Is Hemp Extract The Same As CBD Oil | Is There A Difference?
CBD and hemp extract products are highly popular, capturing consumers' attention and seeking natural remedies for various health concerns. From wellness enthusiasts to individuals seeking relief from discomforts, these products have found their way into diverse markets, making their mark as potential alternatives to traditional therapies.
CBD oil and hemp extract are two terms often used interchangeably, leading to confusion among consumers. CBD oil is a concentrated oil derived from the hemp plant, containing a large amount of cannabidiol (CBD) and with some other cannabinoids intermixed.
On the other hand, hemp extract is a broader term encompassing a range of products derived from hemp plants, including oils, tinctures, and topicals, with varying levels of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds.
This blog explains the similarities and differences between CBD oil and hemp extract, clarifying their distinct characteristics and potential benefits. By exploring these products' properties, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding, empowering them to make informed choices when considering CBD and hemp extract for their wellness needs.
Understanding CBD Oil
CBD oil is a natural extract derived from the hemp plant, Cannabis Sativa or Industrial Hemp. It is one of the many cannabinoids in hemp and is known for its potential health benefits. Unlike its cousin, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not have psychoactive effects, making it a non-intoxicating and safe option for users.
The extraction process of CBD oil from the cannabis plant involves various methods, with CO2 extraction being one of the most common. This process involves pressurized carbon dioxide to pull CBD and other beneficial compounds from the hemp plant. The result is a pure and potent CBD oil that can be used in various products, such as tinctures, capsules, and topicals.
CBD oil contains a range of cannabinoids, each with its potential effects on the body. Apart from CBD, other key cannabinoids found in CBD oil include cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabichromene (CBC).
These cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network regulating various physiological processes such as discomfort perception, mood, immune function, sleep, and more. The potential effects of these cannabinoids may include discomfort relief, mood improvement, and sleep support.
Combining these cannabinoids in CBD oil is believed to create an "entourage effect," where the synergistic interaction enhances their therapeutic potential. As research on cannabinoids continues, a deeper understanding of their specific effects and applications continually evolves.
Exploring Hemp Extract
Hemp extract is a natural compound derived from the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. It is a broad term encompassing a variety of products derived from hemp, including oils, tinctures, edibles, and topicals.
Unlike CBD oil, which specifically focuses on extracting cannabidiol (CBD), hemp extract encompasses a wider range of beneficial compounds in the plant, such as other cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and fatty acids.
The composition of hemp extract is diverse and includes a spectrum of cannabinoids beyond CBD, such as cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabichromene (CBC). These cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), contributing to potential therapeutic effects.
CBD vs. Hemp Extract: What Sets them Apart?
Cannabinoid Content
When considering cannabinoid content, CBD oil, and hemp extract differ significantly. CBD oil primarily focuses on cannabidiol (CBD) concentration, aiming to deliver the potential benefits of this specific cannabinoid.
On the other hand, hemp extract presents a broader spectrum of cannabinoids, including CBD, as well as other beneficial compounds like cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabichromene (CBC). Not to say that CBD oil doesn't have other cannabinoids as well.
This wide range of cannabinoids in CBD or hemp extract allows for what is known as the entourage effect, where the interactions between various cannabinoids and other plant compounds may enhance their overall therapeutic potential.
THC Content
When comparing CBD oil and hemp extract, THC content is a crucial legal consideration. CBD oil typically contains very low levels of THC, often below the legal limit of 0.3% THC in hemp-derived products. As a result, CBD oil is non-intoxicating and safe for most users.
Hemp extract, on the other hand, may contain varying levels of THC, depending on the product's formulation and extraction process. While THC in hemp extract is also kept within legal limits, it may be a concern for individuals subjected to strict drug testing or those sensitive to even trace amounts of THC.
However, the presence of trace THC in hemp extract is believed to contribute to the entourage effect, enhancing the overall therapeutic benefits of the product.
Potential Uses and Applications
CBD oil is renowned for its targeted benefits and therapeutic applications. It is commonly used for mood management, worry reduction, discomfort relief, and sleep support, among other potential benefits.
Its high concentration of CBD makes it an attractive choice for those seeking specific effects. Hemp extract products offer the same versatility. However, hemp extract products with a higher concentration of other cannabinoids like CBC, CBN, THC, and CBG may be more effective.
Both types show promising benefits, but whichever one contains a higher concentration of cannabinoids will be the more effective option. So, choosing hemp extract or CBD may not matter, but the amount of cannabinoids inside will.
Misconception and Marketing labels
The CBD and hemp industry has witnessed an influx of misleading product labels and terms, causing confusion among consumers. With limited regulations, some products may need to be more accurately labeled, misrepresenting their contents or potency.
Additionally, certain products labeled as "hemp oil", "hemp seed oil" or "hemp extract" may lack CBD altogether, causing misunderstandings about their potential benefits. Hemp oil or hemp extract could refer to any oil from the cannabis hemp plant, meaning it only comes from the hemp plant's seeds. The seeds do not contain cannabinoids but are far cheaper than CBD or a hemp extract oil that does contain cannabinoids.
Make sure not to fall into the trap of buying something labeled hemp and thinking it contains those helpful cannabinoids. Price is a pretty good indicator of whether you're buying something with CBD in it. Third-party lab tests can also showcase the level of cannabinoids in a product.
As the industry continues to evolve, it becomes increasingly crucial for consumers to exercise caution and seek reputable sources that provide transparent and reliable information.
Importance Of Third-Party Lab Tests and Transparency
The importance of third-party lab testing and transparency cannot be overstated in ensuring product quality and safety. Reputable CBD and hemp companies should regularly conduct third-party lab tests, making the results readily available to consumers.
These tests verify the accuracy of product labels, confirming the CBD and THC content and identifying any potential contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, or residual solvents. Transparent companies provide a complete breakdown of their product's composition, allowing consumers to make informed purchase decisions.
Third-party lab testing enhances consumer trust, assuring that the products they consider are high quality, potency, and purity. As consumers prioritize their well-being, seeking products from companies committed to transparency and third-party testing is key to responsible CBD and hemp product consumption.
Differences Between Full-Spectrum, Broad-Spectrum, and Isolate CBD
Understanding the distinctions between full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate products is essential when navigating the CBD and hemp market. Full-spectrum products contain a wide range of cannabinoids, including CBD, THC within legal limits, and other beneficial compounds like terpenes and flavonoids.
This combination often produces the entourage effect, enhancing the product's overall effectiveness. Broad-spectrum products offer a similar range of cannabinoids and compounds but without THC, catering to those who wish to avoid even trace amounts of the psychoactive compound.
Isolate products, on the other hand, contain only pure CBD, isolated from all other cannabinoids and compounds. Each product type offers distinct benefits, making it crucial for consumers to understand their preferences and needs when selecting the most suitable product.
Look for CBD or hemp extract products labeled Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, or Isolate CBD. CBD labels with these titles are a good indicator that the product is legitimate and give you a better idea of the amount of cannabinoids in the oil.
Making Informed Choices: Selecting the Right Product
When selecting the right CBD or hemp extract product, making informed choices is crucial to achieving the desired benefits.
Start by identifying your specific needs and goals. Consider the reasons for incorporating CBD or hemp extract into your wellness routine, whether for mood relief, discomfort management, sleep, or overall well-being. Understanding your objectives will guide you toward the most suitable product type and formulation.
CBD and Hemp extract products are often formulated toward a certain goal. You can find products that will help you receive the benefits you want. However, make sure to do your research on the company and product before purchasing.
Sum It Up!
By now, you should know the difference between Hemp Extract and CBD products. A CBD oil's main focus is to contain a high concentration of CBD. In contrast, Hemp Extract oils may contain a wider range of other cannabinoids, including CBD.
Buying from reputable companies that provide third-party lab testing is a sure way to know that what you are buying has the cannabinoids you expect it to have in it.
If you are looking to get a specific result, look out for those CBD or Hemp extract products that provide the benefits you are looking to receive. Elevated levels of CBN can assist with sleep, and elevated levels of CBG can assist with mood. Our buying just a regular Broad or Full Spectrum CBD or hemp extract oil may do both and more.
Make sure to do your research and ask for help. You can also check out our other blogs to find the answers you are looking for.
Zatural CBD Products
For educational purposes only.
*FDA DISCLAIMER -These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.