Cannabis Oil vs Hemp Oil – What's The Difference?

Hemp Oil vs Cannabis Oil

Cannabis oil is a thick liquid extracted from the cannabis plant for its medicinal properties. It is usually taken orally. There is a lot of confusion about the cannabis plant. People use the words “cannabis,” “hemp,” “marijuana,” and others interchangeably despite referring to different things.

Cannabis is a plant family that includes many species, including sativa, indica, and ruderalis.
Hemp is a variety of cannabis grown for its tall, sturdy stalks and high CBD levels.
Marijuana is technically an alternate name for the cannabis plant, most often used to refer to a preparation of the drug. Marijuana consists of the dried leaves and stems of the cannabis plant and tends to be higher in THC levels.

Simply put, hemp is a variety of cannabis with low THC levels. All hemp is cannabis, but not all cannabis is hemp.

This distinction is especially important if you are looking to buy the best cannabis products. Products made from industrial hemp have greatly different cannabinoid profiles and legal ramifications. Learn more below.

Hemp vs. Marijuana: What is the Difference?
Benefits of Cannabis Oil
Side Effects of Cannabis Oil
How to Use Cannabis Oil
Frequently Asked Questions

Hemp vs. Marijuana: What is the Difference?

Cannabis plants have been cultivated and harvested by humans for thousands of years.
The cannabis plant family includes many different plant types, but none is as controversial (and undeservingly infamous) as marijuana.

Marijuana (or Cannabis sativa by its Latin name) is a bushy, short plant particularly loved for its sticky glands. These glands are called trichomes, and they produce THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is a psychotropic substance responsible for giving users a characteristic high, though it has its own potential benefits to your everyday health.

Aside from marijuana, there is also the amazing hemp plant. Hemp can grow tall and is used mostly for industrial purposes. The fibers of hemp trees are tough, and the oil made from hemp seeds has many uses.

Physical Differences of Marijuana and Hemp Plants

We know that hemp and marijuana are not completely different plants. They are varieties of the same species: the cannabis plant family.

We also know the two varieties have several significant differences. These range from how they grow and look to how they are used and the chemical compounds in their extractions. For instance, hemp grows up to 15 feet tall with long, massive stalks. Marijuana grows outward with more leaves and buds and rarely exceeds five feet tall. Industrial hemp plants also seem to grow comfortably closely packed together while each marijuana plant requires some space to grow.

The most significant difference is in the chemical compounds, or cannabinoids, within each plant.

Main Chemical Differences in Cannabis Oils

There are close to 400 cannabinoids in both cannabis and hemp. The two most active and abundant cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Understanding these two cannabinoids is the key to making the right decision when it comes to choosing between marijuana and hemp oils.

THC is the main psychoactive component of cannabis that is responsible for causing a characteristic high, but it also has its own potential health benefits. However, some people may be sensitive to THC, resulting in some unwanted side effects. CBD is more associated with potential wellness benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC. In recent years, CBD has attracted more attention from researchers and experts for its potential to improve health and wellbeing, though studies are still underway to fully understand the possible benefits from CBD.

Hemp Oil vs. Marijuana Oil

The oil extracted from hemp and marijuana plants usually contains both THC and CBD but in varying amounts. Marijuana usually contains 5-10% THC, though certain strains may contain more. As stipulated by the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp oil legally cannot contain more than 0.3 percent THC.

What is Marijuana Oil?

Marijuana oil is a liquid produced by extracting THC and CBD from marijuana buds using a solvent. The buds release their fat-soluble compounds (including cannabinoids like THC and CBD) into the solvent, and the mixture is boiled down into marijuana oil.

This type of cannabis oil generally contains high amounts of THC, lower amounts of CBD, and a variety of other beneficial cannabinoids found in marijuana. The extraction is a long process, requiring high-quality marijuana buds and a good solvent.

What is Hemp Oil?

Hemp oil is created from hemp strains that are high in CBD with only trace amounts of THC. This ensures that you won’t get psychoactive effects from hemp oil but still enjoy the health benefits of CBD.

Hemp oil is rich in CBD, along with a nutritious balance of omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids and linoleic acid. These are essential fats that our bodies need to function properly.

Benefits of Cannabis Oil

Marijuana Oil Benefits

In the last few decades, scientists have made immense progress in discovering the many health benefits of marijuana oil. Marijuana oil has been proven to:

Stimulate Appetite: Marijuana oil was cited in a 2007 study to increase the appetite of anorexia patients and patients suffering from nausea.
Improve health in Asthma Sufferers: Inhaling marijuana vapors has been shown to improve air conductivity in the lungs, making it a promising future treatment for asthma. It mainly works as a bronchodilator.
Reduce Stress: Long-term studies on war veterans have shown that marijuana can reduce the effects of PTSD. Another study suggested that marijuana can reduce anxiety and fear.
Reduce pain: Marijuana can reduce physical pain. A single dose has been shown to reduce pain levels in people suffering from post-surgical neuropathic pain.
Improve Sleep: Since marijuana has been shown to reduce stress and pain, it can help certain individuals sleep better thanks to the relaxation and comfort it provides.

Modern science still hasn’t discovered all the potential benefits and uses of marijuana oil, but medicinal marijuana is already in use helping people suffering from chronic pain, chemotherapy side effects, and stress-related ailments.

Hemp Oil Benefits

Studies on the effects of CBD in hemp oil have shown some promising results, including:

Better Sleep: CBD can have a mild relaxing effect that may support improved sleep without causing drowsiness.
Reduced Stress: CBD may provide an overall sense of comfort that helps people wind down and recharge after a difficult day.
Decreased Inflammation: CBD has been shown to naturally help against inflammation, though again, more studies are needed to verify these claims.
Improved Mood: A daily serving of CBD may offer a general sense of euphoria without any of the psychoactive effects of marijuana.

Comparison of Hemp Oil vs Marijuana Oil Benefits

Both hemp oil and marijuana oil have the potential to reduce stress, improve sleep, and relieve pain. But hemp oil works more to improve general quality of life, while medicinal marijuana is often prescribed for specific ailments, such as reducing chronic pain or managing the side effects of chemotherapy. Hemp oil may help to reduce inflammation and relax the body without any of the psychoactive effects associated with marijuana, though our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical conditions. Ultimately, both marijuana and hemp require further study to fully understand their potential benefits, their interactions in the human body, and the mechanisms of action involved.

Side Effects of Cannabis Oil

As with most beneficial substances, both marijuana oil and hemp oil can come with side effects.

Marijuana Oil Side Effects

When used at a young age, marijuana may alter brain function. It is not advised to take marijuana under the age of 18 unless a physician advises otherwise.

Adults who use marijuana may experience slightly reduced memory function and a lowered ability to think, concentrate, and learn while the THC is active.

Marijuana should never be mixed with other medication without consulting your physician. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not take any marijuana products.

You should not drive or work with heavy machinery or dangerous tools while under the influence of THC.

Despite these side effects, marijuana is generally safe and rarely causes complications when used under the guidance of a medical professional. Even though marijuana is listed as a dangerous drug, there have been no direct fatalities recorded.

Hemp Oil Side Effects

Since hemp oil contains only trace amounts of THC, it has far fewer reported side effects than marijuana.

Hemp oil is rich in polyunsaturated fats, which may lead to cardiovascular problems in large amounts. You can easily avoid that by only ingesting the correct serving of hemp oil daily.

Another possible side effect is diarrhea or stomach cramps. If you experience these side effects or have a sensitive digestive system, consider reducing your serving size.

If you suffer from blood clotting problems, you should ask your doctor before taking CBD oil. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not consume hemp oil.

Comparison of Cannabis Oil vs Hemp Oil Side Effects

Although both oils are generally safe for use, the main difference between hemp oil and marijuana oil comes down to the THC content, which contributes to their different side effects. Marijuana’s THC content naturally contributes to more potential side effects related to memory, learning, and general cognition, which invariably means you shouldn’t be doing anything important, operating heavy machinery, or driving after taking marijuana oil.

By comparison, hemp oil has far fewer side effects. Most side effects are related to hemp oil’s high polyunsaturated fat content, which may contribute to heart disease and digestive problems, but only if you are ignoring serving recommendations.

How to Use Cannabis Oil

How to Use Marijuana Oil

Marijuana is usually smoked, but ingesting it in oil form has some serious benefits, including:

Incorporation into beverages
Great to cook and bake with
More precise serving sizes

If you’re looking to make some delicious baked marijuana goodies, cannabis oil is the way to go. The oil form is also preferred for:

Children who need to take medicinal marijuana
Those who don’t like smoking
Anyone with a pre-existing respiratory condition

Marijuana oil takes a bit longer to work than smoking but can offer just as much of a high.

Medicinal marijuana is usually ingested using syringe applicators or self-filled capsules. If you’re taking marijuana oil for medical reasons, make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions.

How to Use Hemp Oil

When it comes to hemp oil, there are many fun and pleasant ways to get your daily serving. Hemp oil can be ingested as is, ensuring that you get a steady, strong serving every time.

Some of our favorite CBD oil products include:

CBD Oils: This is the simplest form of CBD oil, also known as raw oils, for when you want a simple hemp product. You can also get them in concentrates that contain more CBD in less liquid.
Capsules: Great for when you want a very specific or stronger serving of CBD. Also good if you want your hemp oil to be flavorless and easier to take.
Hemp Spray: A fun little bottle of CBD oil that you can spray directly on your tongue and enjoy. This CBD Oil Herbal Spray is a great example.
Vape Oils: These are perfect to use in vape pens. They come in many exotic flavors or in a simple hemp flavor.
Vape Additives: You can add these to your favorite vaping liquid to infuse them with healthy CBD.
CBD Topicals: Creams, Salves, Balms and Lotions are meant for external use only, offering a soothing, gentle experience.
Hemp Chocolates: If you love chocolate and hemp then these amazing Tasty Cocoa CBD Chocolates will become your new favorite treat.

Difference in using Hemp Oil vs Marijuana Oil

Both hemp and marijuana products are available in a variety of different forms, from oils and tinctures to edibles and chocolates. The main difference comes down to accessibility.

Marijuana products are not legal in every state, and many states that do allow for medical marijuana require documentation or a card from your doctor. Usage also depends on what you want out of the product. You can’t use most forms of marijuana without getting high.

Hemp products are mostly comprised of CBD with a fraction of a percent of THC (if any at all). This makes hemp oil more versatile for everyday use. Along with tinctures and oils, hemp is available in the form of capsules, edibles, chocolates, topical creams and more. Hemp oil is also great to cook with, and the wealth of products make measuring out and controlling serving sizes much easier. Hemp oil can also be used in vapes, but make sure you specifically get a hemp vape oil. A regular hemp oil or tincture is too thick to burn properly in a vape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Hemp Oil Contain THC?

Yes, hemp oil contains tiny traces of THC. The amount is so small, though, that you won’t get any of the effects of THC. Hemp oil won’t get you high or cause any psychotropic effects.

What Is the Difference Between Hemp and Cannabis?

Hemp is a plant in the cannabis family. Cannabis is a plant family that includes many species, including both hemp and marijuana.

What Is the Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana?

Marijuana is a short, bushy plant with buds that contain around 10-20% THC. Hemp is a tall plant that contains very little THC but has a lot of CBD in its seeds and stalks.

What Is Hemp Oil?

Hemp oil is an oil extracted from the seeds and stalks of the hemp plant. It is a highly nutritious and natural oil that contains high amounts of CBD as well as omega 3, omega 6, and linoleic fatty acids. Hemp oil contains almost no THC and is extracted directly from the plant, making it different from marijuana oil.

Is Hemp Oil the Same as Cannabis Oil?

No. When people say “cannabis oil,” they usually mean marijuana oil. Although hemp oil is a type of cannabis oil, what is usually sold as cannabis oil is not the same. Usually, oil marketed as “cannabis oil” is rich in THC and will give you a high. Hemp oil contains little THC and won’t give you a high.

Is Hemp Weed?

No. Although both weed (a.k.a. marijuana) and hemp belong to the same plant family, they have been bred to be quite different. Hemp has been cultivated to produce tough fibers and nutritional oil while weed is cultivated mostly for its psychotropic effects and medicinal use.

Does Hemp Contain THC?

Yes, the hemp plant does contain small amounts of THC. However, when the oil is extracted from the seeds and stalks only, it contains tiny amounts that are too insignificant to have any effect on the human body.

What Is Marijuana Shatter?

Marijuana shatter is a thin, glassy slab of marijuana extract that is usually transparent and very high-quality. Depending on temperature and terpene content, the shatter can be a tad sticky or completely solid.

What Is Marijuana Wax?

Marijuana wax is a non-transparent marijuana extract that is solid and opaque. The wax can be gooey (budder) or brittle (like a honeycomb).

What Is the Difference Between Cannabis Oil and Hemp Oil?

The main difference is that marijuana oil (cannabis oil) gets you high, and hemp oil doesn’t. Cannabis oil (marijuana oil) is rich in THC while hemp oil is very low in THC and high in CBD.

If you have any more questions about Cannabis Oil vs Hemp Oil or the differences between hemp and marijuana, please leave us a comment below!

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products sold by Healthy Hemp Oil are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on our website is intended to provide general information regarding our products and is not to be construed as medical advice or instruction. Read more

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Cannabis Oil vs Hemp Oil – What’s The Difference?