Can you test positive for CBD?

Cannabidiol, commonly known by the acronym CBD, is a non-psychotropic cannabinoid with multiple therapeutic benefits. The product is not considered a narcotic. That does not stop consumers from wondering: can you test positive for CBD? Find the answers in the following lines.

What is CBD?

CBD is one of the main components of hemp. The substance has therapeutic properties that have been exploited for centuries. Cannabidiol differs from Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in that it has no psychotropic effects. It therefore does not alter behavior and does not create dependence.

Due to its virtues demonstrated by science, CBD is recognized as a natural remedy with no risk to health. The product is legalized in several European countries, including France. However, its use is regulated by specific legislation.

Why use CBD?

CBD has beneficial effects on the body. The molecule is notably said to have the following properties:

• analgesic: cannabidiol acts on the receptors of the endocannabinoid system to significantly reduce the sensation of pain;
• anti-inflammatory: CBD limits the reactions of immune system cells to external aggressions to relieve, or even prevent, inflammation;
• anti-emetic: the CBD molecule regulates the functioning of the digestive system. It acts in particular by soothing contractions of the small intestine. The product thus helps combat nausea and vomiting;
• anti-stress: CBD also has regulating effects on the nervous system. Furthermore, the cannabinoid promotes the secretion of dopamine, serotonin, and melatonin. These hormones are responsible for the well-being and relaxation of the body and mind. Thus, cannabidiol greatly contributes to treating psychological disorders.

Dedicated scientific studies also prove that CBD may have antiseptic potential. The substance would also help inhibit the development of tumors and cancers. It would also have beneficial effects on growth.

Consequently, CBD proves effective in treating various everyday ailments. The product could even be prescribed as a complement to medication treatments for certain chronic diseases. Cannabidiol could even constitute a natural alternative to certain chemical products.

Is CBD legal in France?

French laws concerning the regulation of CBD use have undergone significant changes.

Until 30 December 2021, the use of cannabidiol in France was governed by the decree of 22 August 1990. This legislation authorized the use of CBD derived exclusively from the seeds and fibers of Cannabis Sativa L. The law also imposed a limit on the THC level in CBD products and extracts of 0,3%.

On 23 July 2018, the French Ministry of Justice issued a clarification regarding the legal THC threshold. The institution notably stipulated that the 0,3% threshold applied only to hemp plants. Thus, CBD-derived products were required to show no trace of THC.

The decree of 30 December 2021, for its part, imposed a ban on the use of cannabidiol leaves and flowers. This law was suspended on 24 January 2022.

An announcement by the Council of State dated 29 December 2022 formalizes the legalization of CBD in France.

Thus, cannabidiol extracts and products containing cannabidiol with a THC level below 0,3 % are legally authorized for sale and consumption in France.

Are there CBD tests in France?

Cannabidiol is officially legalized in France. The authorities therefore have no interest in carrying out tests to detect this cannabinoid. Nevertheless, CBD tests do indeed exist. These tools are notably used in the context of research on the molecule.

However, it should be noted that a CBD consumer can test positive following a saliva test or a urine drug test. This occurs when the ingested product contains a high level of THC, exceeding the legal threshold established by law. The person concerned then risks the penalties provided for drug users, namely:

• 1 year of imprisonment;
• a fine that can amount to 3 750 Euros.

If the test is carried out during a roadside check, the CBD product consumer risks a deduction of 6 points from their driving license or a suspension of the driving license for up to 3 years.

It is therefore possible to test positive following the consumption of poor-quality CBD. The penalties provided for are severe. Thus, the only way to ensure you avoid this burdensome situation is to consume superior quality CBD. To do so, purchase your CBD products from a reliable and dedicated brand.