Is CBD detectable in a saliva test?

What is the saliva test?

The saliva test is used in the event of a roadside check to find out if you have consumed drugs, in particular:

• cannabis (THC);
• opiates (heroin);
• cocaine;
• amphetamines.

Drug screening is performed using a saliva sample, a test strip, and a chemical reagent that indicates the presence of one of the drugs listed above. Results are available within minutes.

Please note that this test can be performed randomly or in cases of suspicion. However, if you have committed a traffic violation or caused an accident, drug screening and a blood alcohol test are mandatory.

If you test positive for saliva, you risk a fine of at least €4,500, two years in prison, and six points deducted from your driving licence, or even total suspension.

Can CBD make you positive on a saliva test?

The use of medical cannabis must be reasonable and controlled by the user themselves so as not to test positive on the drug test administered by law enforcement. Theoretically, CBD cannot make you test positive on a saliva test because it is not one of the molecules being screened for. However, CBD products are not completely free of THC.

Indeed, cannabidiol always contains slight traces of THC (less than 0,3%). Legally, the plant from which your product is derived must have a content of less than 0,3% . And the finished product, for its part, must not contain any THC: almost zero content.

The THC content of a plant is probably the least controllable variable. Indeed, with a capsule or a capsule, you can make precise dosages. But if you smoke a flower (which remains more or less prohibited in France ), then it's more difficult to control the THC levels to which your body is exposed. Smoking CBD flowers is the method of consumption that leaves the most cannabinoids in your mouth, which increases the risk of getting a positive test.

If your saliva contains too much THC during the saliva test, you unfortunately risk a penalty.

This may be the case if your supplier doesn't properly control their THC levels, or if you've just smoked high-potency CBD flower . If you've smoked a large amount of CBD or consumed it just before driving, your risks also increase.

Is CBD a drug?

No, CBD is not a drug , but it does have a special relationship with THC, which is a narcotic. These two molecules, cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol, come from the same infamous plant variety: Cannabis .

Cannabinoid plants, also known as cannabinoid plants, produce THC and CBD throughout their growth. Although the molecules share the same origin, they are very different...

THC is a powerful psychoactive substance. It is classified as a narcotic, and the use of cannabis containing THC is severely punishable by law.

For its part, CBD is not dangerous and does not cause psychotropic effects. It does not act aggressively on your body. On the contrary, it is rich in beneficial therapeutic properties that soothe the body and mind.

However, given its close ties to THC cannabis, the government has decided to give it highly regulated legalization. This legislation is, however, about to change.

CBD and driving: what are the right things to do?

Now that you have all the information regarding CBD, you can easily guess that driving after consuming medical cannabis is not without risk.

Indeed, in high doses, cannabidiol can pose a risk when driving, as it can cause drowsiness . Therefore, it is important to take the right steps before driving under the influence of CBD.

First, choose high-quality CBD products with a clear, organic composition. Then, be sure to choose a low dose to limit harmful side effects that could affect road safety.

Little reminder!

While driving is permitted after taking CBD, it remains strictly prohibited by the Highway Code when consuming cannabis rich in THC. Indeed, many drivers under the influence of marijuana have caused serious accidents.

Tetrahydrocannabinol causes decreased alertness, coordination, and slowed reaction times . Three factors that remain fatal on the road.

Additionally, cannabis can also cause impaired vision and hearing. In other words, after consuming this type of substance, you are unable to drive.

As a reminder, driving under the influence of narcotics such as cocaine, ecstasy, or cannabis is a crime punishable by French law. Law enforcement uses screening tests to check whether you are under the influence of cannabis.

It all begins with saliva tests, which, if positive, are followed by a blood sample. The blood sample tells the police the level of THC present in your blood through a precise blood test.

A positive THC test constitutes a traffic offense resulting in a loss of 6 points on the driving license and can lead to a license suspension ranging from 6 months to 3 years for drug use.

In the best case scenario, if you have a probationary license with 6 points, you will have to undergo an awareness course to get them back.

The fine, meanwhile, can easily reach 9,000 euros and if you are under the influence of other substances, then you risk even a 2-year prison sentence.

What are the therapeutic properties of CBD?

Here are the positive effects of the CBD molecule on your body and mind:

• Helps fight acne;
• Helps reduce stress and anxiety disorders;
• Has anti-convulsive benefits ;
• Helps fight eating disorders ;
• Helps combat sleep disorders such as insomnia;
• Acts as an anti-inflammatory capable of relieving pain ;
• Appears as a support against certain addictions;
• Soothes patients suffering from certain pathologies (Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, etc.).

Ultimately, can you really consume CBD before driving?

In theory, you can consume CBD before driving because it's 100% legal, not a drug, and isn't tested for in a saliva test. In practice, it's not recommended to consume CBD before driving.

Since CBD is known for its calming and relaxing properties, driving isn't the ideal time to unwind. If you drive regularly, we recommend spacing your CBD intake at least four hours apart from your driving time.

Take precautions and use common sense. Moments of relaxation and unwinding shouldn't take place on the road. Don't put your life or the lives of others at risk. Instead, consume responsibly and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of CBD at home when you have the time.

To limit the risk of a positive saliva test, turn to non-smokable products such as CBD oils or infusions.