Cannabidiol (CBD) has been touted as an effective remedy for a variety of illnesses of the mind and body. But many people wonder, does CBD show up on a drug test? This guide will you the information you need on CBD and drug tests so that you can make the best decision for you and choose the right product!
The National Institute of Drug Abuse says that “CBD appears to be a safe drug with no addictive effects, and the preliminary data suggest that it may have therapeutic value for a number of medical conditions.” To take advantage of these health benefits while maintaining desirable results on a drug screening, choose products that are high in CBD and low in or absent of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
The Difference Between THC and CBD
THC and CBD are two varieties of the Cannabis Sativa plant. When smoked or eaten, THC produces a euphoric psychoactive effect that reduces anxiety and increases sensations of relaxation. CBD doesn’t have psychoactive effects, and many have found that it can have a profound effect on physical ailments, as well as psychological ailments.
Although more studies need to be conducted, many consumers have already discovered that THC can be effectively utilized to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, multiple sclerosis, inflammation and more. With no psychoactive effect, in other words, without the feeling of getting “high,” CBD has helped people overcome the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, acne, psoriasis, depression, schizophrenia, irritable bowel syndrome and much more.
The jury is still out on which of these two is most effective in treating chronic pain. Some previous studies indicate that THC is best suited to treat cramping pain and spasms, while CBD is most effective for pain associated with inflammation and neuropathy.
In December of 2018, the Farm Bill of 2018 was passed making CBD federally legal and therefore expanding the opportunity for much needed research on its benefits to the human body. To find out more about the differences, check out our guide on CBD vs THC.
Does CBD Show Up on Drug Tests?
Many companies, especially those in safety-sensitive industries, protect their integrity by screening employees for drug use. With THC-containing marijuana still federally illegal, employers commonly screen for it when screening for other illicit drugs. Theoretically, the use of CBD should not produce a positive result on standard drug screenings; however, many CBD products have traces of THC that – when consumed in high volumes – can produce a positive result.
The new law that regulates the use of CBD says that CBD must have a maximum level of 0.3 percent of THC. Vanderbuilt University points out that CBD with a higher content of THC is illegal. Three types of CBD are now commercially available, which can offer a solution to users of CBD who anticipate having to take a drug test.
Which CBD Oil Should I Choose?
The extraction process of CBD can vary, and each extraction method results in a different level of retained THC. Consumers have the choice of three extraction processes: Full Spectrum CBD, Broad Spectrum CBD and CBD Isolate.
Full Spectrum CBD
Full Spectrum CBD can be extracted from hemp or marijuana. The process separates all cannabinoids from the plant at the same time. This commonly includes a combination that is rich in CBD but may also include some THC. While most people experience the most relief when CBD and THC are used together, using Full Spectrum CBD comes with some risk for consumers who anticipate having to take a drug test.
Broad Spectrum CBD
The extraction process for Broad Spectrum CBD is like Full Spectrum CBD in that all cannabinoids are extricated together; although, there is an important difference. THC is completely removed from these cannabinoids during the process. Many drug tests are looking for just THC, but if you’re taking a test that looks for all cannabinoids, it may still pose some concerns for a positive test result.
CBD Isolate
The extraction process for CBD Isolate offers the best chance at avoiding a positive drug test result. It’s extracted alone from a hemp plant – not marijuana – and results in pure CBD, completely absent of THC.
Although not impossible, a positive result on a drug screen is rare when CBD Isolate is being used. The safest extraction process for those concerned about a positive result on a drug screening is CBD Isolate; however, all three processes are unlikely to produce a positive result. This type of CBD and drug tests are a green light.
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