Adults only (18+)

What Is Hemp Oil?

Hemp oil, also known as hemp seed oil, is made by cold-pressing the seeds of the hemp plant. These seeds are highly nutritious and rich in healthy fats, but they do not contain significant levels of cannabinoids such as THC or CBD. Hemp oil is typically used in cooking, salad dressings, and skincare products. It is legal in the UK and widely available in supermarkets and health food shops. The oil has a light, nutty flavour and is praised for its balanced omega‑3 and omega‑6 fatty acids, making it a popular addition to vegan and plant-based diets.

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD oil, or cannabidiol oil, is extracted from the flowers, leaves and stalks of the hemp plant, where most of the plant’s cannabinoids are found. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that has become widely used for wellness purposes. It is not the same as hemp oil, even though both come from the same plant. CBD products are often blended with carrier oils, such as MCT oil or olive oil, and are used in drops, capsules, or balms. In the UK, CBD oil is legal as long as it contains less than 1 milligram of THC per container and is marketed as a food supplement rather than a medicine.

How Can You Tell the Difference?

The key to distinguishing hemp oil from CBD oil is in the product labelling and ingredients list. If the product is labelled as cold-pressed hemp seed oil and contains no mention of cannabinoids or cannabidiol, it is likely a nutritional oil with no active CBD. On the other hand, a product that specifies a concentration of CBD, such as 500 mg or 1000 mg, is a CBD oil. It may still contain hemp extract, but its primary purpose is very different. Some less transparent brands use vague terms like “hemp extract” or “cannabis oil” which can be confusing. Checking the source of the oil and looking for a third-party lab report can help clarify the product contents.

Do They Have the Same Effects?

No, hemp oil and CBD oil have different uses and effects. Hemp oil supports general wellness through its nutritional profile, especially heart and skin health. It is not intended to provide specific therapeutic effects and does not interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. CBD oil, by contrast, does engage with this system and may influence mood, sleep, stress or pain perception. Although CBD is not a medicine and should not be marketed as one without authorisation, many people use it for personal wellbeing goals. These differences make the two oils complementary, but not interchangeable.

Are Both Oils Legal in the UK?

Yes, both hemp oil and CBD oil are legal in the United Kingdom, but they are regulated differently. Hemp oil is treated as a food or cosmetic product and can be sold freely without restriction. CBD oil must meet strict standards, including being derived from approved strains of industrial hemp, containing no more than trace levels of THC, and not being sold with any medical claims unless licensed as a medicine. Reputable CBD brands in the UK often register their products as novel foods and provide lab-tested evidence of compliance with safety and content guidelines.

What Should You Choose?

If you are looking for a nutritional oil to support a healthy diet, hemp seed oil is a safe and beneficial choice. It can be added to meals or applied to the skin for hydration. If your interest lies in plant-based supplements aimed at promoting general balance and wellbeing, CBD oil may be more appropriate. Always choose products from trusted sources, read the labels carefully, and be aware of what you are taking. Understanding the difference between the two oils ensures you get what you pay for and use them safely and appropriately.

Summary

Hemp oil and CBD oil are not the same. Hemp oil is made from the seeds of the hemp plant and is used primarily for its nutritional and cosmetic benefits. It does not contain cannabinoids like CBD or THC. CBD oil is extracted from the plant’s flowers and leaves, contains cannabidiol, and is used as a food supplement for personal wellbeing. Although both oils come from the hemp plant and are legal in the UK, they serve different purposes and should not be confused. Knowing what each product offers helps you make better decisions for your health and lifestyle.