Are Hemp Extract and Hemp Oil the Same Thing?

December 25, 2025 •

3 min read

According to numerous wellness experts and publications, hemp extract and hemp oil are not the same thing, despite often being confused for one another. While both originate from the Cannabis sativa plant, they are derived from different parts and offer distinct benefits.

Quick Summary

Hemp extract is derived from the leaves, flowers, and stalks and is rich in cannabinoids such as CBD, whereas hemp oil, also known as hemp seed oil, is cold-pressed from the seeds and contains nutritional fatty acids but negligible cannabinoids. This fundamental difference in composition means they interact with the body in different ways, serving unique purposes for health and wellness.

Key Points

Source Difference: Hemp extract comes from the leaves, flowers, and stalks, while hemp oil is derived from the seeds.
Cannabinoid Content: Hemp extract is rich in therapeutic cannabinoids like CBD, whereas hemp seed oil contains none.
Intended Use: Hemp extract is used for wellness benefits related to cannabinoids, while hemp oil is for nutritional and skin health.
Full-Spectrum vs. Broad-Spectrum: Full-spectrum extracts contain all hemp compounds, including trace THC, while broad-spectrum is THC-free.
Labeling Matters: Read product labels and third-party lab reports carefully, as marketing can be misleading.
Entourage Effect: Full-spectrum hemp extracts can lead to the 'entourage effect,' where multiple compounds work synergistically.
Extraction Method: Complex processes like CO2 extraction are used for extracts, while simple cold-pressing is used for seed oil.

Understanding the Source: From Plant to Product

To truly understand the difference between hemp extract and hemp oil, one must look to their origin within the hemp plant. The Cannabis sativa plant is the source for both, but the part of the plant used for extraction determines the final product's properties.

Hemp Extract: The Cannabinoid Powerhouse

Hemp extract is produced from the leaves, flowers, and stalks of the hemp plant, where cannabinoids are most concentrated. Extraction methods, such as supercritical CO2 or ethanol extraction, are used. The result is a cannabinoid-rich solution used for CBD oils and other supplements.

Hemp Oil (Hemp Seed Oil): A Nutritional Treat

Hemp oil is extracted solely from the seeds of the hemp plant, often via cold-pressing. The seeds contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids but virtually no cannabinoids like CBD or THC. Thus, hemp seed oil is considered a nutritional supplement rather than a cannabinoid-rich product.

The Importance of Terminology: Clearing the Confusion

The interchangeable use of "hemp oil" and "hemp extract" causes confusion. A product labeled "hemp oil" could be cannabinoid-free hemp seed oil or a cannabinoid-rich hemp extract using hemp seed oil as a carrier oil. Reading labels and checking third-party lab reports (Certificates of Analysis) is crucial.

Comparison Table: Hemp Extract vs. Hemp Oil


Feature	Hemp Extract (often called CBD oil)	Hemp Oil (or Hemp Seed Oil)
Source	Flowers, leaves, and stalks of the hemp plant	Seeds of the hemp plant
Cannabinoid Content	Rich in cannabinoids, including CBD (and trace THC in full-spectrum)	Contains negligible to no cannabinoids
Primary Use	Therapeutic and wellness benefits, interacts with the endocannabinoid system	Nutritional benefits, cooking, and skincare
Nutritional Profile	Contains cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids	Rich in essential fatty acids (omega-3 and -6) and vitamins
Extraction Method	Complex methods like CO2 or ethanol extraction	Simple cold-pressing of the seeds

Types of Hemp Extracts: Beyond the Basics

Within the category of hemp extract, there are further distinctions based on composition. Understanding these types is essential.

Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract

Contains: All compounds naturally found in the hemp plant, including a full range of cannabinoids (like CBD, CBN, CBG), terpenes, and flavonoids.
THC Content: Legally contains less than 0.3% THC in the U.S..
Entourage Effect: Multiple compounds are believed to create a synergistic effect, enhancing benefits.

Broad-Spectrum Hemp Extract

Contains: Natural compounds of hemp, similar to full-spectrum, but with THC completely removed.
Benefit: Ideal for those who want the entourage effect but must avoid THC.

CBD Isolate

Contains: Pure, crystalline CBD, with all other plant compounds removed.
Use Case: Best for consumers who only want CBD with no other plant compounds.

Choosing the Right Product for Your Needs

Knowing your goal is the first step. For nutritional support and fatty acids, pure hemp seed oil is the choice. It can be used in cooking, as a supplement, or in skincare.

If seeking potential therapeutic effects of cannabinoids like CBD, a hemp extract (or CBD oil) is needed. Full-spectrum offers a wide range of compounds and potential 'entourage effect.' Broad-spectrum is similar without THC, while isolate provides pure CBD.

Conclusion

Hemp extract and hemp oil are not the same. The key difference is their source and chemical makeup. Hemp seed oil offers nutritional and topical benefits from fatty acids, while hemp extracts are concentrated with therapeutic cannabinoids like CBD. Consumers should look beyond the name to understand the product's source, extraction method, and compounds. Checking a Certificate of Analysis from a third-party lab is the most reliable way to confirm contents.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, hemp seed oil contains negligible amounts of cannabinoids like THC and will not cause a psychoactive 'high'.

No, hemp seed oil is pressed exclusively from the seeds of the hemp plant, which contain no cannabinoids like CBD.

The 'entourage effect' is the synergistic interaction between the various compounds (cannabinoids, terpenes, etc.) found in a full-spectrum hemp extract, which is believed to enhance its overall therapeutic benefits.

Yes, hemp seed oil is rich in omega fatty acids, which can moisturize the skin, balance oil production, and help with conditions like eczema.

You should read the ingredients label and check for third-party lab results (Certificate of Analysis) to verify the cannabinoid content.

For therapeutic effects, including pain relief, hemp extract (CBD oil) is generally more effective because of its cannabinoid content. Hemp seed oil offers only mild anti-inflammatory properties.

A carrier oil, such as hemp seed oil, MCT oil, or olive oil, is used to dilute concentrated cannabinoid extracts to a specific potency and aid in absorption.