The world of cannabis oil is often a very confusing place. Since CBD oil is all the rage right now, it seems like everyone has heard of it. You’ve likely heard a wide range of terminology used when it comes to cannabis oil… THC, CBD, cannabis, hemp, cannabinoids, marijuana. What do they all mean? Aren’t they all the same thing? The short answer to this is no, they are not.
Whether you are a current user of cannabis oil, are thinking about starting to use but want some clarification on things first, or even if you’re just a curious party wanting some info, read ahead. By the end of the article you’ll have that well-needed insight into all things cannabis oil.
What Is Cannabis Oil?
Cannabis oil actually refers to all oils derived from the cannabis plant. This term encompasses many different groups of products, that include but are not limited to:
- Hemp Seed Oils
- THC Oils
- CBD Oils
- Hemp-Derived Oils
Cannabis belongs to a plant family whose two primary species are indica sativa hybrid. The particular strain of plants within the species is an important factor for users of cannabis oils to consider. The biggest thing for users to remember is the difference between THC and CBD.
THC and CBD are two of the chemicals, or cannabinoids, found in cannabis plants.
- THC - This cannabinoid has intoxicating properties and is the most well-known of the two. THC use induces a “high” feeling for users that is widely known and associated with marijuana use. Its use is also associated with other mental health issues including paranoia. THC such as delta 8 thc psychoactive properties can be found at high levels in marijuana plants for recreational use, but low levels in hemp plants.
- CBD - This cannabinoid has been proven to not have the intoxicating properties that THC does. It can be found in high levels in the hemp plant, which in turn has low levels of THC. Because CBD is considered non-intoxicating, it is not thought to be addicting and widely accepted as being generally safe to use.
THC oils are mostly derived from the recreational strain of plant (marijuana), while industrial hemp is typically the strain of choice for CBD oil manufacturing. Marijuana plants main purpose is that of recreational use. It is not as versatile as the hemp plant, whose fibres have many industrial uses such as making rope, textiles, paper or even biofuels.
Oftentimes in countries where THC is legal you will see the term “cannabis oil” referring to products containing high amounts of THC. The term “hemp oil” is commonly used to refer to products with low levels of THC but high amounts of CBD.
If you hear someone referring to cannabis oil, they could be talking about something in any group of these products which means you need further information. Remember that cannabis is a blanket term. The thing you want to look for are the terms THC or CBD to help you understand the contents of the product being discussed.
Important Facts To Remember About Both THC and CBD Oils:
There are many things you should keep in mind before you head off to shop for any type of cannabis oil. Making informed decisions is the key to any successful purchase and the purchase of cannabis oil should not be treated any differently, especially considering it is something you are going to be putting into your body. Be smart and know your facts.
1. THC Oil - Know The Facts
- THC Oils are typically used to achieve a “high” that can last for many hours as compared to short lived highs that result from smoking marijuana.
- THC Oils are generally derived from the marijuana plant.
- Confusingly enough, THC oils can contain CBD, however, the THC content will be much higher.
- The legally allowable levels of the presence of THC in a product are typically 0.3% (with the exception of the UK which is 0.2%). THC oils will have far greater amounts in them which makes them widely illegal.
- THC Oils are not highly marketed for their high THC content due to the likelihood that recreational cannabis is still illegal in the marketing area, as it is in most parts of the world.
- Since the THC Oil is widely illegal, the market is unregulated and you may end up with a product containing less than desirable content levels.
- Cannabis oil can be used as a catch all phrase and sometimes refers to THC oil.
2. CBD Oil - Know The Facts
- CBD oils are typically used to achieve an overall feeling of relaxation and calm.
- CBD oil is sometimes referred to as hemp oil because it is derived mainly from the hemp plant.
- Just as THC oils can contain CBD, CBD oils can contain THC, however, the THC content will be much lower.
- The legally allowable levels of the presence of THC in a product are typically 0.3% (with the exception of the UK which is 0.2%).
- Some CBD oils on the market known as Broad-Spectrum CBD guarantee a 0% THC level.
- CBD oils do not have psychoactive effects, meaning they do not result in a “high” and are not used for recreational purposes.
- Cannabis oil can be used as a catch all phrase and sometimes refers to CBD oil.
- When shopping for CBD oils, you’ll want to look for bottling or packaging that refers to its content in milligrams (mg). Other types of measurement (percentages, etc) can be confusing when you’re trying to keep track of dosing.
- Reputable brands will offer third-party lab test results to prove the chemical profile of each batch of CBD oil. These results are paramount in showing the quality of a product.
Trusted manufacturers always subject their oils, whether THC or CBD, to third-party testing that ensures the levels of each cannabinoid are just right. Third-party testing is yet another step taken to show users a product is of good quality.
Remember, cannabis oils are not all the same. Choosing what type is best for your situation depends on your desired effect. Consider keeping legalities in mind when purchasing your product. Hopefully this article contained enough information for you to make an informed decision. If not, keep seeking out more knowledge!
For more questions about CBD products, the differences between hemp and marijuana, and more, visit the best CBD oil UK: Blessed CBD on the web. Their FAQ section contains a wide range of helpful information. BlessedCBD is a small family business offering certified organic processes, third-party testing, and CO2 extraction practices to ensure the highest quality of CBD oils, creams and gummies.
Read some Blessed CBD reviews below:
- https://observer.com/2019/12/best-cbd-oils-in-the-uk-blessed-cbd/
- https://www.readersdigest.co.uk/health/wellbeing/cbd-oil-uk-the-8-best-cbd-oils-in-the-uk-reviewed
- https://www.discovermagazine.com/health/cbd-oil-uk-discover-the-8-best-cbd-oils-in-the-uk-2020
- https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/life/1278641/best-cbd-oil-uk
- https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/special-features/best-cbd-oil-uk-21953049
- https://www.ibtimes.com/cbd-oil-uk-3023877