Given the recent rise in CBD use amongst American civilians, it’s only natural for those in the US Armed Forces would be curious to try hemp-infused drinks, oils, or creams. After all, CBD is so ubiquitous nowadays. Plus, since CBD is non-psychoactive, it can’t interfere with work — right?
Although the 2018 US Farm Bill legalized CBD products in the USA, these laws don’t apply to every profession. It’s essential for those serving in the Armed Forces to review the latest policies from the Department of Defense (DoD). Official military laws will always supersede the civilian policies on hemp and CBD consumption.
So, Can People In The Military Take CBD Oil?
According to the DoD, people serving in the US Armed Forces cannot take hemp-derived products. It doesn’t matter if CBD oils, beverages, or gummies have zero THC concentration — the military code clearly states CBD is a violated product.
The DoD is most concerned with CBD oils containing minute traces of the federally illegal compound delta-9 THC. Even though high-quality CBD extracts should have ≤ 0.3 percent delta-9 THC, that’s enough for some people to fail a drug test. Since the military doesn’t distinguish delta-9 from hemp or marijuana, soldiers could lose their job from a false positive reading.
Of course, if a soldier leaves active duty and returns to the civilian workforce, it’s OK to use hemp-derived CBD products. Remember that CBD products may interfere with a drug screening, especially if you’re taking full-spectrum CBD oils. Always double-check an employer’s drug policy before experimenting with CBD oil during a workweek.
For those who wish to consult the US Army’s official CBD policies, you could read through the Army Regulation 600-85.
Does CBD Have Any Benefits For US Veterans?
On the subject of CBD for the US Army, it’s worth mentioning some scientists believe this cannabinoid could have therapeutic potential for those struggling with PTSD. Indeed, there are already a few clinical trials evaluating CBD’s effectiveness for this issue.
For instance, a trial out of Colorado’s Rocky Vista University evaluated CBD on a group of PTSD patients. According to these findings, CBD appeared to help PTSD patients reduce daytime anxiety and nighttime terrors. Keep in mind that this trial was small and patients were still getting regular psychiatric care during the trial.
If veterans have PTSD, they should speak with a trusted physician about adding CBD to their therapy. CBD can interact with other medications like antidepressants, so it’s important to ask a medical professional before using CBD for any health condition. With proper medical supervision, CBD may be an excellent option for the many soldiers struggling to adjust to civilian life.
Only Civilians Should Try CBD!
If you’re in the US Military, please stay away from hemp products. Only American civilians should consider using one of the many hemp-derived CBD items in today’s market.
For more clarity on which CBD products meet the US 2018 Farm Bill’s standards, we’d recommend starting on Real Tested CBD. There are dozens of unbiased & science-based reviews of the most significant CBD brands on our website. Please evaluate each of these CBD products before spending your hard-earned money.
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