What Is CBD? A Look Into the Hemp Plant Compounds

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of many non-intoxicating cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. It works within our endocannabinoid system to help keep our body and mind in equilibrium, acting uniquely on both CB1 and CB2 receptors separately and simultaneously to inhibit or activate receptor functions. Along with many other cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids, broad-spectrum hemp extract gives your body the broadest spectrum of cannabinoids and other plant compounds to choose from to suit individual physiological needs without the "high" associated with THC.

But to really understand what CBD is, it helps to step back and look at the bigger picture of what makes the hemp plant and unique: its phytocannabinoids and other powerful plant compounds and how they interact with our body. That’s where the story of CBD begins.

The Endocannabinoid System: How Our Body Stays Balanced

Our bodies are complex systems that doctors and scientists are still learning more about every day. One of these recent discoveries, made in the 1990s, is the Endocannabinoid System. Each and every one of us has an Endocannabinoid System that helps maintain homeostasis. The Endocannabinoid System has CB1 and CB2 receptors that are located throughout the body. These receptors are prevalent in the brain, the central and peripheral nervous systems, and tissues associated with the immune system. This system helps regulate processes across many biological functions within our bodies. And just like other systems in the body, the Endocannabinoid System can be influenced by external factors, like certain botanical ingredients, to help improve harmony and balance within our bodies and minds.

To supports the function of your endocannabinoid system, your body produces its own cannabinoids. Just like other systems in your body, sometimes we need to supplement these internal systems with external sources, and that is where hemp and its phytocannabinoids, including CBD, come in.

Phytocannabinoids: The Hemp Plant’s Signature Compounds

Phytocannabinoids are plant-derived molecules that interact with cannabinoid receptors in the human body. There are more than a hundred of these compounds discovered so far, with CBD being one of the most abundant. Other well-known phytocannabinoids include:

• THC (tetrahydrocannabinol): Famous for its psychoactive effects, but present only in trace amounts in federally legal hemp and removed from Kyoto Botanicals hemp oil products.

• CBG (cannabigerol): Often called the “mother cannabinoid” because many others, including CBD, are derived from it during the plant’s growth cycle.

• CBC (cannabichromene): A non-intoxicating cannabinoid with potential benefits for mood and overall wellness.

• CBN (cannabinol): Created as THC naturally breaks down, often associated with sleep support.

CBD belongs to this family of cannabinoids, but it’s far from the only compound in hemp that contributes to its wellness potential.

Beyond Cannabinoids: Terpenes and Flavonoids

Hemp is more than just cannabinoids. The plant also produces terpenes—the aromatic compounds that give hemp (and other plants like lavender, citrus, and pine) their distinctive scent. Terpenes are thought to play a role in the “entourage effect,” where different compounds work together to enhance potential benefits.

Alongside terpenes are flavonoids, plant chemicals found in fruits, vegetables, and teas. In hemp, flavonoids may contribute antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, complementing the effects of cannabinoids like CBD.

Together, cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids form a complex “botanical fingerprint” unique to hemp. This is what makes organic CBD oil so much more than just a single compound in isolation.

Where CBD Is Found in the Hemp Plant

One of the biggest points of confusion in the CBD world is the difference between hemp seed oil and CBD oil. Here’s the key distinction:

• Hemp seed oil is made by cold-pressing hemp seeds. It’s nutritious and rich in omega fatty acids, but it contains little to no CBD. Think of it as similar to olive oil—it’s a food oil, not a cannabinoid extract.

• CBD oil is made by extracting cannabinoids from the flowers and aerial parts of the hemp plant, where CBD is concentrated. This is the oil people take for wellness purposes.

If you’re searching for the best organic CBD oil, look for products made from hemp flowers grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. Brands that source from places like Colorado CBD farms often highlight their clean, carefully cultivated hemp to ensure purity and potency.

Why This Matters

Understanding the difference between hemp’s compounds helps you cut through the marketing noise. CBD isn’t just another ingredient—it’s part of a rich botanical profile that makes hemp such a powerful plant. By knowing where CBD comes from and how it differs from hemp seed oil, you can make more informed decisions about the products you choose.

When evaluating CBD, prioritize transparency, organic sourcing, and lab testing. That’s the difference between a generic product and the best organic CBD oil crafted with care.

FAQs About CBD

Is CBD the same as hemp oil?

Not exactly. Hemp seed oil is made from seeds and contains no CBD, while CBD oil is made from hemp flowers and contains cannabinoids like cannabidiol.

Will CBD get me high?

No. CBD is non-intoxicating. Unlike THC, it does not cause the “high” effect.

Is CBD legal?

Yes—at the federal level in the United States, hemp-derived CBD containing less than 0.3% THC is legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. Always check your local state laws for details.

How does CBD work in the body?

CBD interacts with your endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate functions like sleep, mood, stress response, and recovery.

What’s the difference between full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate?

• Full-spectrum: Contains CBD plus other cannabinoids (including trace THC), terpenes, and flavonoids.

• Broad-spectrum: Contains CBD and other cannabinoids but is typically THC-free.

• CBD isolate: Pure CBD, with all other compounds removed.

How can I tell if my CBD oil is high quality?

Look for USDA-certified organic CBD oil, third-party lab results, and brands that are transparent about their sourcing and testing. Many companies highlight their Colorado CBD heritage because the state is a leader in hemp cultivation and regulation. For CBD you can trust, make sure to check out our Mint Organic CBD Oil.

✅ Key Takeaway: CBD is a phytocannabinoid found in hemp flowers, working alongside other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids to support wellness. Hemp seed oil, by contrast, is nutritious but contains no CBD. If you want the best organic CBD oil, choose products made from Colorado CBD hemp flowers with verified lab testing for purity and potency.