There are distinct differences to consider when it comes to hemp oils and CBD gummies. Hemp oils lack CBD but are rich in nutrients, while CBD gummies contain cannabidiol and could even have THC. Our editors have evaluated hemp oil and CBD gummies to assist you in picking the option that suits your needs.
Is Hemp the Same as CBD or Cannabis? Not Exactly.
It’s important to note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate CBD products in the same way it does medications and supplements. This can lead some companies to use “hemp” and “CBD” interchangeably. However, there are significant distinctions between the two.
Where to Purchase Hemp Gummies and CBD Gummies
You can buy hemp and CBD gummies online or from select stores.
However, please be aware that the CBD gummies on Amazon are likely hemp gummies. CBD gummies cannot be purchased from Amazon due to their prohibition of CBD sales.
Are the hemp gummies on Amazon worth buying? Probably not. Many hemp gummies falsely claim to contain CBD or offer benefits only CBD can provide. For this reason, we won’t be featuring hemp gummies for purchase in this article.
If you want to consume hemp without CBD, consider seeking hempseed oil instead of hemp gummies. Several high-quality hempseed oils are available online or in stores, and we showcase two of them in this article.
However, if you’re interested in purchasing CBD gummies, buying directly from a reputable CBD company is best.
How We Selected the Best Hempseed Oils and CBD Gummies
Given the limited FDA regulations on CBD products’ quality and purity, we took extra precautions in choosing CBD gummies. We used specific criteria that serve as safety, quality, and transparency indicators.
Our Criteria for CBD Gummies
Every CBD gummy featured in this article:
⦁ It is manufactured by a company that provides evidence of third-party testing through an ⦁ ISO 17025-compliant lab.
⦁ It is produced by a company that discloses the origin of its hemp.
⦁ It contains no more than 0.3% THC, as indicated in the ⦁ certificate of analysis (COA).
⦁ Passes tests for molds, heavy metals, and pesticides, as stated in the COA.
As part of our selection process, we also took into account:
⦁ Company certifications and manufacturing methods.
⦁ Product potency.
⦁ Overall ingredients.
⦁ Indicators of user trust and brand reputation, such as:
⦁ Customer reviews.
⦁ Whether the company has received an FDA warning letter.
⦁ Whether the company makes unsupported health claims.
Our Criteria for Hempseed Oil
In choosing hempseed oils to feature, we considered products with the following:
⦁ Numerous positive reviews.
⦁ Transparent marketing that doesn’t mislead buyers into thinking they’re purchasing a CBD-containing product.
Comparing CBD and Hemp
Comparing Hemp and CBD Effects
Although CBD research is in its early stages, there’s promising potential for addressing concerns like insomnia and anxiety. Some individuals also use CBD to manage chronic pain, nausea, and depression.
Furthermore, Epidiolex, the first FDA-approved medication containing CBD, has been approved to treat certain rare forms of epilepsy.
Hemp gummies offer different effects than CBD because they lack CBD or THC content.
Nonetheless, hempseed oil might offer other advantages, such as aiding skin conditions like acne or psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also a nutritious option. However, it’s important to note that hempseed oil should not be expected to alleviate anxious thoughts or improve sleep duration and quality.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Hempseed Oil
Advantages
⦁ Nutrient-Rich: Hempseed oil is packed with essential vitamins and nutrients, including iron, calcium, and magnesium.
⦁ Skin Benefits: Its skin-soothing properties make it a potential option for topical use on the skin.
⦁ PMS Support: The gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content in hempseed oil might relieve cramps and related symptoms.
Disadvantages
⦁ No CBD: Hempseed oil doesn’t contain CBD. While this isn’t inherently negative, it can cause confusion, especially when some companies market hempseed products as CBD items.
How to Choose Between Hempseed Oil and CBD Gummies
When selecting a hempseed oil or CBD gummies, keep the following factors in mind:
CBD Source
For CBD products, it’s important to know the type of CBD used. There are three varieties:
CBD Isolate
⦁ Full-spectrum CBD
⦁ Broad-spectrum CBD
CBD isolate contains pure CBD without other plant cannabinoids. Opt for isolate if you want to avoid THC entirely. However, even CBD products can potentially have trace amounts of THC, which could be crucial for those undergoing drug tests.
The extraction process for CBD isolate may remove beneficial compounds like terpenes, affecting its potential health benefits compared to total- or broad-spectrum CBD.
Broad-spectrum CBD typically lacks THC, while full-spectrum products include it. The entourage effect suggests CBD and THC have more impactful results when consumed together.
Hempseed oil lacks CBD. Be cautious of products claiming to contain CBD but solely containing hempseed oil.
Additionally, if a CBD product doesn’t specify the type of CBD it contains, consider it a warning sign.
Examine the ingredients
When purchasing either hempseed oil or CBD, it is important to review the ingredient list. Hempseed oil usually contains just one ingredient, although flavoring might occasionally be added.
Always read the ingredients label if you have allergies. It’s safer to explore other options than to risk an allergic reaction.
Certain CBD gummies may include extra ingredients like lemon balm or melatonin to enhance effects or improve. Remember that the interaction between CBD and vitamins, minerals, or supplements is poorly well understood. Consulting a doctor before using a CBD product with such added ingredients.
For vegans or those avoiding artificial components, ensure that the ingredients align with your preferences.
Third-Party Testing
Hempseed oil might not undergo third-party testing, but this additional step can be beneficial.
In contrast, CBD products must include a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an independent third-party lab. Review the COA to confirm it covers the following:
⦁ Date: The COA should ideally be within the past year.
⦁ Potency: The CBD amount on the COA should match the product’s packaging. A slight variation is acceptable but shouldn’t exceed 10-20%.
⦁ Contaminant Testing: Ensure the product passes tests for heavy metals, pesticides, and molds, at the minimum.
⦁ CBD Safety and Side Effects
CBD doesn’t induce the same psychoactive effects as THC, but some individuals may experience mild side effects. These can include:
⦁ Diarrhea
⦁ Fatigue
⦁ Weight changes
⦁ Appetite alterations
Generally, CBD is considered safe for most individuals, excluding pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.
Before using CBD or hemp products, consult a healthcare professional or cannabis clinician. Interactions between CBD, hemp, and specific medications are possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Hemp Gummies the Same as CBD Gummies?
No, they’re not the same. Hemp gummies do not contain CBD; they consist of hempseed oil. Although hempseed oil offers some benefits, it’s important not to mistake it for CBD.
Can a Hemp Gummy Cause a ‘High’?
No, it can’t. Hemp gummies lack THC, so consuming one or more will not result in a “high.”
Which Is Better for Pain: CBD or Hemp?
Ongoing research is shedding light on CBD’s potential pain-relieving properties. While the understanding is still developing, current knowledge suggests that CBD might be helpful for certain types of pain.
In Conclusion,
To ensure a smart purchase of CBD products, it’s crucial to do your research.
Avoid falling for exaggerated marketing claims or vague descriptions. Remember, CBD gummies and hemp gummies are distinct.
CBD gummies, albeit pricier, offer potential benefits for various conditions. Hemp gummies, on the other hand, lack the effects of CBD gummies and are generally less costly. Finding a high-quality hemp gummy can be a challenge. If you’re seeking hemp’s advantages, opting for hempseed oil over hemp gummies is a better choice.
Before incorporating CBD or hemp into your routine, consult a healthcare professional for guidance.