CBD is becoming more trendy by the day. This popular cannabinoid is known for its wide array of health and wellness benefits. Although the cannabis compound isn’t intoxicating, many individuals are concerned about the possible side effects, especially when it comes to being behind the wheel.
Whether or not it’s safe and legal to drive after using CBD is a sensible question. While for the most part, it’s safe, there are a few concerns that users should be aware of to avoid getting into any trouble on the road.
Cannabidiol: An Overview
To what extent CBD is legal depends on a number of parameters. Here are the key facts. While cannabis use is traditionally associated with users ‘getting high’ this is not the case with CBD. This chemical compound is one of the hundreds found in the cannabis plant, but unlike its counterpart THC, it’s not psychoactive.
Recent studies have shown that CBD offers symptomatic relief such as anti-anxiety, anti-seizure, anti-tumor, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. Users that consume the molecule recreationally do so because it induces feelings of relaxation, calm, and clarity.
CBD & The Brain
While CBD is not classified as psychoactive, it can impact mood and alertness because it causes catalyzing alterations in brain chemistry.
One of the reasons why CBD is useful for anti-anxiety is because it affects brain serotonin levels when consumed in high doses. It also works as a reuptake inhibitor, which means it raises levels of anandamide, which is an endocannabinoid receptor.
CBD & The Road
So what does this mean for drivers who use CBD? When consumed, the molecule increases relaxation and decreases excitability. While there’s no intoxicating effect, it does alter your mood. For most people, this won’t affect their ability to drive.
That being said, it’s important to note that some people may experience side-effects from the cannabinoid that could potentially affect driving capability. Some users report that CBD causes low blood pressure, lightheadedness, and drowsiness.
Since the potential effects vary from person to person, it’s vital that you get used to CBD and understand how it impacts your mental state before you take it and go for a drive. If you feel tired or out-of-it, you shouldn’t get behind the wheel.
Talk to your doctor and discuss the potential reasons that you’re experiencing these side-effects. The solution could be as simple as modifying your dosage. Lower amounts may not result in sedating effects.
Most individuals will be fine taking CBD and driving; others may not. Instead of figuring out how it affects you behind the wheel, please test it out in the comfort of your own home.
Key Concerns
Even though CBD can take upwards of 20 minutes to have an effect it typically doesn’t affect users’ ability to operate a vehicle, there are some concerns to be taken into account. Many CBD oils contain small amounts of THC. Usually, the amounts are so small that they don’t cause any intoxicating effect unless you consume the oil in high quantities.
Whether or not you feel the effects of the small traces of THC, you might still be at risk of being prosecuted for driving under the influence. Many jurisdictions have strict zero-tolerance laws when it comes to THC in the blood of drivers.
If you’re pulled over, the police may conduct a test using your saliva. In this case, small quantities may result in fines or license suspension. When you’re buying a CBD product, make sure that you check the sale page to find out all of the details, including the concentration of THC.
The Verdict
While taking CBD generally doesn’t result in any euphoric high, some people experience side effects that may impact their ability to drive. Make sure that you’re aware of the composition of your CBD remedy, and you know how it affects you before you get behind the wheel.
