Feb 14, 2022
What Is the Difference Between CBD Oil, Hemp Seed Oil, and THC Oil?
One confusing element in the cannabis world is the distinction between oils. Brands are selling hemp seed oil, CBD oil, and THC oil, but what is the difference?
Because these three oils offer unique benefits and effects, it's essential to define each, so you always know what to look for in new products. So, what is the difference between CBD, hemp seed, and THC oil?
Hemp Seed Oil
Hemp seed oil, also known as hemp oil, is made from the seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant. The plant produces round, 3-5 millimeter seeds with about 20% - 25% oil. Seeds from the plant have little to no CBD or THC but do contain nutrients like omega fatty acids, vitamin D and B, and other healthy antioxidants.
Making hemp seed oil involves using mechanical pressing or solvents, then refining the crude oil. Hemp seed oil is federally legal in the U.S., and unlike other cannabis products, it isn’t used recreationally.
CBD Oil
The CBD oil industry is widening quickly, with more and more products on the market. CBD oil also comes from Cannabis sativa, but it is made from the hemp plant's flowers, leaves, and stems.
Manufacturers usually use ethanol or CO2 extraction to get the crude oil from the plant. You'll find CBD products in three varieties: isolate, Broad-Spectrum, and Full-Spectrum. CBD isolate oil only contains the cannabidiol compound, while Broad-Spectrum contains CBD and other cannabinoids, with no THC. Full-Spectrum contains CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids.
THC Oil
THC oil is produced in the same way as CBD oil, but it creates different effects for users. Whereas CBD alone is not psychoactive, THC gives users an intoxicating effect.
Again, manufacturers use the hemp leaves, stems, and flowers from cannabis plants to extract THC oil. THC is often sold as marijuana oil or cannabis oil, but it is not legal in most states. If a product contains more than 0.3% THC, it is considered marijuana, and therefore has different legal requirements.
How are THC, CBD, and Hemp Seed Oil Similar?
Though these oils are vastly different in terms of effects, production processes, and legalities, there are some similarities.
All three oils come from the same species of hemp plant - Cannabis sativa. And, they each have some potential benefits due to their natural origins.
The oils are also used in similar products. Hemp seed, CBD, and THC are often found in topical creams and lotions as well as ingestible oils.
Finding the Right Product
The most important thing to remember when buying a cannabis oil product is researching and reading the Certificate of Analysis. Some brands mislabel products, referring to CBD oil as "hemp seed oil" or “hemp oil,” with other misleading language.
Cannabis plants have a lot to offer, and the research about potential effects continues to grow. Armed with a complete understanding of the different types of oils, you can find a product that fits your lifestyle.