubrication, and even paint.

USE CASES - CBD OIL

The primary ingredient in CBD oil is the concentration of cannabidiol (CBD), which has a wide range of health benefits that include its use as a pain reliever, sleep aid, and antidepressant. Not to be confused with THC (which is what creates the sensation of euphoria when individuals look to recreationally "get high"), CBD works with your body in a different way. 

Your body uses something called the endocannabinoid system (ECS), in order to keep itself balanced. This includes sleep, hormone, pain, emotions, and appetite. CBD helps stimulate natural cannabinoid production and keep the ECS functioning optimally.

Lastly, CBD has been shown to have a direct impact on pain and inflammation. One of its benefits is the ability to reduce stiffness, swelling, and physical discomfort.

PRICE & LOCATION

While both CBD oil and hemp oil can be found in superfood stores, pharmacies, and health food boutiques, they are generally sold in different locations, which stark price differences. This is due to the fact that CBD oil is much more expensive to produce and will naturally cost you more.

Most reputable CBD oil brands can generally be sourced directly from a brand's website and will include a Certificate of Analysis, such as Envy CBD. However, as the market continues to grow, there is a growing number of pharmacies that have begun to carry CBD oil brands. Before making any purchase, we advise that you conduct research into the brand.

Hemp seed oil can be found almost everywhere, from Amazon to your local grocery store, to a pharmacy. The ingredients should never contain any CBD or THC and include some mention of "seed". 

SIMILARITIES

After detailing all of the differences between hemp oil and CBD oil, there are some key similarities to keep in mind:

• They are both are oils and can come from a cannabis sativa plant
• They are both different than THC heavy marijuana which has a euphoric or intoxicating effect
• They both have various benefits and positive healing notes
• They both have topical and oral uses
• They can both be marketed as hemp products

THE BOTTOM LINE

While "hemp" is commonly used in reference to both hemp seed oil and CBD oil, there are key differences between the two to prevent confusion. Hemp oil, or hemp seed oil, is most commonly used in nutrition and beauty products. While they are marketed using similar terminology, the key way to ensure you purchase the correct product is to look at the label for the ingredient make up.

Hemp oil and CBD oil are both wellness ingredients but differ vastly in their benefits. CBD works well with the internal balance in your body and has an impact on things like sleep, mood, physical wellbeing, and appetite. It can be used as a pain reliever or antidepressant. On the other hand, hemp oil is high in protein and fatty acids, which makes it a great additive for cooking or skin care. It can be used for its hydrating properties as well as heart health.

If you are looking for the benefits that come from CBD oil, the product should contain CBD or cannabidiol as its active ingredient. If you are looking to include hemp oil into your lifestyle, the active ingredients should have some reference to "seed" whether it is hemp seed oil, cannabis seed, or cannabis sativa, seed.