As the names suggest, hemp seed oil comes from the seeds of the hemp plant and there are strict rules around which species can be used to produce the oil. For hemp seed oil, only the seeds of plant species which are Drug-Free. Hemp doesn’t have a glowing reputation in some circles and opinions around the world. Hemp often has psychoactive effects on users.
Hemp seed oil is a pretty good egg, it is a rich source of essential fatty acids and benefits health in a similar way to fish oil. Some benefits are balancing hormones and optimising hormone health, helping with menopause and PMS, as well as other hormone imbalance issues. It protects your heart against heart disease, and it is suggested to even prevent some forms of cancer. This is due to naturally occurring anti-inflammatories in the oil and its ability to also strengthen your immune system to help fight off the nasties. Finally, hemp seed oil is a natural appetite suppressant, helping with weight loss and also those nasty sugar cravings. I think I need to get me some of this stuff!
Hemp oil is a bit of a different story. It’s generally made using the leaves and flowers of the Cannabis sativa plant or marijuana. It can, and more often than not does, have high levels of THC. As we discussed earlier, THC increases the chance of users experiencing a psychoactive experience and is not always appreciated. However, this ingredient also gives the oil its super powers in relieving pain, anxiety and side effects of chemotherapy. So it’s the cannabinoid content that is the most useful, but unfortunately also brings the legality of the oil into question in some places around the world.
While production of hemp oil is faster and more economical for the producers than manufacturing hemp seed oil, the legal issues mean it’s not so easy to get your hands on. Some regions around the world are becoming more lenient and trialling medical uses, but be very careful with this, and know your local laws.
Hemp seed oil and hemp oil are VERY different…
If general health and vigour is your focus, hemp seed oil is definitely for you. It’s safe, legal and supports your healthy, active lifestyle.
If pain or anxiety reduction, or help during cancer treatment is your need, then hemp oil may help you. Be very careful if you are looking to purchase, import or use this oil, check if it’s ok to use in your region. The last thing you want are legal issues in this space to add to your problems!