Skip to content
Back to all blogs

Hemp Oil and CBD: Does One Always Contain the Other?

December 19, 2025
Confused: does hemp oil have CBD in it? Get the clear answer! Discover the real difference between hemp seed oil & CBD oil for informed wellness choices. Read more now!

Table of Contents

  1. Understanding the Source: The Remarkable Hemp Plant
  2. What Exactly is Hemp Seed Oil?
  3. What Exactly is CBD Oil?
  4. So, Does Hemp Oil Have CBD in It? The Clear Answer.
  5. Why Choose Swiss Peak Health for Clarity and Quality
  6. Choosing the Right Product for Your Wellness Journey
  7. Navigating Product Labels and Testing for Ultimate Confidence
  8. Exploring Related Wellness Support
  9. Conclusion
  10. Frequently Asked Questions

Imagine walking into a wellness shop, whether online or on the high street. You’re looking for something to support your daily balance, perhaps improve sleep quality, or simply boost your overall wellbeing. Suddenly, you’re faced with a dizzying array of products: "hemp oil," "CBD oil," "hemp extract," "cannabidiol" – the list goes on. It's enough to make anyone scratch their head and wonder, "Does hemp oil have CBD in it?"

This common confusion is exactly what we aim to clear up today. In the bustling world of natural wellness, understanding the nuances between seemingly similar products is crucial for making informed choices. At Swiss Peak Health, our mission is simple: peak health for less – making premium wellness genuinely affordable and accessible through clarity and transparency. We’re here to demystify the relationship between hemp oil and CBD oil, helping you navigate the options with confidence. By the end of this guide, you’ll clearly understand their differences, what each can offer, and how to choose the right products to support your unique wellness journey.

Understanding the Source: The Remarkable Hemp Plant

To truly grasp the distinction between hemp oil and CBD oil, we must first look at their origin: the hemp plant. Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa L. plant species, specifically cultivated to contain very low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound associated with intoxicating effects. In the UK, legal hemp must contain less than 0.2% THC, meaning it won't produce a "high." This critical distinction allows hemp to be legally grown and harvested for a wide array of industrial and wellness purposes.

What makes hemp so versatile is that different parts of the plant offer distinct compounds and benefits. Just as an apple tree provides both fruit and wood, the hemp plant provides seeds, stalks, leaves, and flowers, each yielding different extracts with unique profiles. This botanical diversity is at the heart of why "hemp oil" and "CBD oil" are not always the same thing.

What Exactly is Hemp Seed Oil?

When people refer to "hemp oil" in a general sense, they are often talking about hemp seed oil. This oil is extracted exclusively from the tiny, nutrient-rich seeds of the hemp plant, typically through a cold-pressing method similar to how olive oil or sunflower oil is made.

Composition and Nutritional Profile

Hemp seeds themselves are a powerhouse of nutrition, and the oil pressed from them reflects this. Hemp seed oil is celebrated for its exceptional fatty acid profile, boasting an ideal balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids. These are "essential" because our bodies cannot produce them, and we must obtain them through our diet. Beyond omegas, hemp seed oil also contains:

  • Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA): A type of Omega-6 fatty acid.
  • Vitamins: Notably B vitamins and vitamin D.
  • Antioxidants: Compounds that help protect the body.
  • Protein: A good source of plant-based protein.

The Key Distinction: No CBD or THC

Crucially, because hemp seed oil is derived solely from the seeds, it contains little to no CBD or THC. The cannabinoids like CBD are primarily concentrated in the plant's flowers, leaves, and stalks, not its seeds. This means that if you pick up a bottle labelled purely "hemp seed oil," you should not expect it to contain cannabidiol.

Benefits of Hemp Seed Oil

With its rich nutritional content, hemp seed oil is primarily valued for its dietary and topical benefits:

  • Supports Skin and Hair Health: The essential fatty acids can contribute to maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat for pets, or promote a well-nourished complexion for humans.
  • Boosts Overall Nutrition: It can be a beneficial addition to a balanced diet, providing vital nutrients.
  • Digestive Support: Many people find its natural composition to be gentle on the digestive system.
  • Culinary Versatility: Its mild, nutty flavour makes it a great addition to salad dressings, smoothies, or as a finishing oil.

Practical Application

Consider incorporating hemp seed oil into your daily routine as a nutritional supplement. For example, a drizzle over your morning porridge or mixed into a salad can offer a natural boost of beneficial omegas. While Swiss Peak Health focuses on functional supplements, we recognise the foundational role of good nutrition, and understanding hemp seed oil’s value is part of that holistic approach.

What Exactly is CBD Oil?

In contrast to hemp seed oil, CBD oil is specifically extracted to capture the beneficial compound cannabidiol (CBD) and other cannabinoids from the hemp plant. This extraction process primarily targets the flowers, leaves, and sometimes the stalks of the plant, where these compounds are most abundant.

Composition and Cannabinoid Content

CBD oil is defined by its cannabidiol content. Beyond CBD itself, these extracts often contain a spectrum of other beneficial plant compounds, depending on the type of CBD oil:

  • Cannabinoids: Other compounds like CBG (cannabigerol) and CBN (cannabinol) may be present.
  • Terpenes: Aromatic compounds found in many plants, which can influence the oil's flavour, aroma, and potential effects.
  • Flavonoids: Plant compounds known for their antioxidant properties.

Types of CBD Oil

The wellness market offers several types of CBD oil, each with a slightly different composition:

  • Full-Spectrum CBD Oil: This type contains all the naturally occurring compounds found in the hemp plant, including CBD, other cannabinoids, terpenes, and trace amounts of THC (always within the legal limit of less than 0.2% in the UK). The presence of these multiple compounds is believed by many to contribute to what is known as the "entourage effect," where they work together synergistically.
  • Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil: Similar to full-spectrum, broad-spectrum CBD oil contains a range of cannabinoids and terpenes, but with non-detectable levels of THC. This is often achieved by removing THC after the initial extraction, making it an excellent option for those who wish to avoid THC entirely while still benefiting from other plant compounds.
  • CBD Isolate: As the name suggests, CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD, typically 99% pure cannabidiol. All other plant compounds, including other cannabinoids, terpenes, and THC, are removed during the extraction and purification process, resulting in a crystalline powder that is then usually mixed with a carrier oil to create an isolate-based CBD oil.

At Swiss Peak Health, many of our CBD products are meticulously crafted to be 0.0% THC / THC-free where applicable, providing you with peace of mind regarding unwanted compounds while still delivering the potential benefits of CBD.

The "Entourage Effect"

The concept of the "entourage effect" suggests that the various compounds found in the hemp plant—cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids—work together to enhance each other's effects. While CBD isolate offers pure CBD, full-spectrum and broad-spectrum oils allow for this potential synergy, which many people find contributes to a more comprehensive wellness experience.

How CBD Oil May Support Your Wellbeing

CBD oil is valued for its potential to support the body's natural balance through its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters found throughout the body, playing a role in regulating various physiological processes. By working with the ECS, CBD oil may support:

It’s important to note that results can vary from person to person, and building consistent habits is key to discovering how these products may best support your individual needs. We always encourage starting with a low amount and gradually increasing as needed, following label instructions. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or under medical supervision, please consult a healthcare professional before use.

So, Does Hemp Oil Have CBD in It? The Clear Answer.

After exploring both types of oil, we can now definitively answer the central question: No, generic "hemp oil" (referring to hemp seed oil) typically does not contain CBD. CBD is found in "CBD oil," which is a specific extract from the hemp plant's flowers, leaves, and stalks.

The main reason for the confusion stems from the broad and often unregulated use of the term "hemp oil." Sometimes, brands might use "hemp oil" as an umbrella term that could refer to a CBD-rich extract blended with hemp seed oil as a carrier. However, without clear labelling, it's safer to assume that "hemp seed oil" means exactly that—oil from the seeds, devoid of CBD.

How to Tell the Difference on a Label

Being an informed consumer means paying close attention to product labels. Here’s what to look for:

  • For Hemp Seed Oil: The ingredient list will typically state "Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil" or "Hemp Seed Oil." You will generally not see any mention of cannabidiol or specific cannabinoid percentages.
  • For CBD Oil: The ingredient list should clearly state "Cannabidiol," "CBD extract," "Full-spectrum hemp extract," "Broad-spectrum hemp extract," or "CBD isolate." It will also usually specify the total CBD content in milligrams (mg).

This distinction is fundamental to choosing the right product for your intended use. If your goal is to support your wellness with cannabidiol, ensure the product explicitly states "CBD" on the label and provides information about its content.

Why Choose Swiss Peak Health for Clarity and Quality

At Swiss Peak Health, we understand that trust is built on transparency, reliability, and unwavering quality. We were created to offer in-demand wellness products that are more than just hype, focusing on affordability, transparency, accessibility, reliability, and strong British quality controls. We are proudly British-made, and every product is crafted to high UK manufacturing standards, ensuring you receive premium wellness solutions at an accessible price.

When you explore our range, you’ll find that our commitment to clarity is paramount. We explicitly label our products so you know exactly what you’re getting:

  • Made in the UK: Our products are developed and manufactured in the United Kingdom, adhering to rigorous national standards.
  • Independently/Third-Party Lab Tested: We believe in verifiable quality. All our CBD products undergo independent third-party lab testing. We encourage our customers to review these lab results themselves, offering complete transparency about cannabinoid content and purity. This reduces guesswork and builds confidence in our offerings.
  • 0.0% THC / THC-Free: Where applicable, our CBD products are formulated to be 0.0% THC, ensuring you can enjoy the potential benefits of CBD without any concerns about THC content.
  • FSA-Aligned Compliance: We operate with a strong focus on compliance, aligning with the Food Standards Agency (FSA) Novel Foods guidelines, reflecting our dedication to responsible and legal practices within the UK market.
  • Facility Standards: Our manufacturing facilities adhere to recognised international standards such as BRC (HACCP), further testament to our commitment to safety and quality.

Swiss Peak Health represents reaching your peak, not a country of origin. This philosophy underpins our approach to bringing you products that are both effective and trustworthy, supporting your journey towards optimal wellbeing.

Choosing the Right Product for Your Wellness Journey

Now that you understand the difference between hemp seed oil and CBD oil, you can make a more informed decision about which products best fit your personal wellness goals.

Match Your Needs to the Product

  • For Nutritional Support: If you're looking for a rich source of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and a plant-based nutritional boost, hemp seed oil is an excellent choice. It’s a fantastic dietary supplement that supports general health.
  • For Functional Support: If your goal is to support everyday balance, promote feelings of calm, enhance focus, aid recovery, or improve sleep quality, then a CBD oil or CBD-infused product is likely what you're looking for. The cannabinoids in CBD oil may interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system to help maintain these vital functions.

Explore Different Formats

The versatility of wellness supplements means you can choose formats that seamlessly integrate into your lifestyle:

Building consistent habits with your chosen supplements is often more impactful than sporadic high doses. Start low and go slow, listening to your body's response, and always follow the directions on the product label.

Navigating Product Labels and Testing for Ultimate Confidence

Understanding product labels and the importance of third-party testing is your best defence against confusion and ensures you're investing in quality.

  • Ingredient Lists Are Key: As discussed, always scrutinise the ingredient list. Look for "Cannabidiol," "Full-spectrum hemp extract," or "Broad-spectrum hemp extract" if you're seeking CBD. If it just says "Hemp Seed Oil" or "Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil," it's primarily a nutritional oil.
  • Milligram (mg) Content: For CBD products, look for the total CBD content in milligrams (e.g., 1500mg CBD). This indicates the potency.
  • The Power of a Certificate of Analysis (COA): This is the gold standard for transparency. A COA is a document from an independent, third-party laboratory that verifies the cannabinoid content (including CBD and THC levels), and confirms the absence of contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial impurities. We provide these for our products because we believe you deserve to know exactly what you’re putting into your body. Always check if a brand provides up-to-date COAs and encourage verifying these lab results. This commitment to rigorous testing and transparency is a cornerstone of our compliance-led quality methodology at Swiss Peak Health.

By prioritising brands that are transparent about their sourcing, manufacturing, and testing, you can reduce guesswork and confidently integrate wellness products into your routine. Our commitment to these standards is how we uphold our promise of reliability and quality, making your pursuit of peak health both achievable and reassuring.

Exploring Related Wellness Support

While CBD oil and hemp seed oil are distinct, they are just two pieces of a broader wellness puzzle. Many other functional supplements can contribute to your overall wellbeing, working synergistically with consistent healthy habits.

For instance, if you're looking to enhance your cognitive function, beyond our CBD options, you might explore our Energy collection which includes products designed to support vitality and mental sharpness. Similarly, for comprehensive support for ageing or recovery, our NMN + Collagen Anti-Ageing Face Cream | 50ml offers a topical approach to skin health. We believe in providing a diverse range of high-quality, British-made supplements to support every aspect of your journey towards peak health.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of wellness products can feel complex, but with clear information, it becomes a path to informed choices. We’ve established that while both hemp seed oil and CBD oil originate from the versatile hemp plant, they are fundamentally different: hemp seed oil is a nutritional powerhouse derived from the seeds and contains virtually no CBD, whereas CBD oil is specifically extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks to provide concentrated cannabidiol and other beneficial compounds. The answer to "does hemp oil have CBD in it?" is generally no, unless the term "hemp oil" is being used imprecisely to refer to a CBD-rich extract.

Understanding these distinctions empowers you to select products that truly align with your wellness goals, whether that’s enhancing your nutritional intake or supporting daily balance, calm, focus, or recovery. At Swiss Peak Health, we are dedicated to making premium wellness genuinely affordable and accessible, backed by strong British quality controls, independent lab testing, and clear, transparent labelling. We pride ourselves on offering reliable, high-quality products that you can trust.

We encourage you to explore our carefully curated collections and discover how our commitment to quality can support your journey to peak health. Make your next step towards conscious wellbeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is "hemp oil" always CBD oil?

No, not always. The term "hemp oil" is often used broadly. Typically, "hemp seed oil" refers to oil pressed from the seeds of the hemp plant, which is rich in nutrients but contains little to no CBD. "CBD oil," on the other hand, is an extract from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the hemp plant specifically to contain cannabidiol. Always check the ingredient list for "Cannabidiol" or "CBD extract" to confirm if a product contains CBD.

Q2: Can hemp seed oil offer any wellness benefits?

Absolutely. While hemp seed oil does not contain CBD, it is an excellent nutritional supplement. It is rich in essential Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), vitamins (like B and D), and antioxidants. These components can support overall dietary nutrition, contribute to healthy skin and hair, and integrate well into a balanced diet.

Q3: How can I ensure the CBD oil I buy is high quality and trustworthy?

To ensure you're purchasing a high-quality CBD oil, always look for products that provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an independent, third-party lab. This document verifies the CBD and THC content, as well as confirming the absence of harmful contaminants. At Swiss Peak Health, we proudly offer British-made, independently lab-tested products, and we encourage you to review our COAs for full transparency.

Q4: Will CBD oil cause intoxicating effects?

No. CBD oil derived from hemp, especially products that are 0.0% THC or THC-free like many of those offered by Swiss Peak Health, will not cause intoxicating effects. Legal hemp in the UK must contain less than 0.2% THC, which is not enough to produce a "high." CBD itself is not psychoactive, meaning it will not alter your state of mind in the way THC does.

Drawer Title

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

Similar Products