When it comes to hemp oil and CBD oil, it is about nutrition versus helping various conditions
Because both hemp and cannabidiol (CBD) come from the cannabis plant, the two terms are often used interchangeably. Still, they are not the same. One is more based on nutrition, while the other can offer more benefits in managing the condition. When looking at hemp oil and CBD oil, understanding when each can be better requires first recognizing how they differ.
Differences between hemp oil and CBD oil
Perhaps the most notable difference is that hemp and CBD come from different species of the sativa cannabis plant. In addition, each type of product is created using different parts of its respective plant. That is, hemp oil comes from the seeds of the plant while CBD oil is derived from the stem, flowers and leaves.
The reason this is important is that each part provides different nutrients and compounds. Seeds, for example, are rich in fatty acids. A 2015 study in Food Chemistry analyzed a type of oil made from hemp seeds and found that it contained both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, in a ratio of approximately 3: 1. This hemp seed oil was also a good source of other polyunsaturated fatty acids, with γ-linolenic and stearidonic acid topping the list.
The compounds contained in a CBD product differ depending on whether it is an isolate or a full or broad spectrum CBD. A CBD isolate only contains one cannabis plant compound, which is CBD. Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum CBD oils also contain other compounds, such as other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
A full spectrum CBD contains an additional compound: tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. THC is the compound of the cannabis plant known to provide a psychoactive response. Although hemp products may contain THC, the levels are very low. In contrast, over-the-counter CBD products can legally contain up to 0.3% THC according to federal regulations.
Benefits of hemp oil
Depending on your makeup, hemp oil products are generally more nutritious. Research published in the journal Nutrients in June 2020 explains that hemp seeds are:
- 25-35% fat, of which 90% is unsaturated, with 70-80% of these fatty acids being polyunsaturated fatty acids
- 20-25% protein, more in the inner layers of the seed than those in the hull
- 20-30% carbohydrates, with dietary fiber providing most carbohydrates, mostly insoluble fiber
The authors of the research go on to say that these seeds also contain a variety of antioxidants, carotenoids, tocopherols and other healthy ingredients. The combination of macronutrients and all the additional compounds make hemp oil products more beneficial for nutritional purposes.
This is not to say that taking hemp oil cannot help with certain medical conditions. Many animal-based studies have found that hemp can relieve pain, for example. A 2021 study adds that hemp peptides may also offer anticancer properties, specifically when it comes to liver cancer.
As research continues, we will learn more about the scope of the benefits that hemp oil products offer. Meanwhile, much of their value seems to come from the nutrition they provide.
Benefits of CBD Oil
The compounds in CBD oil products are less about nutrition and more about the benefits they can offer to mental and physical health conditions. Instead of being rich in fats, proteins and carbohydrates, these products seem to offer patients benefits associated with the different cannabinoids, flavonoids and terpenes they contain.
A 2019 review shares that phytocannabinoids offer neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory benefits. Several studies have also shown that CBD contains anxiolytic and antidepressant properties. Conditions that CBD oil could help manage or treat include neurogenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis, depression, anxiety, cancer, and epilepsy.
Many also use CBD oil in an effort to relieve pain. Some studies indicate that pain relief appears to be more promising in CBD products that also contain THC. For example, a 2014 study included 303 patients with peripheral neuropathic pain. Compared with a placebo group, subjects who received a THC / CBD oromucosal spray had improved pain levels. They had also improved sleep quality.
Guide patients on the use of hemp and CBD products
Educating patients about the differences between hemp oil and CBD oil allows them to better decide which one to take based on their desired health goals and benefits. If their intention is more nutritious, hemp oil is likely to be the product they want. Conversely, if they are more interested in managing or treating a health condition, a CBD product might be more appropriate.
