A common question CBD Pharm get asked is will CBD oil affect my driving? So, does’ CBD oil and driving mix? With CBD still been new to the world and needing more scientific evidence, there is still myths, misinformation etc going round.

What is CBD?

CBD is 1 of 113 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant and accounts for up to 40% of the plants extract. What does CBD oil stand for? CBD oil stands for cannabidiol. It’s a natural occurring substance that’s used in products like oils and edibles to impart a feeling of relaxation and calm. Unlike it’s cousin, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the active ingredient. CBD and THC are the main cannabinoids in the hemp plant.

How doe’s CBD work?

Cannabidiol works by entering the body and connecting to receptors. These receptors are called CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptor plays the role in helping with health and disease, cardiovascular and motor control and are primarily located on nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Whereas CB2 receptors helps with the immune system by managing pain and inflammation. CB2 receptors are mainly found on white blood cells, in the tonsils and in the spleen.

For more information on how CBD works: Click here.

Is CBD oil legal in the UK?

In the UK, cannabidiol (CBD) is classed as legal as long as it contains no more than 0.2% THC, which is a controlled substance under the Misuse of drugs Act 1971. It must also be derived from an industrial hemp strain that is EU-approved or comes from outside the EU.

So, CBD oil and driving: will it affect me?

CBD oil is non-psychoactive meaning it doesn’t affect you unlike its cousin THC. THC is the psychoactive compound that everyone associates with cannabis. THC gives you the ‘high’ sensation, however CBD must contain less than 0.2% of THC to be legal in the UK. Giving the fact CBD has minimal traces of THC it will not effect your driving.