Have you ever wondered if taking CBD would give you a positive drug test? We take a look at CBD and drug tests in the UK, and what you need to know.
Your Guide to CBD and Drug Tests in the UK
Are you wondering if CBD could cause a positive result on a drug test?
Have you ever been curious about trying CBD but hesitated due to concerns about drug tests? Whether you need to undergo regular drug screenings for work or play, the fear of testing positive for THC can be a major deterrent. However, before you write off CBD altogether, it's important to understand what drug tests actually screen for and how CBD products in the UK fit into the equation.
The basics of CBD and THC
CBD and THC are both compounds found in the cannabis plant and hemp plants. CBD stands for cannabidiol and is often touted for its potential benefits. It is non-addictive and non-euphoric and is generally recognised as being well-tolerated by our bodies. While THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the compound that causes the euphoric 'high' effects. When people talk about "weed" or "marijuana," they're usually referring to products that contain high levels of THC, while CBD products tend to have low or no levels of THC.
Drug tests in the UK
Drug tests are typically used to screen for the presence of drugs in a person's system. The types of drug tests vary depending on what is being tested for, but most commonly they involve testing a sample of urine, saliva, or blood for the presence of certain drugs. Drug tests will usually test for THC and cannabinoids, but not CBD specifically.
You may be asked to take a drug test for various reasons, including pre-employment screening, random testing at work, or as part of an athletics or professional sport. If you are taking medications that contain THC, such as Sativex, it's important to disclose this information to your doctor or employer beforehand.
What do drug tests test for?
Drug tests are designed to detect controlled substances, particularly THC. Cannabis products with high THC concentrations can trigger a positive result, which is why many people are wary of using CBD products, which are derived from the hemp plant. However, in the UK, legally sold CBD must contain less than 0.2% THC. This means that using CBD products that comply with UK regulations would not result in a positive drug test.
In fact, CBD is most often derived from hemp plants that are grown to contain little to no THC at all! This means quality CBD products can be enjoyed completely safely without the fear of triggering a positive result on drug tests.
The importance of good quality CBD
It's important to note, however, that not all CBD products are created equal. Poor-quality CBD products can contain levels of THC that are higher than the legal limit, resulting in a potential positive drug test.
You can check the labels and ingredients of the CBD product however some may not list it or even list an incorrect amount. To ensure that you won't test positive for THC, stick to reputable CBD brands that provide third-party lab reports that confirm their products contain less than the legal limit of THC. The type of CBD used in the products can also be a giveaway to the presence of THC.
Types of CBD available
There are three main types of CBD available: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum and isolate. Full-spectrum CBD contains all the cannabinoids found in hemp, including trace amounts of THC. However, as these products must contain less than 0.2% THC to be legally sold in the UK, full-spectrum CBD products may cause a positive result if the THC is above legal requirements.
Broad-spectrum CBD contains all of the cannabinoids found in hemp but has had the THC removed. These products are a safer bet if you need to undergo regular drug tests as they contain no THC.
CBD Isolate is the purest form of CBD, meaning it contains absolutely no other cannabinoids or substances. Since there's no risk of any THC being present, this type of CBD is the safest option for those who need to pass regular drug tests.
Some people prefer to use full-spectrum CBD as there are reported benefits to taking all the accompanying cannabinoids - known as the entourage effect. But you may want to consider switching to THC-free CBD products such as broad-spectrum or CBD Isolate to minimize your risk of testing positive.
If you are concerned about drug tests and regularly use CBD products, it's always a good idea to talk to your employer or medical professional. They can provide you with more information on what substances their drug tests screen for, which can help you make informed decisions about using CBD.
In conclusion
Overall, while the thought of a drug test can be intimidating, the good news is that legally sold CBD products in the UK should not cause you to test positive for THC. By purchasing high-quality CBD products from reputable brands and paying attention to their THC content, you can enjoy the potential benefits of CBD without worrying about negative repercussions on your drug tests. So, go ahead and try out CBD products for yourself and experience their potential benefits.
Cali Greens provides customers with the best quality CBD products that are THC-free and lab-tested. Our range of CBD products includes CBD oral drops, CBD vape and a range of CBD topicals. Discover our full range of products and start on a wellness journey with Cali Greens.
