Hemp oil is not the same as cannabidiol (CBD) oil. The production of CBD oil uses the stalks, leaves, and flowers of the hemp plant, which contain a higher concentration of CBD, another potentially beneficial compound in the plant.
Hemp Seed Oil
Hemp seed oil comes from the small seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant. The seeds do not contain the same levels of compounds as the plant itself, but they still have a rich profile of nutrients, fatty acids, and useful bioactive compounds.
Full-spectrum hemp oil that also contains plant matter may add other effective compounds, which may help with certain health issues, such as inflammation.
Hemp seed oil is rich in omega fatty acids, but contains low levels of CBD or none at all. Hemp seed oil is used in cooking, beauty products, and as a bio-fuel source.
Some brands, like Charlotte’s Web CBD oil products, include whole-plant hemp extracts from strain specific plants. The extracts contain a unique blend of cannabinoids plus terpenes and flavonoids.
Also, hemp oil refers to a full-spectrum oil from the Cannabis sativa plant. Hemp seed oil, is the oil which comes from just the seeds of the hemp plant.
There is very little risk of intoxication from hemp oil as all forms of hemp oil come from food-grain strains of hemp. Food-grain strains of hemp contain less than 0.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the compound that causes the so-called “high” of marijuana.
Here are some benefits of hemp seed oil:
| Body Area | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Skin Health | The oil from the hemp seed is highly nutritious and may be especially helpful for the skin. Specifically for: • eczema • dermatitis • psoriasis • varicose eczema • acne rosacea |
| BraIn Health | The fatty acid content of hemp seed oil may also be good for the brain, which requires plenty of healthful fats to operate properly. |
| Heart Health | The comprehensive nutrient profile of hemp seed oil means that it may also be good for the heart. More research is needed. |
| Natural Pain Relief | Many people use hemp or CBD oil as a form of natural pain relief, especially if the pain is a result of inflammation. |
| Acne | The fatty acids in hemp seed oil may help balance the skin and prevent inflammation that can result in acne. |
| Muscle Tension | Full-spectrum hemp oil that contains CBD may also help with general stress and tension in the muscles. |
Topical hemp oils
Hemp oils can be used topically for a variety of hair and skin care uses. It may help treat symptoms related to some skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne rosacea.
Below is a list of some of the best topical hemp oils available. Check with the manufacturer before ingesting any of these oils.
| BRAND | DESCRIPTION | @PRICE |
|---|---|---|
| Life-Flo Pure Hemp Seed Oil | This virgin, organic, and cold-pressed hempseed oil is an affordable option that’s high in omega 3-6-9 fatty acids. It’s lightweight and easy to absorb, so it won’t leave your skin feeling oily. | $18 for 6oz |
| Aura Cacia Organic Hemp Seed Oil | This lightweight and organic hempseed oil has a grassy, nutty aroma. It contains vitamin E and essential fatty acids, which may help reduce signs of aging and damage from UV irritation. | $8.99 for 4 oz |
| Edens Garden Hemp Seed Carrier Oil | This hempseed carrier oil is designed to be used with essential oils, and can double as a skin moisturizer. It can be used to target dry areas on your body, such as your cuticles, heels, and elbows. | $8.95 for 4 oz |
| Bella Terra Unrefined Organic Hemp Seed Oil | This organic, cold-pressed hempseed oil has a light, nutty scent, and contains fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals. It can be used for skin, hair, and massage. | $13 for 4 oz. |
| Nature’s Brands Organic Hemp Seed Oil | This cold-pressed and organic hempseed oil has a light grassy and woody scent. It’s free of artificial preservatives, chemicals, and petroleum-based ingredients. It’s also packaged in biophotonic glass to ensure quality. | $15 for 3.4 oz. |
| Canada Hemp Foods Organic Hemp Oil | This organic, cold-pressed hempseed oil is an affordable option that’s made in small, handcrafted batches to ensure quality. | $10 for 17 oz. |
| Nutiva Organic Hemp Seed Oil | This cold-pressed, organic hempseed oil is rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and chlorophyll. It’s also sold in bisphenol A (BPA)-free packaging, which supports the company’s vision for a healthier world. | $7 for 8 oz. |
| Carrington Farms Organic Hemp Oil | This cold-pressed, organic hemp oil is of food-grade quality, and is full of essential fatty acids that may help to reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and improve your mood. | $12.99 for 12 oz. |
| Manitoba Harvest Hemp Seed Oil | This organic, cold-pressed hempseed oil is free of additives and GMOs. The Canadian farmer-owned company ensures a fresh and high-quality product by following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) at their wind-powered facility. | $11 for 8.4 oz. |
| Sky Organics Organic Hemp Seed Oil | This cold-pressed hempseed oil is made in small batches on small family-run farms in Canada and then bottled in the United States. Its high fatty acid content makes it a nutritious addition to salads, dressings, and dips. | $11 for 8 oz |
| Foods Alive Organic Hemp Oil | This cold-pressed, organic hemp oil has a rich nutty flavor and is full of nutrients, including essential fatty acids. It’s produced in small batches in Canada. | $5.99 for 4 oz. |
How to choose a hemp oil
When choosing a hemp oil, always buy from a reputable manufacturer that’s clear about their practices and standards. They should be willing to answer any questions and provide appropriate documentation to support their claims. Many companies offer a money-back satisfaction guarantee.
Most quality hemp oils have been cold-pressed using a modern steel press. This process helps the oils maintain their full nutritional value, flavor, and aroma.
How to use hemp oil
Hemp oil can be taken orally in a few ways. To use hemp oil as a supplement, take one tablespoon per day.
It can also be added to salad dressings, soups, and sauces, or used in oatmeal, smoothies, and baked goods. Make sure you like the taste before adding it to a large serving of food.
Hemp oil can also be used topically as a moisturizer on its own or diluted with other oils, lotions, or hair products.
When used topically, you don’t need to wash off the hemp oil. It can safely absorb into your skin.
You can also use it as an oil cleanser. In this case, you do need to rinse it off after use.
Is hemp oil right for you?
When taking hemp oil orally, always start with a small dose and gradually increase the amount you take over a period of time, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.
If you have any medical conditions or take any medications, talk to your doctor before starting to take hemp oil.
Hemp oil is legal and doesn’t contain THC or CBD. It won’t cause you to feel “high” or test positive on any drug test. Hemp oil is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause digestive side effects, such as cramps, diarrhea, and nausea, in some people.
Using hemp oil on your skin may produce mild irritation. Always do a skin patch test before using hemp oil on your skin. To test for allergic reactions, place a small amount on the inside of your arm and wait 24 hours to see if any reaction occurs.
Be aware of how the oil affects you when used topically or taken orally. Adjust your use accordingly, and discontinue it if any adverse effects occur.
When used properly, hemp oil can be a healthy addition to your wellness and skin care routine. Choose a product carefully, and always follow the manufacturer’s directions.
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