CBD is one of the compounds that has been the subject of extensive research, second only to THC. There are still many unanswered questions regarding the use and properties of this product. It comes in various forms, such as crystals, candies, herbal teas, oils, and e-liquids.
This last type of product is, in fact, very popular with consumers.
But you may find yourself driving after vaping your e-liquid. Find out here whether CBD e-liquid can be detected in a saliva test and the various risks drivers face.
Can you drive after using CBD?
According to several studies, CBD generally can have side effects on users if they abuse it. For example, research has shown that consuming this product can cause mild fatigue or episodes of drowsiness, which can lead to a lack of alertness while driving: we advise against driving after consuming CBD, especially in large quantities.
In addition, excessive use of CBD e-liquid can cause mild digestive issues. These issues may interfere with your ability to drive. In any case, it is not advisable to consume CBD e-liquid or any other CBD product right before getting behind the wheel.
Results of a saliva test after consuming CBD e-liquid.
Ever since you started using CBD e-liquid, you’ve been wondering whether or not you can drive. You should know that in France, using CBD is legal if—and only if—the THC content is strictly below 0.3%. In fact, since this substance is permitted, you face no risk if you get behind the wheel, and you’re not likely to run into any legal trouble.
However, the saliva test administered by law enforcement during traffic stops does not directly measure the amount of the substance present in your body. In other words, these tests indicate whether substances such as THC, drugs, or cocaine are present in your saliva, but not their quantity. They also do not detect the presence of CBD. You therefore run the risk of testing positive during these checks, since your CBD e-liquid contains an average of 0.19%.
Therefore, you must now prove to the law enforcement officer who issued you a citation that it is indeed CBD and that you are using it for therapeutic or recreational purposes. Only after providing this proof will you be in compliance with the law.
How can you prove that you're actually taking CBD?
CBD and THC are two cannabinoids that are very similar and can be confusing. Furthermore, although CBD offers countless benefits for the body, it is sometimes subject to prejudice because of its origin. Therefore, to clear yourself of any suspicion of drug possession, you must prove that you are using CBD. To do so, you should have a document that details the product’s characteristics—such as a receipt, for example.
To further prove your innocence, you can also undergo blood or urine tests. These tests will accurately determine the amount of THC—no matter how small—in your blood or urine. However, you will be required to take a saliva test if law enforcement suspects you.
To sum up, CBD itself is not detected in a saliva test. Rather, it is the THC present in your CBD e-liquid that is detected. The good news is that you can prove to the court that you are indeed using CBD to avoid any fines.