What The Difference Between Hemp Extract and Hemp Seed Oil?

With all the fuss out there with CBD products, it’s important to be informed of exactly what it is you are buying. For some reason, the terms Hemp Extract and Hemp Seed Oil are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing!

Let’s go through a super simple explanation of the two so that you can make better decisions when buying cannabis products.

Hemp Seed Oil:

Hemp Seed oil is pressed from the seeds of the cannabis plant (hence the name) and while it may contain trace amounts of CBD, it is unlikely to contain any therapeutic amounts of the cannabinoid.

While it does not contain much CBD, hemp seed oil has an array of other great benefits. It is said to be similar to Healthy oils like olive oil, containing omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, and vitamin E. Hempseed Oil is also said to be great as a topical skincare product that does not clog pores and may even have anti-inflammatory properties.

Because Hempseed oil does not contain CBD, it should be a cheaper alternative. Though one of the reasons it is so often confused with hemp extract may, in fact, be to trick consumers into spending more for the product than necessary. So be careful!

Hemp Extract:

Hemp extract is also an oil, but it is extracted from the CBD rich flowers and buds of the cannabis plant and not from the seeds (which contain no CBD). If you are looking for a product that is rich in the healing powers of CBD extract is what you want! This product will be more expensive but is said to have loads of benefits.

What are those benefits? Taken internally (eg. a Tincture or capsule) CBD has been proven to be highly anti-inflammatory and great for people suffering from auto-immune conditions, Crohn’s, and more. The cannabinoid is said to reduce anxiety, depression, headaches, pain, and even help people sleep.

Topically CBD is said to be incredible for acne, eczema, and other skin conditions. Many claim it is also a pain reliever topically, though we are still on the fence about this claim (see article).

Know Before you Buy CBD:

Cannabis is a Bioaccumulator – this means it sucks up toxins from the ground. It is important to make sure your product is 3rd-party lab tested. We look for organic growing practices, and no traces of heavy metals, molds, micro toxins, or pesticides.

Lab testing is also important for potency. A large amount of CBD products (sadly) are mislabeled. Make sure 3rd-Party Lab testing shows the true potency per serving, otherwise you may be throwing your money down the drain.

Carrier Oil matters. Make sure your product is in healthy oil, like MCT.

The Spectrum. Is your CBD Oil Isolate, Full Spectrum, or Broad Spectrum? Isolated CBD is just the CBD cannabinoid – the advantage is you won’t fail a drug test. But in order to experience the full benefits of the plant (the entourage effect), you will need a full or at least broad-spectrum oil (the whole plant is said to be best).

Storage: Ideally your CBD will be in a lightproof container and temperature-controlled environment. The fridge or freezer is ideal.

Questions? Reach out (here) any time! Its what we are here for.