By Contributing Author
Are you wondering about CBD oil, but aren’t sure you have all the facts? A recent phenomenon, CBD has had a large cultural impact. It’s been touted as a cure-all, helping people manage anything from depression to cancer.
The problem with any highly-marketed product is separating the facts from the hype. With money to be made, it’s difficult to know what benefits are legit, and what just makes for pretty packaging.
Worst of all, the legal consequences aren’t always clear. Chief among them are concerns about CBD usage and drug testing.
Keep reading to learn if CBD oil can provide a false drug test result.
What Is CBD Oil?
Though still illegal at the federal level, many states have started to allow the sale of marijuana products. This has led to an explosion of products as growers capitalize on this new opportunity.
But not only has this led to an increase in products, but it’s also led to a greater understanding of cannabis itself. The distinction between THC and CBD is one of these breakthroughs.
Made up of 483 compounds, marijuana’s two most prominent have very different effects. THC is the one most associated with pot consumption. A psychoactive agent, THC is the cannabinoid responsible for getting users high.
On the flipside is cannabidiol. Unlike THC, CBD works with the greater nervous system. It also doesn’t have an intoxicating influence. Instead, it’s finding use as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory product.
It’s often distilled into an oil, making it easy to ingest. Many people use it to help manage anxiety, pain, and more. Since it’s not psychoactive, it can be taken at any time without interference.
CBD and Drug Tests
The concern many people have with CBD use is that they’re still consuming a cannabis product. This is especially worrying for people who face drug tests. Could CBD use lead to a false result?
Employers will often screen for THC-use to determine the fitness of their workers. CBD, however, isn’t something most tests check for. But that doesn’t mean people who take CBD are free and clear when it comes to tests.
The truth is, even though CBD itself won’t show up on a drug test, using CBD oil could put you at risk. There are a few reasons for this.
Trace Amounts of THC
CBD derived from hemp plants contain no more than 0.3% THC. While that’s a minuscule amount, it’s not zero. Depending on the threshold the drug test is screening for, that could be enough to trigger a false positive.
Cross Contamination
Another cause for concern would be CBD contaminated with THC. Regulations don’t yet exist nationwide, so suppliers aren’t all following the same standards. This could put you at risk of consuming THC unwittingly.
Mislabeled Products
With hemp-derived CBD containing such a small amount of THC, some sellers may say their products are 100% pure, or THC-free. Always take the time to read the label information to get the full picture of what you’re taking.
Final Thoughts on CBD Oil and Drug Test Results
While there are many benefits to CBD use, it’s important to stay aware of the risks. If you’re required to pass a drug test, you need to know the facts.
Choosing a reputable provider is essential. The more you know about their methods and process, the more you can be sure about the quality of their CBD products.
Visit the Health section of our site for more articles on living better.
Read more about: Cannabis, CBD
