Hemp oil capsules and CBD oil capsules are not the same product, even though the names are often used interchangeably. Hemp oil capsules are made from cold-pressed hemp seed oil, which contains negligible amounts of CBD, while CBD oil capsules contain hemp extract that has been specifically processed to retain cannabidiol. If a product label simply says "hemp oil" without stating a CBD content in milligrams, it's unlikely to contain a meaningful amount of CBD.
This distinction matters, especially if you're comparing hemp oil capsules online and expecting a specific cannabinoid content.
What Are Hemp Oil Capsules?
Hemp oil capsules are made by cold-pressing the seeds of the hemp plant. Hemp seeds themselves contain little to no CBD, since cannabinoids are concentrated in the plant's flowers and leaves, not the seeds. What hemp seed oil does offer is its own nutritional profile. It naturally contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with vitamin E.
Hemp oil capsules and hemp seed oil capsules are essentially the same product, and you'll often see the two terms used together on packaging. If you're specifically after cannabinoid content, plain hemp oil capsules are not the right choice on their own.
That said, a well-made hemp oil capsule still has a place in a supplement routine. The fatty acid profile of hemp seed oil is comparable to other plant oils used for general nutritional support, which is why some people take hemp oil capsules and CBD oil capsules alongside each other rather than choosing one over the other.
What Are CBD Oil Capsules?
CBD oil capsules are made differently. Rather than pressing the seeds, manufacturers extract cannabinoids, primarily CBD, from the flower and leaf material of the hemp plant, then combine that extract with a carrier oil before encapsulating it. A genuine CBD capsule states its CBD content in milligrams per capsule directly on the label, along with the extraction method used, such as full spectrum, broad spectrum, or CBD isolate.
Our CBD Capsules 900mg, for example, are quick and convenient, made from non-GMO hemp grown without pesticides or herbicides, with no earthy taste and 900mg per capsule. This is the kind of labelling clarity to look for when comparing hemp extract capsules, since the CBD content and sourcing are stated plainly rather than implied by the word "hemp" on the front of the pack.
Hemp Oil Capsules vs CBD Oil Capsules: Key Differences
When comparing hemp oil capsules vs CBD oil capsules, the main difference is the source material. Hemp oil capsules use hemp seed oil, while CBD oil capsules contain hemp extract with measurable cannabinoid content.
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|
Hemp Oil Capsules |
CBD Oil Capsules |
|
Made from |
Cold-pressed hemp seeds |
Hemp plant extract |
|
CBD content |
Negligible or none |
Stated in mg on the label |
|
Label to look for |
Just says "hemp oil" |
States CBD content and batch number |
How to Check If a Capsule Actually Contains CBD
Since "hemp oil capsules" and "CBD oil capsules" are sometimes used loosely in marketing, the label is the most reliable source of truth. A few things worth checking:
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CBD content in mg
A genuine CBD product states the cannabinoid content per capsule, for example, 900 mg per capsule, rather than just referencing "hemp" on the front of the pack.
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Batch number and lab report
Look for a batch number that links to third-party lab testing confirming the cannabinoid content matches the label.
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Ingredient sourcing
Non-GMO, pesticide- and herbicide-free hemp sourcing is a good sign of quality control, though it doesn't on its own confirm CBD content.
Which One Should You Choose?
Hemp oil capsules serve a different purpose. If you're after the nutritional profile associated with hemp seed oil, a hemp oil capsule delivers that without added cannabinoid content. If your goal is specifically the properties associated with CBD, for example, helping support management of everyday stresses*, you'll want a capsule that states its CBD content clearly, such as our CBD Capsules 900mg.
Both products can be taken together as separate supplements, since they serve different functions. If you're switching from hemp oil capsules to CBD capsules, choose a product that lists its cannabinoid content on the label so you know exactly what you're taking.
Sourcing is worth factoring into the decision too. Non-GMO, pesticide- and herbicide-free hemp is generally a marker of a more carefully controlled supply chain, whether you end up choosing a hemp oil capsule or a CBD oil capsule.
Browse our full CBD capsules collection or explore our wider CBD oils collection to compare formats and strengths side by side.
FAQs
Does hemp oil contain CBD?
Standard hemp seed oil is made from the seeds of the hemp plant, which naturally contain little to no CBD. If a product contains CBD, it should clearly state the amount of CBD in milligrams on the label and provide supporting product information.
How do I know if a capsule contains real CBD?
Check the packaging for a specific CBD content listed in milligrams per capsule or per serving. Reputable CBD products should also include a batch number and provide access to third-party laboratory reports that verify cannabinoid content.
Are hemp oil capsules useless?
No. Hemp seed oil capsules contain naturally occurring fatty acids, vitamins, and other nutrients that many people include as part of a balanced diet. However, they are different from CBD capsules because they do not typically contain meaningful amounts of cannabinoids.
Can I switch from hemp oil capsules to CBD capsules?
Yes. Hemp oil capsules and CBD capsules are different products and can be used separately. If your goal is to take CBD, choose a product that clearly states its CBD content and provides transparent lab-testing information for quality assurance.
*It is important to note that the benefits of these products have not been conclusively proven. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and the NHS has not made any guarantees about the efficacy of such products.
