Hemp extract is an oil derived from the stalks and seeds of the industrial hemp plant. This oil can be used for a variety of purposes, the most popular being consumed as a wellness supplement for the cannabinoids, phytocannabinoids, Cannabidiol (CBD) and more. Before we talk about what it can be used for though, let’s talk about some common misconceptions.
Common Hemp Extract Misconceptions
& LITTLE-KNOWN FACTS
There are some common misconceptions when it comes to hemp, especially due to the relation to its psychoactive cousin.
Does Hemp Extract or CBD get you high?
Absolutely not. In order to be legally considered hemp, the hemp plant must contain less than 0.3% THC. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive chemical compound found in cannabis. The 0.3% amount of THC is negligible and cannot produce a high. In fact, CBD is known to counteract the psychoactive properties of THC.
Hemp extract is not the same as Hemp Seed Oil or Hemp Protein or Hemp Seeds, like what you’d find in the grocery store.
You can buy hemp seeds and hemp seed oil in stores, but it is not the same as hemp oil extract. Oil extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant is extremely nutritious but does not contain phytocannabinoids, which are a part of a diverse class of chemical compounds. Hemp oil extract contains many phytocannabinoids including cannabidiol (CBD), which is being studied extensively for its beneficial properties. Hemp seed oil does not contain CBD. To learn more about the difference between hemp seed oil and hemp oil, visit this blog.
Properly sourced hemp oil can be sold in all 50 U.S. states. If sourced properly, hemp oil extract is legal to sell and purchase in all 50 states. Again, to be considered hemp, the cannabis plant must have less than 0.3% THC.
What does hemp taste like?
We’ve heard hemp described as good and bad tasting. The honest truth is…it depends on your personal preferences, just like any other food. If you don’t like earthy flavors, we suggest using a flavored product. Keep in mind, it’s not the flavor of the product, it is the benefit of the product. If the flavor is too pungent, you can also try capsules which have the product inside a small pill that you can swallow easily and leave virtually no flavor at all.
A Look Inside Hemp Extract
Hemp extract is a high-CBD, low-THC product which does not have intoxicating or psychoactive effects. CBD and THC are both phytocannabinoids found in the cannabis plant; it can sometimes be confusing to differentiate the two. The following infographic gives a better look at the differences between THC and CBD, as well as the differences between hemp and marijuana.
Endocannabinoids and the ECS
We’ve mentioned phytocannabinoids (cannabinoids derived from plants), but did you know that our body naturally produces cannabinoids? Endocannabinoids (cannabinoids produced by the body) support our endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is composed of a series of receptors located throughout the body. These receptors are labeled CB1 and CB2. The ECS helps regulate various biological processes, including homeostatic functions. Phytocannabinoids are very similar to endocannabinoids and it has been discovered that they also interact with the CB1 and CB2 receptors. With this discovery, it has been acknowledged that phytocannabinoids are an all-natural way to support the ECS.
Glossary of Hemp Terms
Hemp Extract
Oil extracted from hemp’s aerial plant parts, containing a natural blend of phytocannabinoids.
Hemp Oil
Hemp oil is used interchangeably with hemp extract, but be cautious: some companies use this term
when they really mean hemp seed oil.
Hemp Seed Oil
Oil extracted from hemp seeds (nutritious, but doesn’t contain phytocannabinoids).
Phytocannabinoids
Natural chemical compounds found in hemp extract that have been studied for various potential effects.
Endocannabinoids
Natural chemical compounds, similar to phytocannabinoids, that are produced by our own bodies.
Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
Series of receptors that interact with phytocannabinoids and endocannabinoids to maintain homeostatic functions.
Will hemp extract help me with….?
We are not doctors, so we can’t diagnose, treat, or prescribe for any ailment. However, there is a world of information at your fingertips. We encourage you to do research on hemp extract and determine the best fit for your wellbeing. If you are looking for a knowledgeable and friendly place to help you make the best decision for your CBD needs, come check out Thrive Hemp Store! We are located about 10 minutes east of Chattanooga and have the largest selection of amazing, 3rd party tested CBD products in our area. With a wide selection of options, you can find the best product to suit your needs and to stay within your budget. CBD choices can be overwhelming, but we can help you with that decision in a safe, warm, and welcoming environment located just inside of Thrive Yoga and Wellness.
This article originally appeared on MadeByHemp.com