Many people are turning to CBD oil and hemp extract for natural wellness solutions, but navigating these products can be confusing. While both come from hemp plants, they differ in their focus and composition.
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is a concentrated extract from the cannabis hemp plant, which has potential health benefits. Hemp extract, on the other hand, is a broader term encompassing various hemp-derived products like oils, tinctures, and topicals.
These products contain varying levels of CBD alongside other potentially beneficial compounds like terpenes. Understanding these distinctions will empower you to choose between CBD oil and hemp extract based on your specific wellness needs.
Understanding CBD Oil
Extracted from hemp, CBD oil offers a natural approach to wellness, boasting potential health benefits without the intoxicating effects of its cousin THC. CO2 extraction is a common method for obtaining this oil, rich in various cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, CBN, and CBC.
These cannabinoids work within the body's endocannabinoid system, a network influencing discomfort, mood, sleep, and the immune system. This interaction may lead to relief from discomfort, improved mood, and better sleep.
The potential of these combined cannabinoids, known as the "entourage effect," is a fascinating area of ongoing research that holds promise for future applications.
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.
Hemp Extract vs. CBD: 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, hemp, and marijuana, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content is a crucial legal consideration. CBD typically contains very low levels of THC, often below the legal limit of 0.3% THC in hemp-derived products. As a result, CBD 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.
Marijuana comes from the cannabis indica plant. This plant is known for containing high levels of THC. This plant contains less CBD and more THC. Marijuana is illegal in a great number of U.S. states.
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 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
When shopping for CBD products, look for companies prioritizing independent lab testing. These tests verify quality and safety by checking for accurate labeling, potential contaminants, and CBD potency. This transparency lets you make informed choices and ensures you get a safe and effective product for your wellness needs.
Differences Between Full-Spectrum, Broad-Spectrum, and Isolate CBD
Choosing between between Full-spectrum, Broad-spectrum, and Isolate products can be confusing. Look for labels mentioning these three types. Full-spectrum offers the widest range of cannabinoids, including small amounts of THC, for the potential entourage effect.
Broad-Spectrum CBD provides similar benefits without THC, while CBD isolate contains only pure CBD. Understanding these distinctions is key to picking the product that best suits your needs.
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 adding CBD or hemp extract to your daily routine. This can improve your mood and discomfort, help with sleep, and benefit your overall health. 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.
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For educational purposes only.
*FDA DISCLAIMER -These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.