Introduction
Cannabidiol (CBD) has become a popular natural remedy for various ailments, including anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain. With the increasing use of CBD, people often wonder if it could cause a failed drug test. This article aims to provide information on broad-spectrum CBD and its potential impact on drug tests.
What is Broad Spectrum CBD?
Broad-spectrum CBD is extracted from the hemp plant and contains most of the cannabinoids present in the plant, including CBD. However, it is processed differently from other forms of CBD. The extraction process involves removing all traces of THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana, while preserving the other beneficial components of the plant. This ensures that users can enjoy the benefits of a variety of cannabinoids without the risk of getting high or failing a drug test.
However, unlike CBD isolate, broad-spectrum CBD contains terpenes, which are essential oils that give the plant its distinct flavor and aroma. Terpenes are believed to have therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety effects.
Will Broad-Spectrum CBD Make You Fail a Drug Test?
Drug tests are used to detect the presence of illegal or prescription drugs in the body. These tests target specific compounds and their metabolites. In the case of CBD products, the tests aim to detect THC, the psychoactive compound present in marijuana that can cause a person to feel high.
While broad-spectrum CBD contains most of the cannabinoids present in the hemp plant, including THC, the THC levels are usually lower than the legal limits prescribed by most countries. The legal limit in the United States, for example, is 0.3% THC for hemp-derived CBD products.
However, it is still possible to fail a drug test after using broad-spectrum CBD if the THC levels are above the legal limit or if the testing method used is highly sensitive. It is essential to note that drug tests vary and can detect different amounts of THC in the body.
Comparison of THC Levels in Full-Spectrum CBD, Broad-Spectrum CBD, and CBD Isolate
Full-spectrum CBD products contain the full spectrum of cannabinoids, including THC, in varying amounts. Since it contains THC, it is more likely to cause a failed drug test than broad-spectrum CBD or CBD isolate.
On the other hand, CBD isolate is a pure form of CBD that does not contain any other cannabinoids, including THC. Therefore, it is highly unlikely to cause a failed drug test.
Factors That Determine the Likelihood of Failing a Drug Test
The likelihood of failing a drug test after using broad-spectrum CBD depends on several factors, including:
How Much CBD is Consumed
The amount of CBD consumed can affect the THC levels in the body. The higher the dose of CBD, the more likely it is to contain trace amounts of THC that can trigger a positive drug test.
How THC Was Extracted and Processed
The method used to extract and process THC can affect its purity and potency. THC isolates extracted using advanced methods are less likely to cause a failed drug test than those extracted using inferior methods.
How Often You Take CBD
Taking broad-spectrum CBD regularly can increase the chances of THC buildup in the body, making it more likely to trigger a positive drug test.
What to Do If You Need to Pass a Drug Test
If you need to pass a drug test and you are using broad-spectrum CBD, there are several things you can do to minimize the risk of failing the test:
Tips for Avoiding a Failed Drug Test While Using Broad-Spectrum CBD
- Be aware of the THC levels in the product you are using.
- Choose products from reputable brands that provide third-party lab reports to verify the THC levels.
- Start with a low dose and gradually increase the dosage as needed.
- Avoid using broad-spectrum CBD products close to your drug test date.
Understanding How to Read the Label of CBD Products
Reading the labels on CBD products is essential to determine the THC levels. Look for products that are labeled as “THC-free” or “No THC detected” to ensure that they do not contain any THC.
Identifying Reputable Brands
Choosing products from reputable brands that provide third-party lab reports to verify the THC levels and purity of their products is crucial. Research the brand and read customer reviews to ensure that they are trustworthy.
Final Thoughts
While broad-spectrum CBD products typically contain very low levels of THC and are unlikely to cause a failed drug test, it is still essential to exercise caution. Understanding the THC levels in the products you are using, choosing reputable brands, and following the recommended dosage can help minimize the risk of failing a drug test.
References
1. Legal Information Institute. (n.d.). Controlled Substances Act. Cornell Law School. Retrieved January 16, 2021, from https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/21/802.
2. Millar, S. A., Stone, N. L., Bellman, Z. D., Yates, A. S., England, T. J., & O’Sullivan, S. E. (2018). A systematic review of cannabidiol dosing in clinical populations. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 84(9), 1888-1900. https://doi.org/10.1111/bcp.13603
3. Zlebnik, N. E., & Cheer, J. F. (2016). Beyond the CB1 receptor: Is Cannabidiol the answer for disorders of motivation? Annual Review of Neuroscience, 39, 1-17. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-neuro-070815-014038
4. Observational study of the subjective and therapeutic effects of cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabinol. (2015). European Neuropsychopharmacology, 25(11), 317-323. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.euroneuro.2015.01.014
5. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). What you need to know (and what we’re working to find out) about products containing cannabis or cannabis-derived compounds, including CBD. Retrieved January 16, 2021, from https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-you-need-know-and-what-were-working-find-out-about-products-containing-cannabis-or-cannabis.