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

hemp-oil-vs-cannabis-oil

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 terms CBD oil, hemp oil, marijuana oil, and hemp seed oil interchangeably despite referring to different things.

To clarify, cannabis is a broad plant family that includes different varieties, such as sativa, indica, and ruderalis. Hemp is a variety of cannabis cultivated for its sturdy stalks and low THC content, while marijuana is generally used to describe cannabis plants high in THC.

Simply put, 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 in states where it is legal. Products made from industrial hemp have greatly different cannabinoid profiles and legal ramifications.

Cannabis vs Hemp vs Marijuana

Hemp vs. Marijuana: What is the Difference?

Humans have cultivated cannabis for thousands of years. The two primary types—hemp and marijuana—have distinct characteristics and uses.

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).

Aside from marijuana, there is also the amazing cannabis 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.

Hemp Oil vs Marijuana Oil - Healthy Hemp Oil.com

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).

THC is the main psychoactive component of cannabis that is responsible for causing a characteristic high, but it also has its potential health benefits, although not FDA-approved. 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 well-being, though studies are still underway to fully understand the possible benefits of CBD.

Comparing Hemp Oil vs. Marijuana Oil

Both hemp oil and marijuana oil come from the cannabis plant but serve different purposes.

What is Marijuana Oil?

Marijuana oil is created using extraction methods that isolate cannabinoids from marijuana buds. 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.

Please remember that marijuana oil is not FDA-approved for treating medical conditions in the U.S., and its legal status varies by state.

What is Hemp Oil?

Hemp oil is created from hemp strains that are high in CBD with only trace amounts of THC. As stipulated by the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp oil legally cannot contain more than 0.3 percent THC.

Hemp oil is derived from hemp seed oil or hemp plant extracts. It contains a rich nutritional profile, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and is widely used in natural supplements.

Note: Hemp oil that complies with the 2018 Farm Bill is federally legal in the U.S., but the FDA has not approved CBD for medical use outside of specific drugs like Epidiolex.

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.

1. Pain Relief

One of the most well-documented benefits of marijuana oil is its potential to help with chronic pain. Studies suggest that CBD oil interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain perception.

Marijuana oil is a possible option for those suffering from arthritis, nerve pain, and conditions like fibromyalgia. It may be particularly helpful for individuals who have not found relief from traditional pain medications. However, research on its effectiveness is still ongoing, and the FDA has not approved marijuana oil as a treatment or cure for any medical condition.

Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using marijuana oil, especially if you are managing a chronic condition or are currently taking medication.  

2. Appetite Stimulation

The THC content in marijuana oil has been shown to significantly boost appetite. Also known as the ’munchies’, this effect can help individuals suffering from nausea or loss of appetite due to medical conditions or treatments like chemotherapy.

Additionally, patients with conditions such as HIV/AIDS, eating disorders, or severe weight loss may benefit from cannabis oil uses that help regulate food intake and prevent malnutrition.

3. Improved Sleep

Many people struggle with insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns. Marijuana oil has been found to promote relaxation, helping users fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

4. PTSD and Anxiety Reduction

Research suggests that cannabis oil may help manage PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) symptoms by reducing anxiety, hypervigilance, and intrusive thoughts.

However, while low doses may reduce anxiety, higher doses of THC could have the opposite effect. Some patients find that a combination of CBD oil and THC content in full-spectrum oil works best for managing stress-related conditions.

5. Improved 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.

Hemp Oil Benefits

Hemp Oil Basics

Research into CBD and cannabis-derived compounds is ongoing. While some studies suggest potential benefits, the FDA has not approved hemp oil or CBD for medical treatments (outside of specific conditions treated by Epidiolex).

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

1. Better Sleep

Unlike marijuana oil, hemp oil may help regulate sleep cycles without causing drowsiness or grogginess. Studies suggest that CBD oil interacts with receptors in the brain responsible for relaxation, helping individuals fall asleep more easily and stay asleep longer.

2. Reduced Stress

CBD may provide an overall sense of comfort that helps people wind down and recharge after a difficult day.

3. Decreased Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is linked to various health conditions, including arthritis, autoimmune disorders, and muscle pain. Research suggests that cannabinoids found in hemp oil may help reduce inflammation by interacting with the body’s immune response.

While more studies are needed, some individuals report experiencing relief from joint stiffness and soreness after consistent use of CBD oil.

4. Improved Mood

A daily serving of CBD may offer a general sense of euphoria without any of the psychoactive effects of marijuana.

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

While marijuana oil offers various health benefits, its THC content can lead to some side effects, especially in high doses or for individuals sensitive to psychoactive compounds.

1. Cognitive Impairment and Short-Term Memory Issues

Marijuana oil affects the brain’s ability to process and retain short-term memories. Some users may experience forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating while under its influence.

2. Drowsiness and Fatigue

Marijuana oil is known for its sedative effects and may cause excessive drowsiness during the day. Users should be cautious when taking it before tasks that require focus, such as driving or operating machinery.

3. Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure Fluctuations

Some users may experience an increase in heart rate after consuming marijuana oil, particularly if they are new to THC content or take a high dose.

4. Potential for Dependency

While not as addictive as other substances, long-term use of marijuana oil can lead to dependency. Regular users may develop a tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same 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

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.

1. Digestive Issues

One of the most common side effects of hemp oil is digestive discomfort, including nausea, diarrhea, or bloating. This is often due to the high concentration of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids found in hemp seed oil. To avoid stomach discomfort, it’s best to start with a low hemp oil dosage and gradually increase as needed.

2. Blood Pressure and Blood Thinning Effects

Some studies suggest that CBD oil in hemp oil may have mild blood-thinning properties or affect blood pressure levels. Individuals on blood thinners or medications for heart conditions should consult a healthcare professional before using full-spectrum oil or high doses of hemp oil.  

3. Possible Drug Interactions

CBD oil can interact with certain medications, affecting how the body metabolizes them. Those taking prescription medications should consult a doctor before incorporating hemp oil into their routine to avoid potential interactions.

4. Allergic Reactions

Though rare, some individuals may have allergies to hemp seed oil or other compounds found in full-spectrum oil. Symptoms may include skin irritation, rashes, or mild respiratory discomfort. If any allergic reactions occur, discontinue use immediately.

Disclaimer: 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  

While marijuana is commonly smoked, consuming it in cannabis oil form offers several advantages. Marijuana oil provides a more controlled hemp oil dosage and allows for greater flexibility.

You can consume marijuana oil by

Adding it to Beverages: Marijuana oil can be mixed into teas, coffees, or smoothies for a discreet and easy consumption method.

Cooking and Baking: Many people infuse marijuana oil into recipes, such as brownies, cookies, or savory dishes. Doing this allows for a slow-release effect and eliminates the need for smoking

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. CBD Capsules are 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. Our CBD Oil Herbal Spray is a great example

Vape Oils: Oils 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.

Avoid vaping non-vape-specific oils. Hemp tinctures are not designed for vaping and may pose health risks.

CBD Topicals: Creams, Salves, Balms and Lotions are meant for external use only, offering a soothing, gentle experience.

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.

The legal status of cannabis oil varies by state. 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 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 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.

Final Thoughts

Both hemp oil and marijuana oil provide valuable health benefits, but their THC content and legal status of cannabis oil differ significantly. If you’re looking for natural supplements for everyday wellness, hemp oil is a great choice. However, for conditions requiring stronger effects, cannabis oil may be beneficial under professional guidance.

 

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!  Also, check out our wide collection of high-quality, industry-certified CBD products today.

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

40 thoughts on “Cannabis Oil vs Hemp Oil – What’s The Difference?

  1. Brian says:

    I am a business owner who is looking for something like the hemp oil you offer for my growing cancer patients list. The problem is that the market here in Vancouver Was dictates the price and companies from other areas just don’t get it. I wouldn’t consider buying anything for more than $25 an ounce wholesale.

  2. Amarnath says:

    here is a comment from a friend who lives in Colorado, has cancer & does use canabis~
    Zen Pig-Shunyadeva ~ “sorry my friend, but I downloaded the peer reviewed research on this topic. the THC is what Kills the cancer cells in blood cancers, (I researched three journal papers on this, two from the EU and one from America) while I agree that hemp oil without the THC is good for general health because of it’s omega oil balance being so close to what our bodies need, and this is good for the vast majority of folks. for this advertisement to suggest that the hemp oil without the thc is what will help with cancer is misleading, and will do harm to folks who really need this help. of course, I also understand that they want to sell there brand of hemp oil, so I suppose that is not good and not bad, as the Zen folks would say! LOL. zp”

        • Bobby Greenhash says:

          Its a degraded element of THC, it has no psycoactive effect, but will make you drowsy. Good for pain management. This normally occurs in weed/oils that have degraded with time, chemical reaction (as in the stomach, enzymes produced by the liver) or heat. Over decarbing can cause this degradation of THC Delta 9 into CBN. Hope this helps.

          • Bevan Terblanche says:

            Hi Bobby, Please can you send me a email regarding the medicine oils….need to save a life. bless

  3. KIRK SNYDER says:

    I would like information on treating late stage COPD. Jeff in Oklahoma has writen about how he was curred and no longer uses medication or oxygen. I can not find any additional proof of this but would like some guidence as my COPD condition is becoming worse and I would like some reliefe. thank you
    Kirk Snyder

    • Lindsey Gray says:

      Hi Robweevee, My name is Lindsey and I work with the Customer Support Team here at Healthy Hemp Oil. It may help you to know that the marijuana plant usually has higher levels of THC and lower levels of CBD while the hemp plant has higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC. I hope this helps. If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to send an e-mail to [email protected] and we would be happy to help.

    • Michelle says:

      It’s not higher or lower its different. But CBD from hemp oil is like a vitamin compared to CBD from cannabis. I can take 20mg from cannabis and 100mh from hemp oil and I’ll choose the 20mg.

      • Ahmad Yassine says:

        Hi Michel, what would be the right dosage of Hemp oil? Please advise, am trying to treat my pancreatic cancer and access to info about dosage of natural Med is not easy to find. My email: [email protected]

      • Haydee Judice says:

        Hi Michelle, can you take both? Also, I just bought Sour sop oil and would like to know if it’s okay to take it along with the Cannabis oil since they are both good for a few of the same ailments. Thanks for your info and I hope to hear from you soon. Namaste!

  4. Scott Tony says:

    wisdom My story has to do with the healing power of Rick Simpson cannabis oil.”My sister Khloe, age 65, was diagnosed with Bone Cancer on the inside of her backbone 2 years ago, which had metastasized from breast cancer she didn’t know she had. I prayed for a total healing with NO operation, no chemo and no radiation. not everyone has had the experience of knowing Rick Simpson as their Healer… but they can! Rick Simpson, father of all natural hemp.
    May the grace of God be upon you Rick for his good work and courage; and with his Hemp we are healed”. Early this year i traveled to U.S. to visit a good friend of mine when i heard that rick was around so i traveled to him and meet him one on one to purchase the healing oil from him,.. now am so happy and filled with joy that my sister is no longer a cancer patient and she’s completely healed with his miracle healing oil. The doctor himself confirmed to us on Tuesday last week that my sister Khloe is fully OK. No sign of cancer in her bone or breast again….Wow…Am so happy that my family and I have been thanking Rick for his good work of saving this world with his cannabis oil. Please people i don’t know how to thank him enough so am dropping his contact Email;([email protected]) i am begging if you can spear 5 minutes of your time and please help me to thank him, he is truly a hero of this world and i pray for God’s strength and upon him.

  5. The CANNABIS Shop says:

    It has to be made absolutely clear that under no circumstances is the CBD oil any replacement for the Rick Simpson oil. It is a different product that cannot possibly replace the full spectrum Rick Simpson oil.

    • Robin Gereck says:

      Rick simpson oil is just a process not a ‘type’ . The spectrum depends on the strain you use to make it. So, if your strain is a high CBD then your rso will be just that. Some strains, in fact most strains are not full spectrum any more. They are hybridized so some cannabinoids have been bred out. CBG is a perfect example of that.

  6. linda says:

    I have liken plantus. I have lost around 50 to 60 pounds because of the inside of my mouth. I don’t have that much more I can lose. It wouldn’t take that much for me to die. What should I use? No doctors in Va knows what to do . It took 9 doctors and dentists and 2 biopsies to be diagnosed.

    • Robin Gereck says:

      A strain like Trident that has CBG. It is the cannabinoid that reduces the pressure in the eyes.

  7. pete2554 says:

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  8. Nanga Rody says:

    ALCOHOL IS LEGALIZED BUT WHY IS MEDICATED MJ NOT LEGALIZED of which marijuana helps to cure of many illnesses incredible strong. such as treatment of terminal cancer, diabetes, pain, eczema, depression, anxiety, and many other conditions.

    We ship all of our orders within two days after receiving payment. We will notify you that your order has been shipped on the day we send it out. We use a unique “stealth” packaging that prevents customs from finding what’s inside, even if they open the package to inspect.

    PM vendor at (804) 410-4259 or [email protected]

  9. Bobby Greenhash says:

    The simple scientific fact of it, is that THC Delta9 and 11Hydroxyl THC are important as a catalyst that activates critical enzyme reactions within the Cannabanoids of the plant. Without it, the CBD is not as effective.

  10. Luanne Taylor says:

    great discussions here…I have a 76 year old mother that ends up in the hospital too often for digestive problems, chronic and severe, but not really Crohns…I suggested medical marijuana, it is now legal in our state, but how do you start? I decided to order some Hemp Oil (250mg)…is this enough for my mother to tell if it is helping?

  11. John Dave says:

    That is one deep information about CBD and Hemp Oil. I really like the blog. Generally, people get confused between Hemp oil and CBD Oil. This one of the best information about CBD to understand. I would like to share this link: https://www.whatiscbd.com/ to know more information about CBD.

  12. Kacy says:

    Help me stop pain so I can function daily! I’m in pain management! I have broken back and broken sacrum. Will I test positive for maryjuana if I use CBD pills for pain?? Im so sick of Oxycontin and oxycodone kacy

  13. Brandon Nolte says:

    I understand that dicing into CBD products may be a little intimidating, this is why we do have a recommended dose and way of consumption for all our products. If you have any questions you can always consult with our chat and phone agents!

  14. max says:

    Lots of good things about cannabis but how can it state that deaths related to cannabis are possibly related to car crashes (most of the time it s a combination of alcohol and cannabis) and it s a consequential death, or infants whose pregnant mothers used it during pregnancy! Where this is coming from? I would like to read and see supporting datas. Today we haven’t a recorded death caused directly by the use of the herb. Anyway you do spread the goods of the sacred plant. Thanks

  15. jschick says:

    Any randomly drug tested DOT workers able to use external Hemp Oils/Creams for pain relief and still test negative? I just started a new job with random testing and could use the pain relief, but am waaaay too scared of a positive test and losing my job. Hard data from experts on this subject would be greatly appreciated.

    • Brandon Nolte says:

      While the amount of THC in our products is negligible enough to be safe for consumption by pets and children trace amounts of THC are still present and we cannot guarantee that a positive test result will not be produced, this is unusual but there are a variety of tests meant to identify the presence of THC, some are very sensitive and others may search for any cannabinoids in the sample, including CBD which is active in all of our products.

      Because of this we generally advice to let your employer know about our products before taking them as to avoid a potential misunderstanding.

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