As interest in natural wellness continues to grow, so does the curiosity around plant-based oils like CBD oil and hemp oil. While they may sound similar—and even come from the same plant species—their uses, extraction methods, and compositions are very different.
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether you should buy CBD oil or hemp oil, this guide is here to clear up the confusion.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is typically made by extracting cannabidiol (CBD) from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the hemp plant. The CBD is then blended with a carrier oil, such as MCT oil, hemp seed oil, or olive oil, to create a consumable product.
CBD is one of many naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis plants (known as cannabinoids), but unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it doesn’t have psychoactive effects.
Common Uses:
Often used as a part of personal wellness routines
Popular in tinctures, capsules, gummies, and topical products
What Is Hemp Oil?
Hemp oil, also known as hemp seed oil, is made by cold-pressing the seeds of the hemp plant. These seeds do not contain CBD or THC. Instead, hemp seed oil is valued for its nutritional content and is commonly used in cooking, skincare, and beauty products.
Common Uses:
Added to smoothies, salad dressings, or recipes for its nutty flavor
Found in moisturizers, shampoos, and soaps
Key Differences Between CBD Oil and Hemp Oil
Feature
CBD Oil
Hemp Oil
Source
Extracted from hemp flowers, leaves, and stalks
Cold-pressed from hemp seeds
Contains CBD
Yes
No
Contains THC
Trace amounts (must be <0.3% to be federally legal in the U.S.)
None
Primary Use
Personal wellness, supplementation
Cooking, skincare, general nutrition
Regulation
Varies by country and state
Widely available and generally considered a food product
CBD Oil vs. Hemp Oil: What’s the Difference?
As interest in natural wellness continues to grow, so does the curiosity around plant-based oils like CBD oil and hemp oil. While they may sound similar—and even come from the same plant species—their uses, extraction methods, and compositions are very different.
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether you should buy CBD oil or hemp oil, this guide is here to clear up the confusion.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is typically made by extracting cannabidiol (CBD) from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the hemp plant. The CBD is then blended with a carrier oil, such as MCT oil, hemp seed oil, or olive oil, to create a consumable product.
CBD is one of many naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis plants (known as cannabinoids), but unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it doesn’t have psychoactive effects.
Common Uses:
What Is Hemp Oil?
Hemp oil, also known as hemp seed oil, is made by cold-pressing the seeds of the hemp plant. These seeds do not contain CBD or THC. Instead, hemp seed oil is valued for its nutritional content and is commonly used in cooking, skincare, and beauty products.
Common Uses:
Key Differences Between CBD Oil and Hemp Oil