CBD stays in the body for 2 to 5 days on average. But CBD can linger in some people’s system for weeks. The length of time depends on a number of factors:

  • How much of it you use. The larger the amount, the longer it will stay in your system.
  • How frequently you use it. The amount of time it stays in your body is partly the result of how often you use it. Taking it regularly will allow it to build up in your body over time. This is why it is suggested that you use it for at least a week to see if it is beneficial to you. It will leave your body faster if you only use it once in a while.

Every person is unique in their physical make-up, and different drugs have different effects on different people. The amount of time it stays in anyone’s body results from a combination of factors. These can include your water content, body mass index, and metabolism.

Food Affects Absorption

It’s important to pay attention to how much, what, and when you eat. This is because CBD is processed faster when taken on an empty stomach than when taken on a full stomach, which slows digestion.

Methods of Application

CBD can be taken in a variety of ways. Therefore, the onset and duration of effects and how long it stays in your body are affected by the method of use you choose.

CBD comes in a variety of forms. These can include:

  • Drinks
  • Capsules and tablets
  • Tinctures and oils
  • Lotions and creams
  • Edibles
  • Vaping products

When you vape CBD, it immediately enters your lungs, takes effect, and leaves your body. However, tinctures and oils taken under the tongue absorb faster but last longer in the bloodstream.

Edible or drinkable versions of CBD take some time to metabolize in your digestive system. Lotions and creams get directly applied to areas for targeted effects.

How long before CBD takes effect?

The effect of CBD in the body fluctuates depending on the same factors that impact the length of time CBD stays in your system. The type of CBD you are using, the amount you take, and your body composition all have a role in determining how quickly CBD kicks in and how it affects you. However, generally, within a few minutes of taking CBD you should start to feel the effect.

Can CBD oil cause you not to pass a drug test?

Drug tests check for THC metabolites in the body. These tests are not looking for CBD. However, full spectrum CBD can legally contain up to 0.3% THC, and even “THC free” CBD products may contain small but undetectable amounts of THC.

Depending on the sensitivity of the test and frequency and dosage consumed, we would not advise taking any CBD products if THC is part of your drug panel screen, as there is potential to fail the test. Therefore, make sure that you know the source of your CBD. Marijuana products contain a significant amount of THC. In addition, they will be visible on a drug test.

*This author is not an attorney, doctor, or lab technician and the information in this post should not be construed as legal or medical advice.