Many people interested in the potential health benefits of hemp-sourced CBD oil delay making a purchase. They hesitate because there are numerous product options, thousands of product descriptions to decipher, and hundreds of potential vendors to choose from. With so many significant variables to consider, it is often difficult for people to feel confident making a product selection. This is understandable.

Of course, when you decide to invest in CBD, you want to know that you are getting a quality CBD product at a reasonable price. Maybe we can help clear the confusion by detailing some of the many important considerations to keep in mind when buying CBD oil.  

What to Consider When Buying CBD Oil

Step 1: Most CBD Sold Online is Hemp-Sourced

It is not unusual for people to be a bit uncomfortable when they first learn that CBD is extracted from hemp and marijuana plants. Here is some clarification on the difference between CBD extracted from hemp and CBD extracted from marijuana. 

To Purchase Marijuana CBD

• You would likely need to purchase marijuana sourced CBD from a dispensary. That’s because marijuana contains high levels of THC (5-30 percent) and is considered a schedule 1 drug due to its psychoactive and intoxicating effects. The legality of marijuana varies by state, and purchase often requires a doctor’s prescription.

To Purchase Hemp CBD

• Most of the CBD products sold online are extracted from hemp. The CBD from hemp does not contain enough THC to cause intoxication (less than 0.3 percent). That’s why vendors are free to sell their products in all states and do not require a prescription from a health care provider.

If you are not purchasing from a dispensary, you are likely purchasing hemp CBD oil. To verify the THC content falls within the specified parameters, be sure to shop with vendors who provide their batch testing information.

 

Step 2: Hemp Oil and CBD Oil are Interchangeable Terms

CBD is the scientific abbreviation for cannabidiol, the primary cannabinoid found in cannabis extract. It is likely when you are scouring the internet to buy CBD that you are using “CBD oil” in your search terms. When you land on product pages, you are likely finding CBD oil labeled as hemp oil or hemp supplements. This is not meant to cause additional confusion, but it often does.

Hemp oil contains the CBD you are looking for. While hemp oil is commonly referred to as CBD oil because it contains CBD; product manufacturers are somewhat limited in the way they are allowed to label their products. Hemp CBD and hemp oil are used interchangeably throughout the industry. The products to be wary of are made with hemp seed oil. Hemp seed oil does not contain CBD.  

 

Step 3: Considering the Number of Milligrams of CBD in Your Hemp Oil

When buying CBD oil, it’s important that you understand the significance of product potency. You will find that the amount of CBD you are paying for has little to do with the size of the bottle. A 15 ml bottle of CBD oil could contain only a few milligrams (mg) of CBD, or it could contain thousands.

Product potency is a significant consideration. It’s essential to know how many mg of CBD are in the hemp oil product you select. For example, a 30 ml bottle of CBD that contains 250 mg of cannabidiol (CBD) will be priced substantially lower than a 30 ml bottle that contains 1000 mg of CBD. When the CBD  is more concentrated, you will need to use less product per dose.

That’s why it’s so important to break down the price of each product and determine the cost per milligram of cannabidiol. Consider the following:

• Product A – 30 ML contains 250 mg CBD for $20 = $20 ÷250 = .08 per mg (8.33 mg per ml)

• Product B – 30 ML contains 1000 mg CBD for $60 = $60 ÷ 1000 = .06 per mg (33.33 mg per ml)

• Product C – 30 ML contains 2500 mg CBD for $120 = $120 ÷ 2500 = .05 per mg (83.33 mg per ml)

If you were aiming for 25 mg of CBD per dose, you would divide the number of mg of CBD in the bottle by 25. That means you would get 10 doses from product A, 40 from product B, and 100 doses from product C. This information could help you determine the best solution to fit your budget.

 

Step 4: Understanding the Differences Between Full-Spectrum CBD and CBD Isolate

Full-spectrum hemp CBD contains 113 cannabinoids as well as hundreds of potentially beneficial plant compounds. In full spectrum CBD oil, the potential benefits of each element are enhanced by the entourage effect. The entourage effect is typically used to explain how the components in CBD are magnified and multiplied by the effects of the others.

While the potential impact of full-spectrum CBD is greater than the sum of its parts, it also contains trace amounts of THC. While not enough to cause any psychoactive effect, some people are uncomfortable knowing that their CBD oil contains any amount of THC.

For those hesitant to ingest trace amounts of THC, CBD oil made from CBD isolate is often preferred. CBD isolate is essentially full-spectrum CBD oil that has been further purified leaving behind a white powder that is more than 99 percent pure CBD. Just a few of the benefits of CBD oil made from isolates include:

• Any trace amounts of THC are removed

• No odor of the original hemp plant

• No flavor to change the taste of your foods or beverages

• More control of the cannabidiol content of finished products

• The ability to incorporate higher levels of CBD per dose

• CBD oil from isolate is generally lower in price

Both products types can be beneficial. The selection of full-spectrum CBD oil or products made with CBD isolate is a personal decision. While some may consider full-spectrum products superior, there are many reasons a CBD isolate could be your product of choice.

 

Step 5: Selecting the Products to Suit Your Lifestyle

CBD tinctures are quite popular because they are versatile and easy to use. When using a CBD tincture, it’s important to shake the bottle before each dose. After shaking, compress the bulb of the dropper to fill the pipette with oil. Place drops under your tongue for a few seconds, allowing some of the cannabinoids to absorb into your bloodstream before swallowing. CBD oil can also be added to food or beverages. While many prefer using CBD oil tinctures, they are not your only option, CBD oil is also available in:

• CBD Capsules and Softgels – convenient use without having to measure dosages

• Topical CBD Oil – for targeting the potential benefits to specific areas

• CBD Suppositories – for those with difficulty swallowing, nausea, or stomach pain

• CBD Pet Products – so four-legged family members can experience the potential benefits of CBD

• CBD Vape Products – formulated for vapor inhalation, one of the most efficient delivery methods

 

Step 6: Understanding the Significance of Organic Farming Methods and CBD Oil Certification

Since hemp has the ability to draw toxins and contaminants from the soil, it’s important to buy CBD oil from manufacturers who rely on hemp grown with organic farming methods. Unless hemp is grown without chemical fertilizers and pesticides, the contaminants will end up in your CBD oil. The most reputable manufacturers insist on ensuring their products are free of contaminants by:

• Testing soil before planting to ensure the soil is free of toxins

• Planting hemp seeds that have not been exposed to chemicals

• Growing seeds that have not been genetically manipulated (non-GMO)

• Growing hemp without the use of harmful pesticides or herbicides

• Growing and processing hemp plants without antibiotics or radiation

While reputable vendors are aware of the significance of growing hemp using organic farming methods, hemp crops are not typically certified organic. You need to know that CBD oil does not qualify to be certified as an organic product. In order to receive organic certification, a product must fall under the jurisdiction of the FDA. Hemp products are not regulated by the FDA. If a product manufacturer claims their CBD oil is certified organic, they are misrepresenting their products.

 

Step 7: Verifying The Potency and Purity of Your CBD Oil

When you buy CBD oil, you want to be sure you are getting a safe, quality product. You can verify the purity and potency of the hemp oil you purchase by trusting vendors who insist on having their products tested by a neutral third-party facility. This ensures that the product you select is as pure and potent as the product description claims. When manufacturers are willing to provide the results of their batch testing, you can be confident in your purchasing decision.  

 

Step 8: Knowing the Reputation of the Company You’re Buying CBD Oil From

CBDistillery is a prominent leader in the health and wellness industry. When you select products from CBDistillery, you are choosing products that are manufactured by a company that is in control of every aspect of production from pre-planting soil testing, extraction to the packaging and distribution of the finished product. You can view the batch testing information located within the images of every product we offer. For high quality, fairly priced CBD oil online, you can trust CBDistillery.

CBD: Understanding the Basics of Hemp Oil

 

Hemp has been cultivated for industrial use throughout the ages, used in the production of canvas, cloth, rope, and paper for centuries. These industrial products are typically created from the hemp plants strong, durable fibers.

The fact that hemp is a cannabis plant has fueled the controversy and confusion surrounding hemp-derived products for many years. For a while, it wasn’t even legal to grow hemp in the US. Fortunately, those times have changed.

Today, there is a significant amount of interest in the oil extracted from this multi-purpose plant. Hemp oil, CBD, is shown to offer a multitude of potential health benefits. We can help you understand the basics of this fascinating, natural product.

 

Cannabis Use Without the High

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the 113 potentially beneficial cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Some people are initially uncomfortable learning that CBD comes from cannabis, but we can assure you that there is no cause for alarm. There are two potential CBD sources, hemp, and marijuana. You may be reassured by the following:

 

• The CBD Extracted from Marijuana

  The CBD extracted from marijuana contains high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), as much as 30 percent. THC is the cannabinoid that causes marijuana’s psychoactive effects. It’s because of the THC that marijuana is classified as a schedule 1 drug. While the laws regulating marijuana use vary by state, typically marijuana is only available when prescribed by a health care provider.

 

• The CBD Extracted from Hemp

  While hemp is cannabis, the CBD extracted from hemp does not contain high levels of THC. The government is very clear on acceptable THC levels. To qualify as hemp, the plant needs to contain .3 percent THC or less. Even if you consume a large quantity of hemp oil, the likelihood of feeling “high” is very unlikely. Because there are no risks of THC interfering with your cognitive abilities or motor skills, hemp oil is available without a prescription.

 

Hemp Oil and CBD Are Interchangeable Terms

CBD is the abbreviation for cannabidiol, one of the more prominent cannabinoids found in cannabis extract. When you are searching for hemp-sourced CBD products, you will likely find CBD also referred to as hemp oil.

Hemp oil contains CBD. Consumers are looking for hemp-sourced CBD products. You may need to know that “CBD oil” and “hemp oil” are terms used interchangeably within the industry. Since CBD manufacturers are not able to include the term “CBD oil” on their product labels, products are often labeled as “hemp oil” or “hemp supplements”, and specify the amount of cannabidiol (CBD) they contain.

 

There is No CBD in Hemp Seed Oil

While reputable manufacturers will identify their products as CBD or hemp oil, you need to be aware of one more significant point. CBD is a cannabinoid found in the whole plant milled biomass of hemp plants. Hemp seed oil is the oil pressed from the seeds of the plant. There is no cannabidiol (CBD) in hemp seed oil.

When you are considering purchasing a hemp oil product, it’s essential to note the product ingredients. A quality CBD product will specify how many milligrams of cannabidiol it contains. For example, when you are searching for a CBD tincture, you will likely have a choice of several levels of potency, 250 mg, 500 mg, 1000 mg or more of CBD in a 15-30 ml bottle. Capsules will be labeled according to the mg per tablet. If the amount of cannabidiol in a product is not specified, consider purchasing a different product.

 

Methods of Extracting CBD from Hemp

The methods used to extract CBD are the same as the processes used to extract many other essential oils.  While there are several extraction methods that would work, it’s important to use an extraction method that results in a product suitable for consumption.  The methods most commonly used to extract CBD from hemp plant matter include:

 

• CO2 Extraction

  Under heavy compression, carbon dioxide converts to a liquid form using a series of pressure and temperature-controlled chambers. During CO2 extraction, CO2 dissolves the plant molecules, separating the plant matter from the oil. The liquid CO2 then converts back to its gaseous state and disburses.

 

• Ethanol Extraction

  Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, is a common food additive and preservative. The use of ethyl alcohol is a form of chemical extraction. At low temperatures, ethanol extraction also removes unwanted chlorophyll.

 

 

The Science Behind the Potential Benefits of CBD

It’s important to understand that hemp oil is not a medication or cure for any health problems, but it is a potentially beneficial dietary supplement. While results are preliminary, laboratory tests and animal studies seem to confirm the benefits of CBD for endocannabinoid support.

Your endocannabinoids system is what researchers call the network of messengers and receptors that regulate nearly every vital function in your body. Cannabinoids are the messengers of this system. The cannabinoids that your body produces on its own are called endocannabinoids. These naturally occurring cannabinoids bind with your endocannabinoid receptors to trigger the appropriate responses. Just a few of the processes regulated by your endocannabinoid system include:

 

• Stress responses
• Sleep and sleep cycle regulation
• Pain perception and inflammation
• Circulatory and digestive functions
• Processes of the reproductive systems
• Immune system function
• Memory and learning
• Muscle movement and neuroprotection
• Moods and emotions

 

Ideally, your body would make all the endocannabinoids it needs to keep your communication system functioning smoothly. Unfortunately, the endocannabinoids produced in your body (anandamide and 2-AG) are broken down quickly. There are times when your body may need more endocannabinoids than it has available. Without enough messengers, the receptors do not receive vital information. This can result in a system imbalance. Some researchers now believe that disease is the result of endocannabinoid system deficiencies, the failure of the body to maintain homeostasis.

 

Supplementing Your Endocannabinoid System with Hemp Oil

Cannabinoids influence the receptors of your endocannabinoid system. The cannabinoids in CBD mimic the effects of your body’s endocannabinoids, essentially alleviating the effects of any endocannabinoid deficiencies, potentially restoring balance to your endocannabinoid system.

Understanding the basics of hemp oil and the potential benefits of supplementing your endocannabinoid system can help you make informed purchasing decisions. To learn more about the many potential benefits of hemp oil, visit CBDistillery. Download The Ultimate CBD User Guide to learn more about CBD extraction and the importance of selecting organic, non-GMO CBD products. We offer a quality selection of CBD tinctures, topical ointments, capsules, and CBD pet products; batch tested to verify product potency and purity.

What is CBD Wax Exactly?

 

While CBD is most commonly thought of in its oil form, there are various extract forms of CBD hemp products. Like all things CBD-related, for reasons not pertinent to this discussion, the education and information regarding CBD products have been muted or muffled. One of those products is CBD wax.

CBD wax, despite its lack of acclaim, is nearly as available and common as CBD oil. Is wax better, better for certain applications and uses, are they interchangeable? These and many questions will probably arise once you begin investigating CBD waxes. Let’s start with the basics…

CBD Wax – What It Is

We know that candles are made of wax. There are also other common uses for wax like crayons, beeswax, and even everyday lip balm uses wax. With CBD the extracts will form as an opaque oil. These oils are more solidified (resulting from a crystallization of the oils) than most typical oils. With regards to CBD wax, however, like most waxes, it can take on a varying number of forms.

The “purging” process is what defines the variations in the texture, moisture and various aspects of the resulting wax. Purging hemp-based CBD is essentially a crystallization process of nucleated fat lipids.

The Different Types of CBD Wax

If you aren’t well versed in the CBD industry, you will probably be surprised to find very few products actually labeled just, CBD “wax.” What you will find, are labels such as “Wax,” “CBD budder,” or “CBD Crumble.” Don’t worry, this isn’t as confusing or as complex as it sounds.

These are all forms of CBD wax, each label is simply indicative of a particular type of wax form. Going slightly deeper, the advantage of our CBD wax and our process is that unlike isolate products, the terpenes come through naturally rather than being added.

All of our waxes are made through chromatography, meaning there is 0% THC in our wax. Hemp-based CBD products are great options for those looking for a 0% THC product but with terpenes and other natural, minor cannabinoids that offer so many benefits…

The Entourage Effect

One of those benefits is known as the “entourage effect,” and it is availed through CBD products that contain those aforementioned cannabinoids. The principle is that these cannabinoids work with and promote each other, in effect creating an interactive synergy between them.

Here is a quick look at the methods and the various labels you will find when searching for CBD wax…

CBD Wax

Waxes like our newest 80% Broad Spectrum for our cannabis connoisseurs is a delightful mix of CBD and CBG. CBD Budder and Crumble have their perks as we will see but traditional wax has always been convenient and versatile. Like the best CBD products, it is pure and natural for all your CBD needs in a convenient wax form.

CBD Budder

More like the consistency you would find in your everyday cooking butter found in the kitchen, this form was aptly dubbed “Budder.” CBD Budder is produced by using greater temperatures and increased air pressure during the purging process. CBD Budder, as you might expect, is fluffier and waxier but no less potent.

CBD Crumble

Apologies for those of you who aren’t fans but try to picture feta cheese. In many ways similar to that texture and how it crumbles, this was adorned the label CBD “Crumble.” While this wax is derived from a more typical extraction process, the difference is that this wax uses a pre-purged oil. That pre-purged CBD oil contains more moisture is a heavier, thicker oil. This produces the unique wax texture of Crumble, which is also known for having a distinct flavor.

Using CBD Wax

Is it edible? Is it effective topically, will my skin absorb it? How do us use CBD wax exactly?

While wax is edible, oil is likely a better and healthier option. Provided the wax form contains some acting solvent, yes your skin can absorb it. There are specific products on the market for just that purpose. Typically speaking, if the wax isn’t specified for or designed to be a type of rub or ointment, it is likely intended for vaping.

Vaping CBD Wax

If you vape or if you are familiar with the CBD or hemp world, the term “dabbing” is something you are probably familiar with or know about. It is simply the process of heating the wax and placing a small pellet-sized amount on your pen coil. The wax then vaporizes upon heating and hence, users are now vaping as the inhale.

The Benefits of CBD Wax

Despite any claims promoting CBD use from the medical community, users have reported experiencing many positive benefits. These have been reported by users to range from reducing symptoms of specific ailments to overall benefits from daily use.

What is the Best CBD Wax for You?

Everyone is different, from our chemistry to our DNA to how our body processes and digests, which means the best wax form for you will most likely depend on you. Experiment with what best works for you and what techniques have the most desired impact. Vape, roll, oils or ointments – your body and how you respond will tell you what works – and what works best.

CBD oils and isolates are the initial result of extracting CBD from the plant. While these oils are then purged to produce wax, the potency remains intact and the effectiveness of oil versus wax is dependent on the user.

CBD wax is just another way to experience the benefits of this amazing new industry and it could be the best way for you to experience CBD – but that’s for you to decide. Wax, Budder or Crumble – there is likely a CBD product perfect for you!

CBD: Clarifying the Significance of Organic Hemp

Choosing organic products, and products grown using organic practices reduces your exposure to potentially dangerous chemicals. Many people looking to limit their exposure to chemicals and pesticides are also interested in natural health and wellness products, leading them on a path to discovering the many potential benefits of CBD.

CBD is a natural supplement. Its extensive list of potential health benefits is due to its ability to mimic the functions of the neurotransmitters produced by your body. Since CBD is a plant extract, it’s important to be sure the products you select are of the highest quality, and while it is important to select products derived from plants grown with organic methods, there are other important considerations when choosing a CBD product.

 

A Natural Supplement for Endocannabinoid Support

CBD is extracted from cannabis plants. There are two potential sources, hemp, and marijuana. Since CBD sourced from hemp contains only trace amounts (less than .3 percent) of THC, you get all the potential health benefits of cannabis without the risk of intoxication.

Supplementing with natural cannabis products can support your endocannabinoid system. This is the system of neurotransmitters and receptors that facilitate the communication between your body and your brain.

While the function of this system is not entirely understood, researchers now believe that this vital system potentially regulates and stabilizes the processes in your body known as homeostasis. Just some of the functions regulated by your endocannabinoid system include:

 

• Immune system function
• Pain and inflammation
• Mood, memory, and learning
• Temperature regulation
• Cardiovascular
• Neurodevelopment and neuroprotection
• The reproductive processes
• Digestive processes

 

Ideally, your body would produce all the neurotransmitters necessary to keep this system functioning efficiently. But the neurotransmitters made by your body break down quickly. When these messengers are depleted, the communication system can fail. CBD supplements your endocannabinoid system by mimicking the functions of the messengers (endocannabinoids) produced by your body.

 

Quality Hemp is Grown Using Organic Methods

You may have noticed during your investigation on the potential benefits of CBD, that you often see manufacturers highlighting the fact that their product is sourced from organic hemp, or hemp grown using organic practices. These are significant statements, for good reason.

The soil which hemp grows in needs to be free of harmful chemicals and pesticides. Hemp plants have the ability to draw contaminants from the soil it grows in. Hemp growers are well aware of this. Unless hemp is grown in soil that is free of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, those compounds will make their way into the finished product. Reputable CBD manufacturers insist upon using hemp plants grown with organic farming methods. Typically, organic practices involve:

 

• Growing hemp in soil proven to be free of existing toxins
• Growing hemp without the use of chemical pesticides and herbicides
• Planting seeds that have not been genetically altered (non-GMO)
• Planting seeds that have not been exposed to or modified by chemicals
• Growing crops without the use of antibiotics
• Growing and processing hemp without radiation

 

After decades of banning the cultivation of hemp, the US Farm Bill of 2014 once again allowed for hemp cultivation in the US. Even though hemp can be grown legally in many states, the organic certification process for hemp and hemp products is still a source of controversy and confusion.

Typically, hemp crops are not certified. Although many cannabis growers have taken a particular interest in having their crops certified as organic, many accredited agents are hesitant to certify hemp crops. Their hesitancy may be because of the lack of clarity in the approval processes regarding hemp. It could also be due to the confusion surrounding the federal jurisdiction of hemp and hemp products.

 

Meeting the Standards for Organic Certification

The term “organic” is owned by our government. Any product labeled as “USDA Certified organic” must undergo official certification by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). It can take many years and thousands of dollars to complete the certification process.  

 

CBD Does Not Qualify to Be Certified as a USDA Certified Organic Product

Even if organic hemp, domestic or imported, were to be used to extract CBD, and all of the carrier oils and flavors are derived from certified organic sources, CBD products cannot be certified as a USDA Certified Organic product. That’s because any certifiable products need to fall within the jurisdiction of the FDA. Since CBD products are not FDA regulated, the products cannot be labeled organic.

 

Alternate Methods of Verifying Purity and Potency

CBD is a natural product, so you’ll want to be sure that your product manufacture adheres to the best possible practices. While CBD products cannot be certified as USDA organic due to FDA regulations, you will still want to be sure that your CBD is made from non-GMO, pesticide-free hemp.

To ensure the safety and potency of your CBD, rely on retailers who are willing to disclose their batch testing results and extraction methods. You should also look for CBD products that contain natural carrier oils.

Visit CBDistillery for a quality assortment of safe, pure, CBD products including tinctures, topicals, capsules, and CBD vape products. The purity and potency of our non-psychoactive hemp sourced products are available for viewing within the photograph section of every product.

 

 

You may be wondering how using CBD products effects drug screenings, if at all. Luckily, we’ve done the research for you and have the information you need. Before we get into all the little details and science behind drug panels and how they react with CBD, let’s first discuss the different classifications of CBD.

When it comes to CBD products, the most commonly sold are full spectrum and isolate based. These can also commonly be known as pure, but in this article, but, for simplicity purposes, we will stick to the term “full spectrum” and “isolate based”.

Full Spectrum

Full spectrum is a product derived from the seeds and stems of hemp plants, which contains a combination of CBD, natural plant terpenes and cannabinoids such as CBG (cannabigerol), CBN (cannabinol) and less than 0.3% THC. Just like CBD, these other cannabinoids and terpenes are naturally occurring in hemp and marijuana plants. Full spectrum products include oils, topical, and softgels among other options.

So what could this mean for CBD users concerned with drug screenings? Here’s where it gets tricky. Hemp-derived CBD products contain less than 0.3% percent THC. While there is no risk of intoxication or feel “high” from CBD products with these trace amounts of THC, that does not mean you are completely “safe” if screened. Even small trace amounts of THC can be picked up.

Isolate Based

CBD users faced with routine drug screenings often turn to isolate products. The term “isolate” comes from the extraction process by which CBD is actually isolated from other elements and what remains should be pure CBD and nothing else. Most products claim to be around 99% pure. Which means some trace amount of other cannabinoids, including THC, could remain. When looking into isolate CBD, numbers make the difference. Products containing 99.9% CBD are less likely to have identifiable amounts of THC. Anything with 99.5% or less will contain higher trace amounts. There’s no guarantee either way, but the purer the CBD the less likely a drug screen will pick up any amounts of THC.

How drug screens work

For the purpose of this article, we’ll refer to the most commonly used test. The UDS, or urine drug screen, is used more often due to its convenience, cost and pain-free procedure. The UDS analyzes urine for illegal and certain prescription drug usage. The test usually screens for amphetamines, methamphetamines, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, marijuana, cocaine, PCP, methadone, and opioids (narcotics). Though typically screened through a breathalyzer (breath test) a UDS can also detect alcohol usage.

There are two forms of tests used for urine screening. Immunoassay tests give rapid results and are more cost-effective, but have a higher likelihood of giving false positives. A false positive is when a UDS shows positive for drugs when none were in the patient’s system. This type of screening also doesn’t pick up on all forms of opioids.

The next, more expensive test, is the gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) test. It works very similarly to the immunoassay, but requires more time and rarely results in false positives. Either test can produce a false negative. This is where no drugs are detected by the UDS, even though the patient had drugs in their system.

The immunoassay UDS doesn’t actually measure drugs. This test detects how drugs react within the patient’s immune system to determine it’s ability to build antigen-antibody complexes. The test has a cutoff limit, expressed in nanograms per milliliter (ng/ml). Any amount above the cutoff number results in a positive screening.

Here’s one issue with the immunoassay UDS. With instant results, the individual administering the test doesn’t usually add the numeric values of the ng/ml to their findings. Typically, a simple positive or negative result is sent back to the party requesting the test. This is because most immunoassay screens don’t include the ng/ml percentages. More often than not there’s a simple test strip that turns a different color to indicate the presence of specific drugs.

When asked to complete a UDS, it’s good to note the potential for false positives. If you’re certain there are no drugs in your system, and your screening produced a positive result, you should inquire as to which UDS was used. If results were instant, it was most likely an immunoassay test. If this was the case, be sure to request a second screening utilizing a GC/MS.

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) tests are used to detect and study trace amounts of chemicals, as low 0.000000000001 gram. Gas chromatography (GC) works to analyze and separate various components in a substance, such as urine, to then test the purity of that substance and/or identify a specific compound. Mass spectrometry (MS) categorizes ions based on their mass. An MS analysis can be used in complex as well as pure samples. Together, put in simpler terms, the GC/MS measures the amounts of chemicals in a given sample by comparing it to a pre-measured standard (or clean) sample.

So which CBD product is safe?

Although pure isolate CBD should contain very little if any amounts of THC, there’s never a guarantee that any cannabinoid is “safe” when it comes to drug screening. Because any hemp plant may contain THC, the active compound drug screens are designed to detect when testing for marijuana, any CBD product can still have at least trace amounts of THC which can ultimately lead to a positive screening regardless of how small the chance of that happening is.

It is less likely that a UDS would show positive for THC with a patient taking pure isolate CBD, than perhaps full-spectrum products, but the only way to be completely safe would be to stop all usage of any substances prior to your scheduled screening. Still, this is not a promise that your screening will come back negative, but it is not a bad idea to stop usage at least ten days (if not longer) before a urine test if possible.

Now that you better understand some of the terms of our industry, visit CBDistillery to view our quality selection of CBD products. While you are there, feel free to download The Ultimate CBD User Guide to learn more about the potential benefits of CBD, and how CBD could benefit your health and well-being.