For years, to most people, any mention of the hemp plant and its various extract would probably conjure up mental images of marijuana and its mind-altering properties. Actually, hemp is a plant with a number of different uses.
It can be used to make textiles, paper, building materials, and industrial products. It is also filled with amazing vitamins, minerals, and essential acids, and has a long list of scientifically proven benefits for the human body.
Two of the main derivatives which can be taken from the hemp plant – hemp seed oil and hemp extract (or CBD oil) – have become increasingly popular in recent years. Kim Kardashian, Mike Tyson, Mandy Moore, and Montel Williams are just a few of the celebrities who have been vocal about their use and appreciation of these highly helpful hemp extractions.
As the various uses of hemp begin to come more into the mainstream and more is understood about the science of hemp, it is becoming increasingly clear that this is a plant with a whole host of health-promoting properties.
Read on if you want to learn more about the amazing things that hemp can do for you, as well as the difference between its derivatives.
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Many people are unaware that hemp extract (also known as CBD oil) and hemp seed oil are not the same things. In reality, these are two completely different substances, each with its own unique properties and ingredients. Let’s take a look at the main differences between the two.
Hemp seed oil, as the name suggests, is derived exclusively from the seed of the hemp plant. It is made of cold-pressing hemp seeds, which do not contain any THC or cannabidiol (CBD).
Although hemp seed oil is rich in nutrients such as omega 3 fatty acids, amino acids, and antioxidants, because it is lacking in CBD it does not have some of the additional benefits that hemp extract boasts. It is most commonly used for skincare, haircare, or cooking.
Also commonly referred to as CBD oil, hemp extract is extracted from the flowers, stems, and leaves of the hemp plant. This is usually done through a process known as supercritical carbon dioxide extraction.
The main difference between hemp oil and hemp extract is that hemp extract does contain CBD (and sometimes trace levels of THC). Hemp extract is commonly used for stress relief, pain management, and as an anti-inflammatory.
Now that we’ve established the difference between the two, we’re going to be taking a closer look at just some of the many (and sometimes surprising) ways in which hemp extract and hemp seed oil can have a positive effect on the human body, from the inside out.
As surprising as it may sound, scientists have been showing great interest in the CBD component of hemp extract as a potential treatment for epilepsy. Studies carried out have found that CBD may be effective in preventing seizures in people suffering from neurological disorders.
A number of promising studies have taken place into this treatment, and the FDA has even approved a medicine containing CBD for the treatment of seizures.
Going through the different stages of life and growing older is a beautiful thing, but menopause can be an extremely difficult time for women. Their hormones and bodies go through a whole host of changes, some of which can have uncomfortable and undesirable side effects.
Scientists now believe that CBD can provide relief for women experiencing symptoms associated with times of hormonal imbalance, such as menopause or PMS. Anecdotal evidence from women suggests it can help to reduce mood swings, ease cramps, alleviate headaches, and more.
This will probably be one of the first things that will jump to people’s minds when they hear the words “CBD Oil“. A large percentage of today’s society regularly struggles with stress or anxiety and an increasing number of these people are turning to CBD for relief.
Many studies have shown that CBD has been effective in the treatment of anxiety disorders such as PTSD and the management of everyday stress. Though scientists are not yet sure how, it is thought that CBD interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain’s nervous system, producing a calming effect.
Here’s one you probably didn’t know: hemp can help to keep your heart healthy. The CBD contained in hemp extract has anti-inflammatory properties which, along with the antioxidants it contains, can help to lower blood pressure.
Even better than this, hemp seed oil is one of the best sources of omega 3 fatty acids out there. These healthy fats are essential to proper heart function and have been proven to be instrumental in reducing the risk of conditions such as heart disease and stroke.
The anti-inflammatory properties of the CBD found in hemp extract have proven effective when used on oil-producing glands, and scientists are conducting further research into it as a treatment for acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Hemp seed oil, meanwhile, has been proven to have a number of near-magical effects on the skin. The fatty acids and vitamins it contains are known to fight the signs of aging and keep skin looking supple and youthful.
Living with a chronic pain condition can be a constant battle, and sufferers often struggle to find ways to successfully relieve their symptoms.
A number of studies have been conducted into the use of CBD in the management of disorders such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and MS. Due to CBD’s unique ability to both relieve pain and reduce inflammation, many patients suffering from these conditions have found it to be an effective treatment.
Whether you’re a man or a woman, you may find yourself wanting to reap the benefits hemp can have on hair. It’s been shown that hemp extract can help to promote healthy hair growth by reducing inflammation in the scalp.
Hemp oil, on the other hand, contains those all-important vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. Studies have shown it can help to improve both hair diameter and density, making hair strong, shiny, and all-around more healthy.
Another surprising and important issue CBD is thought to help with is cognitive function. Specifically, with the symptoms of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.
These are heartbreaking and hard to treat conditions, and now new studies are showing that CBD works not only as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant in the brain but also as a brain stimulant. This can help in the management of some of the symptoms of these diseases.
Though it can be easy to underestimate its importance, getting a good night’s sleep is a vital part of maintaining good physical and mental health. Despite this, insomnia and trouble sleeping is thought to affect around one-third of all Americans.
There have been many studies into the efficacy of CBD as a treatment for sleep disorders, and the results are promising. It is well established that CBD can help to relieve stress and pain, both of which are leading causes of insomnia. But studies have found that CBD is also effective in the treatment of other sleep disorders, such as REM sleep behavior disorder.
There are a number of different ways that hemp extract can be either applied or consumed, depending on a person’s personal preference.
If it’s hemp seed oil you want, it can be found in many skin care products and shampoos. A list of some of the most popular brands can be found here.
In its pure form, hemp oil can also be used in cooking, and it is commonly sold as an essential oil for aromatherapy purposes.
If you’re looking for hemp extract or CBD oil, it is also available in a wide variety of formats. Some of the most popular include gummies, tinctures, and CBD capsules. Magical, a leading supplier of hemp-Derived CBD infused products, has a good selection on their homepage.
In addition to these tried and tested ways, novel new ways of consuming hemp and CBD are being thought up all the time. For example, this year even saw the launch of CBD infused sparkling water.
Hopefully, after reading this, you’re a little more enlightened about the wonders of hemp and its many applications. Hemp oil and hemp extract are both amazing, natural products, the benefits of which cannot be overstated.
If you’re interested in learning more about the ways in which hemp, CBD, or other all-natural resources can be used to help and heal the human body, please check out the range of different topics in our Health section today.
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