Schmidt's Hemp Seed Oil Deodorant texture sample on glass with peach backdrop

Photo courtesy of Moth Haus Design Studio/​Schmidt’s

The buzz around cannabis shows no signs of slowing down, and while the wellness world is becoming increasingly green-washed” with CBD in everything from lattes to dog treats, hemp is also re-gaining popularity. Indeed, hemp seeds have long been prized as a health-boosting topper for your oatmeal, as well as a serious skincare ingredient.

But within this serene, green world lies a lot of confusion. First thing’s first, hemp refers to a strain of cannabis grown for agricultural products and contain no psychoactive properties. This species can produce both CBD and hemp oil, but contains zero to .3% THC (that high-inducing cannabinoid). The marijuana strain is the one with THC, known for its psychoactive side effects.

While both CBD and hemp are derived from the same cannabis plant, their components — and, in turn, their effects, uses, and benefits — are all very different. Read on for a quick crash course in the difference. 

  • CBD, aka cannabidiol, is extracted from the leaves, flowers, and stalks of the cannabis plant. It has been known to act as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory that could help reduce pain and inflammation, and is now widely used in the treatment of sports injuries, muscle aches, arthritis, joint pain, nerve conditions, and headaches. It’s also touted as a panacea for inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and bug bites. When ingested, the apparent effects are said to be calming, and many people imbibe CBD to alleviate anxiety and insomnia. CBD has been isolated from the high-inducing compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the element in marijuana that gets you high”. The whole plant contains both CBD and THC.
  • Hemp oil (and hemp seed oil) on the other hand is derived from the seed of the cannabis plant, making it a completely different ingredient. Much of the confusion comes from dishonest companies trying to get away with marketing hemp seed oil as CBD, as it also goes by the name cannabis salvia oil — so be sure to read your labels! Hemp seed contains no CBD, THC, or CBN. What it does contain is plenty of antioxidants, vitamins and omega‑3 and ‑6 fatty acids, making it an excellent skincare oil. It can be used as a carrier oil (much like jojoba, coconut, and olive) as well as a topical moisturizer. It’s also known to be a nutritional powerhouse. Cold-pressed hemp oil can be added to smoothies and drizzled over salads; the seeds pulverized for a great protein powder, or eaten whole, sprinkled on just about anything.

Hemp seed oil won’t calm your anxiety or soothe your frozen shoulder. Instead, hemp seed oil is a fantastic addition to your wellness routine as a deodorant ingredient to help with a smoother glide, or to help moisturize skin and hair, and even help boost your diet. 

Interested in a hemp seed oil body product? Schmidt’s new Hemp Seed Oil collection is designed for sensitive skin and enriched with hemp seed oil for an application that is gentle on skin. Try our award-winning Rose+Black Pepper and Sage+Vetiver scents, or fan-favorite Patchouli+Hops.


Articles from The Natural should not be considered medical advice. If you have any questions about your health, please consult a medical professional.