Clearing the Confusion: Cannabis, CBD, and Hemp Oils Explained
Cannabis, CBD oil, and hemp oil – these terms tend to get used interchangeably, leading to confusion about what they are and their legal status. This article will explain the key differences between these three oils derived from the cannabis sativa plant.
Cannabis refers to the psychoactive drug made from the flowers and leaves of certain cannabis sativa strains that are bred to contain high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is responsible for the “high” feeling from cannabis use. Cannabis is the most commonly abused illegal drug in the UK.
Cannabis oil contains a high concentration of THC and can induce psychoactive effects if used. Like cannabis itself, cannabis oil is currently illegal to possess or supply in the UK. A positive drug test after using Cannabis Oil is possible.
CBD oil is extracted from cannabis sativa strains as well, but comes from hemp plants bred to be high in CBD (cannabidiol) and low in THC. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce a high. CBD oil is legal to buy and use in the UK and is growing in popularity for its reported health benefits. However, CBD oil is sometimes confused with cannabis oil.
Hemp oil comes specifically from hemp strains of cannabis sativa that contain very low levels of THC. Hemp oil is made by pressing only the hemp seeds, not the whole plant. Therefore, it contains neither THC nor CBD. Hemp oil is legal and may be found in health foods.
Hemp refers to cannabis sativa plants bred with low THC for use in textiles, CBD oil, nutritional benefits, etc. Hemp is fast-growing and hemp seeds and oils are legal.
The key difference lies in the THC content. Cannabis contains high levels of THC while hemp contains very low levels. CBD oil comes from hemp and contains less than 0.2% THC, making it legal. Cannabis oil has greater than 0.2% THC and is illegal in the UK. In recent years, there have been numerous reports of cannabis oils containing dangerously high levels of THC.
Cannabis use can lead to side effects like psychological disorders and dependency. CBD oil does not induce psychoactive effects but is popular due to its possible health benefits. Hemp oil from pressed seeds contains no THC or CBD and is used in food products.
Being aware of the differences between CBD, cannabis, and hemp oils allows you to make informed choices about these products. To be safe, always look for CBD oil made entirely from hemp to ensure legality and lack of psychoactivity. Only buy from reputable sources. Hemp oil itself will not provide CBD benefits. And avoid cannabis oil with illegal, high THC levels despite potential medical benefits. Knowing the differences enables proper usage.
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Zoom Testing is a leading UK drug testing company and a supplier of Drug Test Kits.
