With the legalization of hemp in the United States, hemp oil vs cannabidiol (cannabidiol) is a hot topic. While both are derived from the same plant, they come from different parts of the plant. CBD oil comes from the entire plant. Hemp oil is extracted from the seeds. Hemp oil is also commonly referred to as hemp seed oil. Both offer many health benefits.
Hemp Oil vs Cannabidiol
Keep in mind that hemp is legal on the federal level. The states were left to decide for themselves how to proceed. However, if you’re ordering hemp or CBD products, you’re not going to have any problems, as those products are legal. If you want to grow hemp in your garden, check your local laws.
If you’re wondering about the differences between hemp and marijuana, they’re two different varieties of the same plant, Cannabis sativa. Hemp was cultivated for its strong fibers that are used in making rope. Marijuana was cultivated for recreational use.
Hemp oil is similar to other cooking-type oils and is used in cooking and skincare products. CBD oil is used in the alternative and holistic medicine arena.
CBD oil can provide powerful medicinal benefits:
CBD to Reduce Inflammation
There are over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, which are known as phytocannabinoids. The main two are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD. THC is the cannabinoid responsible for producing a high feeling when you consume marijuana. CBD does not give you a “high” feeling but it can help reduce inflammation and pain in the body.
To understand how CBD reduces inflammation, we need to understand what causes inflammation in the first place. Inflammation can occur after an injury or infection and happens when cells release chemicals called cytokines into our bloodstreams to alert our immune system that there are foreign invaders in our bodies. This process causes swelling and redness around injured areas of skin or internal organs. These substances cause pain and discomfort by activating nerve endings and releasing chemicals that cause inflammation and other symptoms such as fever or fatigue.
The anti-inflammatory action of CBD oil is being studied in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s.
In general, CBD oil is known to reduce inflammation by:
- Reduces cytokines
- Inhibits COX-2 enzyme activity
- Regulates lipid metabolism
- Inhibits tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) production
- Decreases interleukin-6 (IL-6) production
- Increases anandamide levels (a cannabinoid receptor ligand that regulates pain perception and memory processes)
- Decreases reactive oxygen species (ROS) production
CBD as an Analgesic
CBD oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve pain and swelling associated with arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. It may also help reduce anxiety, improve sleep cycles and reduce nausea and vomiting associated with cancer treatment.
Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, research suggests that CBD could help relieve symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and colitis.
CBD Oil for Anxiety
BD works by activating receptors on cells throughout the body called cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are part of our endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is responsible for regulating our mood and emotional responses. When CBD activates these receptors, it can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
The main way that CBD reduces anxiety is by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps transmit signals between neurons in the brain and nervous system that control things like sleep, appetite, and moods. Serotonin deficiency has been linked to depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders such as PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder).
CBD Oil for Your Skin
CBD oil has been shown to be effective in treating acne. According to research published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, CBD may help reduce acne by reducing sebum production and inflammation. The study also found that CBD could possibly be an effective treatment for other skin conditions such as rosacea and psoriasis. It is packed with fatty acids and other nutrients, including vitamins A and E, as well as omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.
Hemp oil is a great moisturizer for the skin. Hemp oil can be applied directly to the skin. It is also being used in many commonly available skincare products. Hemp oil is a great moisturizer for the skin. It is also a good source of vitamin E and essential fatty acids that can help reduce inflammation and prevent aging. Hemp oil contains all the essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. It can be used as an ingredient in cosmetic products like soap or lotion, or it can be consumed directly.
CBD Oil for Cancer
CBD oil for cancer is a hot topic. The medical community is still learning about the effectiveness of CBD oil for cancer, but early research shows some promise. CBD oil is a popular product that’s used to treat a variety of ailments including anxiety and insomnia, but it has also become popular among cancer patients. Many people use CBD oil to treat their symptoms as well as manage pain, inflammation and other symptoms associated with cancer treatment.
Research suggests that CBD may exert some of its pharmacological action through its inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which may in turn increase the levels of endocannabinoids, such as anandamide, produced by the body. It has also been speculated that some of the metabolites of CBD have pharmacological effects that contribute to the biological activity of CBD.
Hemp Oil for Cancer
Hemp seed oil has been found effective against various types of cancer cells in vitro studies conducted by scientists at the University of Nottingham (UK), Colorado State University (USA), and the University of Milan (Italy). The researchers concluded that “as hemp seed oil has no psychoactive effect on humans,” this substance could provide an alternative treatment option for cancer patients who are seeking alternative therapies to conventional treatments like chemotherapy.”
Hemp Oil vs Cannabidiol: Neither Produce a ‘High’
Neither will get you “high.” While both products come from the same species of plant as marijuana, hemp products come from a variety of plant that has minimal levels of THC, the chemical in marijuana that makes you feel “high”.
If you’re feeling really brave, consider trying hemp protein. It’s not the best tasting option, but it’s a healthy, complete protein and high in fiber.
CBD oil generally well-tolerated. The most common side effects include diarrhea, dry mouth, reduced appetite, and fatigue. CBD oil should be treated as any other over-the-counter item. Be responsible and cease using it if the side effects are too unpleasant. Stay in touch with your doctor if you have any concerns.
Hemp oil doesn’t have any side effects not found in other common food oils.
The Stigma is Changing for Cannabis
There is still a stigma attached to hemp products, but that is beginning to change with the legalization of hemp in the United States. Canada has always permitted the growing and processing of hemp.
Consider giving CBD oil and hemp oil a try. There are many potential benefits with minimal risk.
Read more:
Cannabidiol (CBD) in Cancer Management – PMC
Cannabidiol (CBD): a killer for inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts – PMC