According to a recent Gallup poll, 14% of Americans are currently using CBD products. Are you one of them?
If so, you’ve likely noticed a new flood of marijuana-free CBD products hitting dispensary shelves. But what are they, where do they come from, and how do they work?
Read on to learn more about hemp CBD vs cannabis CBD and decide which product type is best for you!
What is Cannabis?
Cannabis is a genus of flowering plants in the family cannabaceae. The plant species contains three varieties: cannabis sativa, cannabis indica and cannabis ruderalis.
Cannabis sativa is the most common and is used for industrial purposes, such as making textiles, clothing, biodegradable plastics, and fuel. Cannabis indica is a shorter and bushier plant than cannabis sativa, and it is known for its sedative effects. Cannabis ruderalis is a low-THC cannabis plant that is mainly used for hemp production. It is a hardy plant that can grow in harsh conditions, and it is also resistant to pests and diseases.
A 2016 study found that the average potency of cannabis plants has risen significantly in recent years, with levels of THC (the main psychoactive component of cannabis) reaching up to 12%. Average CBD levels have decreased proportionately, with levels now below 0.15%.
The Differences Between Marijuana and Hemp
The primary difference between marijuana and hemp is that marijuana contains a higher percentage of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive compound that produces the “high” associated with marijuana use. Hemp contains a much lower percentage of THC and is used primarily for industrial purposes, such as making paper, clothing, and bioplastics.
Technically, marijuana and hemp are the same plant species. The legal difference between the two is the amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) they contain.
To be considered hemp, and not cannabis, a plant must contain less than 0.3% THC by weight.
There are a number of risks associated with marijuana and hemp. For marijuana, the primary risks are its psychoactive effects which can impair cognitive function and create other unwanted side effects.
Marijuana also has a number of other risks, including respiratory problems from smoking and impaired driving ability.
Hemp, on the other hand, has little to no psychoactive effects with no risk of addiction. Hemp poses a much lower risk for respiratory problems than marijuana and does not impair driving ability.
Where Does CBD Come From?
CBD is extracted from both hemp and cannabis plants using the same methods.
First, the CBD oil must be separated from the plant’s raw materials. CO2 extraction is among the most common techniques, thanks to the pure and high potency results that it yields. However, the use of oil and solvents is also popular and cost-effective.
If you came here wondering – ‘should I use cannabis CBD or hemp CBD’, it might be time to adjust your thinking. Instead, consider the finished product’s potency and how it was extracted.
About Industrial Hemp
Industrial hemp is a growing industry, thanks to its numerous uses and acceptance as a viable cash crop.
What is industrial hemp? It is a type of cannabis plant that is grown specifically for industrial uses. It has a variety of uses, including making textiles, paper, bioplastics, construction materials, and food.
The history of industrial hemp dates back to the 18th century, when it was first used to make paper. Hemp fiber is stronger and more durable than wood fiber, making it an ideal material for producing paper.
The farm bill of 2018 made it easier for farmers to grow hemp without fear of legal repercussions, and it isn’t only being used for CBD! In fact, this powerful fiber has numerous industrial applications, unlike traditionally grown marijuana.
Hemp production is currently legal in 46 states, whereas marijuana harvesting is allowed in just 18.
Hemp Seed Oil vs CBD Oil Derived From Hemp
Comparing cannabis CBD vs hemp CBD, the differences are subtle and technical, with very little change to the final product or outcome. So, what about hemp seed oil?
Hemp seed oil is made from the seeds of the hemp plant. It is a type of vegetable oil that is high in omega-3 fatty acids. Hemp seeds are considered a super food for their high protein content and its oil is used for culinary and cosmetic purposes. Hemp seed oil has a number of health benefits, including:
- Reducing inflammation
- Improving heart health
- Reducing symptoms of arthritis
- It is a natural moisturizer
- It can improve skin health
- It is a natural source for antioxidants
When it comes to CBD oil, there are two main types: hemp-based CBD oil and marijuana-based CBD oil.
Hemp-based CBD oil is made from high-CBD, low-THC hemp, while marijuana-based CBD oil is made from plants with high levels of THC. Though they come from the same plant, the two oils are quite different.
CBD oil derived from hemp, on the other hand, is made from the CBD-rich resin of the hemp plant. It is used to manage a wide variety of medical conditions, and it is non-intoxicating.
Hemp seed oil contains no CBD and is made from a different part of the plant. While it is highly healthy, loaded with polyunsaturated fatty acids, it does not carry the same healing properties as CBD oil.
Both products are highly beneficial – but they aren’t used the same way.
Hemp CBD vs Cannabis CBD
Now that you know a bit more about where both types of CBD products come from and how they are made, it’s up to you to decide which is best for your needs. Just remember, you should always follow package directions for dosing and storage, no matter how your CBD was made.
Do you still need some help choosing hemp CBD vs cannabis CBD? No worries, we’re here to help! Contact us with your questions, and we’ll be sure to respond within 24 to 48 hours.
While you wait, stick around and shop our online catalog. Who knows, you might just find that perfect product!
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Site Disclaimer
Marijuana is a Controlled Substance under the Controlled Substance Act (21 U.S.C. 802) (“CSA”) and the cultivation, distribution, and possession of marijuana is a crime under federal law. Keep all marijuana and marijuana products out of reach of children and animals. Intoxicating effects of marijuana and marijuana products may be delayed. Use of marijuana while pregnant or breastfeeding may be harmful. Consumption of marijuana and marijuana products impairs your ability to drive and operate machinery, please use extreme caution.
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