Throughout the past several years, it’s likely that you’ve heard more and more about CBD oil and other CBD products, as well as hemp. It’s possible that you’re wondering if you could benefit from their use. We wrote this article in an attempt to help you make a more informed decision and clear up some of the confusion, myths, and misconceptions regarding hemp and CBD oil.
First things first…
Are Hemp and CBD Oil the Same?
Found in marijuana, CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound. CBD can be derived from either non-hemp plants or from hemp plants. Hemp, on the other hand, is just a part of the cannabis sativa plant. The main thing to note about hemp is that it contains no more than 0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). This is especially important as we get into CBD vs. hemp products for sale.
Only the cannabis plant’s seeds are used to make hemp oil. CBD is not, however, contained in hemp seeds.
Hemp Oil Versus CBD Oil – Which Is Better?
Whether it’s better to use hemp oil vs. CBD oil largely depends on what you plan to use them for. CBD oil may be best. for treating certain conditions like depression and anxiety. For nutritional benefits, however, hemp oil may be the better fit. Although hemp oil can help for pain relief, CBD oil wins hands down more times than not in this department.
Nutrition breakdown:
- CBD – Contains thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, B12, B6 and high amounts of iron.
- Hemp – Great vitamin E source as well as minerals such as zinc, iron, calcium, sulfur, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. The seeds can be consumed roasted or cooked. For at least 3,000 years, China has used hemp seed oil as medicine and food because of its potential health benefits.
Debunking CBD Myths
Here are five CBD myths and the truth about them:
Myth #1 – CBD dosage is the same for everyone.
The truth – Regarding CBD dosages, it’s always best to start slowly and work your way up, particularly if you’re a CBD beginner. What level works for you may not be the same level as what works for someone else. In addition, depending on the reason for which you’re using CBD, you may experience better results taking it at a certain dosage or at a certain time of day. For example, if you’re taking CBD to help you sleep at night, you obviously wouldn’t take it in the morning. Instead, you would take it shortly before bedtime.
Myth #2 – One CBD product is the same as another CBD product.
The truth – From extra ingredients to spectrums and more, CBD products vary from one to the next. First of all, CBD comes in many forms, including gummies, capsules, oil drops, and many others. What’s more, some are flavored, some are not; some contain other substances (CBN, THC, and others), while other forms of CBD are pure. Additionally, dosages vary from product to product. It is therefore impossible to say that one CBFD product is the same as another.
Myth #3 – I shouldn’t use CBD because it will show up on a drug test.
The truth – CBD is not a controlled substance in the same way that THC is, which means it is not screened for on drug tests. However, traces of THC traces may still be detectable in certain forms of CBD, depending on the product and the brand. In most cases, there should not be enough THC contained within a high-quality CBD product for it to show on a drug test (0.3% or less). That said, it’s always best to exercise caution, especially prior to drug testing.
Myth #4 – I will get high if I use CBD products.
The truth – Again, because of the extremely low percentage of THC (0.3%), it is highly unlikely that you will derive any “high” sensation from using a CBD product. Anything you experience will likely be a placebo effect, or could be the result of another substance mixed with the CBD.
Myth #5 – CBD tastes bad.
The truth – The taste of your product will depend on the product itself. While an earthy, hempy flavor may be typical of some CBD oils, there are also flavored oils available that mask the traditional flavor. Some flavored options of CBD include peppermint, orange, lime, and more. There are even more exotic flavorings such as mint chocolate, espresso, and others.
Debunking Hemp Myths
Just like CBD, hemp tends to generate all sorts of rumors, myths, and misinformation. Let’s clear up some of the more well-known myths:
Myth #1 – Hemp is only used as a plant to get you high.
The truth – This is a two-part myth, so the answer will be in two parts, as well. Though the growing of the hemp plant is regulated differently from state to state, as a crop, hemp contributes significantly to our climate’s well-being. It enhances carbon sequestration and water retention. The plant itself is very versatile and can be used in a variety of things from nutrition and agriculture to textiles and construction. Hemp can also be farmed to create eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives for everyday items like plastics and cotton. As far as whether or not it will get you high, see the next myth…
Myth #2 – Hemp will get you high.
The truth – The THC level in hemp seed oil is so low (0.3%) that you generally don’t have to worry about getting high. In fact, many people even ingest hemp seed oil. Still, there is always the possibility that you can experience a psychoactive sensation from hemp, so keep this in mind when consuming the product, whether orally, through smoking/vaping, or topically.
Myth #3 – Hemp is hemp – all strains are alike.
The truth – Not really. As a member of the cannabis sativa plant family (yes, like marijuana), hemp has many distinct cultivars or strains. Different levels of CBD and varying levels of cannabinoid are possessed by each strain.
Benefits Of CBD
Now that we have some information about hemp and CBD oil underway, the next step is to discuss the benefits of each.
These days, it’s increasingly common for CBD to be found in a wide range of products. You may have seen it in lotions, bath bombs, or other beauty products. CBD can also be found in oil bases for food items, tinctures, vaporizers, and in capsules. If you’re a fan of gummies, the good news is that there’s also CBD gummies as well! It’s not surprising, when you consider all the benefits CBD offers. Here are some of them:
- May help reduce anxiety and stress – CBD has been used to treat multiple anxiety disorders including PTSD, panic disorders, seasonal affective disorder, and generalized anxiety disorders.
- Could be used as an epilepsy treatment – In 2018, under a specific brand name, cannabidiol was approved by the FDA for use in the treatment of epilepsy.
- May be of benefit to those who suffer from depression.
- May be useful for those experiencing certain autoimmune diseases, migraines, diabetes, inflammation, and chronic pain.
- CBD may help protect against certain neurological disorders.
- CBD is used by many people to help with sleep.
Benefits Of Hemp
For thousands of years, hemp has been used as a vital nutrition source, for oil, and as a fiber source. The seeds of hemp plants are the most important part. The nutrients, minerals, and vitamins in hemp seeds can help provide some significant advantages, health wise.
The following benefits may be enjoyed by using hemp:
- Good source of plant-based protein
- May help reduce the presence of eczema
- Can improve digestion
- May help reduce PMS symptoms
With a better understanding of hemp and CBD oil, you will hopefully feel more comfortable with the prospect of using one or more of the many CBD products available on the market. As with any product, it’s important to exercise caution and care, and always follow your doctor’s advice. Keep in mind that everyone reacts differently to CBD and hemp. The best advice we can give is to start slowly, be mindful, and while you’re at it, keep an open mind! If you do so, you’ll find that there are plenty of potential benefits to using high quality hemp and CBD products.
