CBD is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the Cannabis sativa plant, and it’s present in both hemp and cannabis.
Hemp-derived CBD containing less than 0.3% THC is federally legal and most states. Cannabis-derived CBD, on the other hand, contains more than 0.3% THC and is federally illegal.
While CBD products derived from hemp can be purchased online and are available nationwide, CBD products derived from cannabis are limited to states with medical marijuana laws.
Here we’ll take a look at both to determine which may be the better choice for your personal wellness needs.
What You’ll Discover
- CBD from hemp and cannabis is the same molecule, but hemp CBD must contain 0.3% THC or less to be federally legal, while CBD from cannabis contains more than 0.3% THC and is considered a controlled substance.
- CBD is extracted from both hemp and cannabis using a variety of different extraction methods, including CO2, ethanol, solvents like butane, and more. It then goes through further processing to remove any unwanted plant compounds.
- It’s essential to purchase third-party tested products with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) that shows cannabinoid levels, as any CBD product with more than 0.3% THC is illegal under federal law.
CBD from Hemp vs. Cannabis Plants
CBD (cannabidiol) is one of 125 cannabinoids in cannabis that have been discovered to date. It’s gained massive popularity over the past ten years for its potential therapeutic benefits.
It’s present in both hemp and cannabis varieties of the cannabis sativa plant, but the source of CBD makes a big difference in terms of THC content and legality.
While hemp and cannabis are slightly different, the main difference between the plants can be found in their legal definitions.
According to federal law, hemp plants must contain no more than 0.3% THC [1]. Any cannabis plant that contains more than this amount is considered marijuana, which is sometimes referred to as cannabis.
While this distinction may seem small, it’s everything when it comes to distinguishing hemp-derived CBD products from recreational marijuana.
The Legal Landscape of Hemp CBD vs Cannabis CBD
The 2018 Farm Bill revolutionized the hemp industry. Not only did it legalize hemp, it legalized its cultivation and manufacturing of hemp-derived CBD products [1].
Under the Farm Bill, hemp-derived CBD products containing 0.3% or less THC on a dry weight basis became federally legal.
That said, any CBD product containing more than 0.3% THC is considered a controlled substance and is illegal at the federal level.
How CBD is Extracted From Cannabis
To become the CBD oil used in tinctures, edibles, vape pens, and other products, it must first be extracted from the cannabis plant itself.
CBD can be extracted from both hemp and cannabis using the following methods [2].
- CO2 extraction: This method involves using carbon dioxide (CO2) compressed into a supercritical state where CBD oil can then be extracted from the plant material.
- Solvent extraction: Using solvents such as butane, hexane, or propane, CBD is extracted from hemp or cannabis plants.
- Ethanol extraction: Extracting CBD with ethanol is done by soaking plant material in ethanol, which then evaporates to leave CBD oil.
- Oil extraction: Oil extraction, sometimes referred to as lipid extraction, involves using coconut or olive oil to extract CBD.
Hands down, CO2 extraction is the most popular method of pulling CBD from hemp and cannabis plants. It’s considered the most efficient and cleanest way to extract CBD and preserve cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial plant compounds.
Solvent extraction is also common, however, involves further refinement to ensure no potentially harmful residual solvents are left in the oil.
Ethanol is often used, but not as commonly as CO2 or solvent extraction. Oil extraction is the least popular extraction method, typically reserved for individuals extracting their own CBD oil at home.
Understanding Cannabinoid Content
While there are well over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis, cannabinoid content in hemp and cannabis varies. This is due to genetic profiles and factors like light, temperature, and nutrients used to cultivate cannabis plants.
Cannabinoids in both hemp and cannabis are initially formed as what’s known as cannabinoid acids. It’s only when they undergo a process known as decarboxylation, which uses heat, do they turn into active cannabinoids like CBD and THC.
Interestingly, cannabinoid content varies depending on whether cannabis is grown indoors or outdoors [3]. Research has discovered that outdoor cannabis plants have similar primary cannabinoid levels to indoor plants, however, contain higher levels of CBCA (cannabichromenic acid) and THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) [4].
This is important when it comes to understanding cannabinoid content because CBGA (cannabigerol acid) is the precursor to CBDA, CBDA, and CBCA. The CBD oil that is widely available goes through a complex process to become the products we use. The hemp seeds are harvested after 70-140 day, dried and cured, then extracted by the methods above. The concentration of THC can have a significant impact on the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD products
and[5]. While there is preliminary evidence that supports the potential of CBD to support a variety of conditions, there’s also evidence to support that THC may enhance CBD’s potential benefits.
A theory that suggests cannabis plant compounds like cannabinoids and terpenes may work harmoniously together to offer an enhanced effect compared to their isolated counterparts
.
Although the legal limit of less than 0.3% THC might not seem like much, experts agree that it may help enhance the potential benefits of hemp CBD products.
Psychoactive vs. Non-Intoxicating Effects
Perhaps the most significant difference between hemp CBD and cannabis CBD is that hemp-derived CBD doesn’t contain the intoxicating effects associated with THC. THC has a strong affinity for CB1 cannabinoid-receptors. This mediates the majority of THC’s psychoactive effects. CBD, on the other hand, does not bind to CB1s. CBD, on the other hand, does not bind to CB1 receptors, which is why it doesn’t cause intoxication
.[6]There’s also evidence to suggest CBD may reduce some adverse effects.[7]Despite the fact that THC causes psychoactive effects, some consumers prefer THC products because of their potential therapeutic effects.
How to Choose High-Quality CBD Products[8]Not all CBD products are created equal, and knowing what to look for when choosing high-quality CBD is paramount to a positive experience.
The best CBD comes from organically grown, CBD-rich hemp plants known for their high quality and potency. When choosing CBD products, it’s recommended to purchase from brands that offer information about how and where the hemp plants used to create their products are grown.
Because the hemp industry is, to an extent, still unregulated, the only way to determine what’s in your products is through third-party lab testing. It’s not required, but reputable, trustworthy brands will offer lab reports for all their products.
Unfortunately, discrepancies have been found in many CBD products, with actual CBD levels not matching those advertised on the label. Lab tests for potency are a way to ensure that the product you buy is what it says on the label, and contains less than 0.3% THC. These are known as full-panel lab tests and ensure CBD products are free from things like heavy metals, residual solvents, pesticides, microbes, mold, and more.[9]Third-party lab test results are typically offered in what’s known as a Certificate of Analysis (COA). The majority of brands include COAs in their product pages or on their websites. If you find a CBD product you’re interested in that hasn’t been third-party tested, we recommend you look for another product that has.
Hemp vs. Cannabis CBD[10]Both hemp CBD and cannabis CBD contain potential benefits that are used for various conditions.
Currently, Epidiolex is the only CBD-derived medication approved by the FDA. It is used to treat seizures caused by rare and intractable epilepsy known as Lennox Gastaut syndrome or Dravet Syndrome
.
CBD from cannabis contains more THC than the federally allowed limit of 0.3%. These CBD products are available in states with medical or recreational marijuana laws.
They usually have a high CBD content and a low THC ratio. Keep in mind, however, that cannabis-derived CBD with more than 0.3% THC is federally illegal.
While CBD is considered safe, it may cause side effects in some users. CBD users are most likely to experience dry mouth, diarrhea and drowsiness. They may also feel drowsy, lose weight, or have reduced appetite. CBD may lessen the effects of certain medications
. This is why it’s always recommended to speak with a healthcare provider before taking hemp-derived or cannabis-derived CBD if you take other medications.
Wrapping Up
At the end of the day, both hemp and cannabis CBD have their unique potential benefits. Understanding the differences between the two, including their THC content, extraction methods, cannabinoid profiles, and legality, is vital when choosing CBD products.
Keep in mind that while hemp-derived CBD is federally legal, cannabis-derived CBD is federally illegal and only permitted for use in states with medical marijuana legalization or where cannabis is legal for recreational use.
Despite whether CBD comes from hemp or cannabis, it’s vital to purchase high-quality, third-party lab-tested products derived from organically grown cannabis plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cannabis CBD the same as hemp CBD?[1]Cannabis CBD is different than hemp CBD, as it’s derived from cannabis (marijuana) plants and contains more than the federally legal limit of 0.3% THC. CBD does not produce the same psychoactive effect as cannabis. CBD is extracted using a variety of methods, including CO2, solvents like butane, propane, ethanol and oil extraction. The extraction of CBD from hemp and cannabis plants is done using CO2, solvents such as butane and propane, ethanol, and oil extraction.
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