If you're interested in the latest wellness trends, you're likely to have heard about hemp and CBD oils. CBD oil has been linked to a wide range of potential health benefits, including pain relief and mental health. At the same time, hemp oil is a 'good fat', super-rich in Omega 3, 6 and 9.

So what's the difference between the two? To begin with, both oils are derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. And that means both CBD oil and hemp oil contain cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), plus over 500 other phytochemicals. But hemp oil generally contains higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC than CBD oil.

Are you feeling confused? Let’s take a deeper look at the benefits of both hemp and CBD so you can judge what's the best fit for you.

Hemp Oil

Hemp has been grown for hundreds of years. Traditional uses include making sails, rope and clothing.

But hemp also has 25 times higher levels of omegas than olive oil and 40% less saturated fat. An oil with a raft of nutritional benefits associated with Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. In addition, the ratio of linoleic acid (omega 6) to alpha-linolenic acid (omega 3) is 3:1, which research has found ideal for promoting health benefits in adults.

Benefits of Hemp Oil

Omega 3 or alpha-linolenic acids are associated with a raft of potential health and wellbeing benefits. These include reducing blood pressure and risk factors for heart disease. Upping your Omega 3 intake could also support a healthy pregnancy.

Omega 6 fatty acids work together with omega 3s to promote heart health and boost circulation. They also reduce 'bad' LDL cholesterol and boost 'good' HDL levels. And they contain anti-inflammatories that can produce clear skin.

Omega 9 fats are non-essential fatty acids that your body manufactures itself. However, supplementing your omega 9 intake with hemp oil could benefit your health by reducing inflammation and sensitivity to insulin.

Why not increase your omega intake with our hemp-derived CBD infused bean to bar chocolate?

CBD Oil

There's a real buzz around CBD oil, and some big claims have been made about its potential benefits for health and wellbeing. However, if you're new to CBD oil, it's important to be aware that some claims aren't yet backed up by scientific evidence.

Most CBD products, like our CBD infused coffee range, use CBD oil derived from hemp. It's naturally high in CBD and contains only minuscule traces of psychoactive THC. So CBD oil won't get you high, but it can help restore your body's natural balance.

Benefits of CBD Oil

To understand some of the claims made for CBD oil, it's essential to know how it works.

When you ingest CBD oil, it interacts with your body's endocannabinoid system, activating the CB1 and CB2 receptors. In turn, they send signals to your cells to regulate mood, cognitive function and homeostasis.

One of the reasons CBD oil has become so popular is the calming effect that users can experience. Other research-backed claims include:

• Helping with depression and anxiety
• Alleviating intense pain and other symptoms
• Supporting brain health

Again, it's important to note that research is still ongoing, but the results of clinical trials in these areas are promising.

Shop at Cheerful Buddha

If you're looking to add the potential benefits of healthful hemp-derived CBD oil to your diet, why not try our CBD-infused chocolate and coffees? Or add our naturally flavoured CBD drops to your daily routine to help you relax and rebalance.

Inspired by the therapeutic benefits of hemp and CBD oils, our Cheerful Buddha ethical edible products are a great way to enjoy the potential benefits of these natural derivatives.