Cannabidiol, or CBD, has become increasingly popular in the United Kingdom as a natural remedy for various ailments and a wellness supplement. With this growing interest, many UK consumers are curious about whether CBD will show up on drug tests.
This article aims to answer the question, of whether CBD shows up on drug tests by discussing the likelihood of CBD causing a positive result, the types of tests commonly used, and how to minimize any risks associated with consuming CBD products.
We will also explore the differences between full spectrum CBD, broad spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate, as well as the importance of choosing high-quality CBD oil from reputable companies to avoid testing positive for THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the many naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis plants, particularly in Cannabis sativa. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the psychoactive compound responsible for the "high" associated with cannabis use, CBD does not produce any psychoactive effects. This makes it an appealing option for those seeking relief from various conditions without the mind-altering effects of certain drugs or marijuana.
In the UK, CBD is legal as long as it contains less than 0.2% THC. This distinction is crucial for UK consumers who want to avoid testing positive on a drug test due to THC content in their CBD products.
Drug Testing in the UK
Drug testing is common in several scenarios in the UK, such as employer drug testing, athletic drug tests, and legal proceedings. The primary purpose of these tests is to detect the presence of illegal substances or performance-enhancing drugs that could give individuals an unfair advantage or pose safety risks in the workplace.
The most common types of drug tests used in the UK include urine drug tests, blood tests, hair tests, and saliva tests. These tests typically screen for a range of substances, including THC, opioids, amphetamines, and other compounds. It's essential to understand how these tests work and what they're looking for to gauge the likelihood of a CBD product causing a positive result.
Does CBD Show Up on Drug Tests?
When it comes to the question, whether CBD shows up on a drug test, the answer is generally no – pure CBD should not show up on a drug test. This is because most drug tests are designed to detect THC and other illegal substances, not CBD specifically. However, there is still a risk of testing positive for THC if your CBD product contains trace amounts of this psychoactive compound.
Cross-contamination during the production process or mislabeling of products could lead to the presence of THC in CBD oil, even if it's in small amounts. This is why it's crucial to choose high-quality CBD products from reputable CBD companies that provide third-party lab test results confirming their products' contents. By doing so, you can significantly reduce the risk of failing a drug test due to THC in your CBD oil.
Reasons for Failing a CBD Drug Test
There are a few different reasons why someone might fail a drug test for CBD.
Mislabeling of Products
A CBD oil is may be contain more THC than indicated. While most CBD products contain only trace amounts of THC, there has been evidence of some companies mislabeling their products to fit the regulation, when in reality they contain higher levels of THC.
Test sensitivity
Some drug tests are more sensitive than others and may be able to detect even low levels of THC. This is more likely to occur if the test is looking for THC specifically.
Secondhand Exposure to THC
Secondhand exposure to THC can lead to a positive drug test, according to a new study. A study, which was published in the Journal of Analytical Toxicology found that people who were exposed to secondhand marijuana smoke had detectable levels of THC in their system. The researchers believe that the THC may have been absorbed through the skin or inhaled through the lungs. While the study did not find that secondhand exposure to marijuana caused impaired driving or other negative effects, it does raise questions about how long THC can stay in the body. The study's authors say that more research is needed to determine the risks of secondhand exposure to marijuana.
Simple error
Drug tests have a margin of error and it is possible to test positive even if you have not used cannabis.
How to Minimize the Risk of a Positive Test Result
To avoid testing positive for THC while taking CBD, consider using broad spectrum CBD products or CBD isolate instead of full spectrum CBD products. Broad spectrum CBD and CBD isolate products do not contain any THC, while full spectrum CBD products may have trace amounts of THC.
It's also important to research and select reputable CBD brands that offer third-party lab results, ensuring the accuracy of their product labels and the absence of prohibited substances. These test results will help you determine how much THC, if any, is present in your chosen product.
At Nordic Oil, all of our CBD products are made from 100% bio industrial hemp and are guaranteed to have non-detectable THC. We also offer CBD Isolate, which is a pure CBD product that has been specifically processed to remove all traces of THC.
Lastly, consult with a healthcare professional or medical supervision before incorporating CBD into your routine, especially if you're subject to regular drug testing. They can provide guidance on potential drug interactions and offer advice on the appropriate CBD dosage to minimize the risk of an adverse analytical finding.
Can I test positive for THC if I take CBD Oil every day?
CBD oil can contain trace amounts of THC, so in theory it is possible to test positive for THC on a drug test after taking CBD oil. This could happen in case the CBD oil is derived from a cannabis plants, rich in THC.
However, in Europe, including in the UK, CBD oils must be derived only from industrial hemp plants, which are naturally low in THC. Therefore the amount of THC in most CBD oils is very small and is not likely to cause a positive drug test result. If you are concerned about testing positive for THC, you can choose a CBD oil that has been specifically processed to remove all traces of THC, such as CBD Isolate.
Driving After Consuming CBD and Roadside Drug Tests
For UK drivers who consume CBD, it's important to understand the potential implications of being stopped for a roadside drug test. While CBD should not impair your ability to drive safely, trace amounts of THC in some CBD products could potentially lead to a positive result on a saliva test during a traffic stop. To avoid any issues, it's crucial to choose high-quality, THC-free CBD products from reputable companies with third-party lab test results. Additionally, if you're new to taking CBD or unsure about how it may affect you, consider avoiding driving until you have a clear understanding of your body's response to CBD. It's also essential to note that while driving after consuming CBD is generally safe, combining it with alcohol can impair your driving abilities. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of CBD while maintaining confidence in your ability to pass a roadside drug test and drive safely.
Conclusion
In summary, while pure CBD should not cause a positive drug test result, it's essential for UK consumers to take precautions when choosing and consuming CBD products. If you are choosing just any CBD brand, opt for broad spectrum CBD or CBD isolate products from reputable companies, verify the provided third-party lab test results, and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure you can enjoy the benefits of CBD without the risk of testing positive for THC or other prohibited substances.