HHC vs CBN, which will make you fail a drug test?

Apr 4, 2023

New cannabinoids bring high hopes of getting around positive THC results on drug tests. CBN and its relation to CBD brings new online inquiries, including “will I pass my test if I am only using HHC or CBN isolate?” CBN is a mildly psychoactive byproduct of the THC that you know and love, so there is a real risk that it will result in a failed drug test. 

Other people think that it is the CBN in HHC products that make you fail a drug test; however, that is not true. Spoiler alert: Both Delta 8 and HHC will result in a failed drug test result, whether CBN is present or not. We’ve previously outlined the drug test interactions of Delta 8 and HHC, so if you’re curious to know more about those ‘noids, check out our other blog posts. To learn more about CBN and what the effects are, read more below.

What is CBN, and how does it affect your body?

CBN stands for Cannabinol and is found in cannabis. To put it in perspective, in regards to CBN vs Delta 8, Delta 8 is quite psychoactive (though not as much as Delta 9) while CBN has mildly psychoactive effects. Like the highly psychoactive THC, CBN is derived from tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THC-A). CBN is created when THC oxides. Think of it like THC-lite.

New research shows that CBN has a positive impact on pain management, with those experiencing Rheumatoid arthritis and chronic post-operative pain. CBN is most known for gaining popularity as a powerful sleep aid. CBN also stimulates appetite and helps with pain relief. While it may have similar effects to CBD, the mildly psychoactive component sets it apart. 

 Related Article: https://www.crescolabs.com/cannabinoids/cbn/

Drug tests debunked: Will CBN show up?

We ganja be real with you… Yes, it will.

For individuals that face routine drug tests like government workers, even tiny amounts of THC risk a failed result. As CBN is a byproduct of THC, there’s a higher risk that the test will be positive. This remains the case with CBN as an isolate, meaning no other cannabinoids are present.

Recently, University of Utah researchers ran tests aimed to understand when “false positives” would arise with CBD, CBN, CBC, and CBG. Of these four cannabinoids, CBN had a significant crossover when it came to creating a positive result on the test. According to the Journal of Applied Laboratory Medicine, Cannabinoil (CBN) cross-reacts with two urine immunoassays designed to detect Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) metabolite. 

What are metabolites, and how do drug tests work?

There are many options for testing for cannabis usage. From urinalysis, otherwise known as a urine test, to blood, hair, and saliva tests. Urinalysis is the most common form of drug testing, and the only method approved by the federal government for mandatory testing. It screens for marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines and methamphetamines, PCP, and opiates. 

As CBN has THC in it, this is where results would come up positive. Contrary to what some people may think, standard urine tests don’t screen for the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in cannabis, but rather, they detect the metabolites created by the human body when we are exposed to THC. Metabolites are the breakdown products of substances that remain in the body after the effects have worn off.

How Long Will CBN Stay In Your System?

How long CBN stays in your system depends on personal factors, including age, metabolism, hydration, and frequency of use. While the length of time that CBN is in your system is not widely studied, according to Vida Optima CBD, CBN oil typically will stay in your system for up to 5 days.” 

We know more about THC in the system, and since CBN is a byproduct of THC, this could be a safer guide when it comes to test results. According to Healthline, THC can show up in your system for the following timeframes:

  • Single use: 3 days
  • Moderate use (four times per week): 5 to 7 days
  • Chronic use (daily): 10 to 15 days
  • Chronic heavy use (multiple times per day): more than 30 days

That is all to say, we do not recommend taking CBN if you have a drug test on the horizon.

Use CBN for better sleep

 

Looking to incorporate CBN into your wellness routine? CBN may have benefits for insomniacs, as it is best known for sedative effects. That’s why it is well suited to Mellow Fellow’s Dream, Introvert, and Tranquility blends.

Best used for sleep, Dali’s Dream blend is meant to help you unwind. Dream brings a sleepy, restorative and gentle energy to your body. This blend to transport you to a place of serenity and zen, drifting off to a sleep that will not only make you sleep but dream.

Banksy’s Introvert and O’Keefe’s Tranquility blend are less sleep focused, and will still give you that relaxed feeling. The Tranquility blend focused on your peace of mind with a mild head high. The Introvert blend expands your mind while also inducing relaxation, making it perfect for individuals with social anxiety. 


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