CBD oil has become wildly popular of late, with nearly 1 in 7 Americans trying the compound. However, since it is so new, there is a wide degree of misinformation about its impacts. For example, many are confused about if CBD has any intoxicating effects, and whether or not you can even drive while using CBD oil, a question which could have a major impact on your travel plans.
Nature of CBD
As long as it is made legally, CBD will contain, at the most, .3 percent THC (or tetrahydrocannabinol, which is the chemical in marijuana responsible for intoxication). As such, it is impossible to get high while using CBD, and you should not feel anything close to intoxication. Indeed, CBD is not a drug like marijuana. Instead, it alters the functioning of your body’s naturally occurring endocannabinoid system. This can have an impact on a variety of bodily functions, including pain, appetite, fatigue, and more.
Sensitivity of Drug Testing
If you are pulled over and suspected of being under the influence of marijuana, you’ll be given a drug test. It is extremely unlike that CBD will result in you testing positive, but it is possible. This depends on a variety of factors, including how recently you consumed the CBD, your previous history with cannabis, your metabolism, height, weight and the sensitivity of the drug test.
Local Laws
Keep in mind that some states have specific laws regarding CBD and whether or not it is legal to consume or possess. While it is legal in most states in America, and at the federal level, you should always check local laws before consuming or purchasing CBD. Just imagine during your commute getting arrested for DUI, it is something you don’t want on your record—getting a DUI ruins lives. This is very important and particularly if you travel abroad, as many countries have not yet legalized CBD.
Other Medications
One of the key aspects about CBD to keep in mind is that it can cause your liver to absorb more of a medication that may be designed by the medication’s creators, or even than is healthy for your body. This tends to cause the effects of medication on your body to be exaggerated. As such, if you take medications that have sedative effects, taking CBD may enhance those effects and make you an unsafe driver.
You should always use caution when consuming any new substance, including CBD. Check with your doctor or other medical professionals to make sure that your CBD consumption is safe while you travel on the road.
Planning a road trip soon? Check out these tips for eating healthily while you travel.