CBD, or cannabidiol, has become very normalized in mainstream cannabis markets. Just a few years prior, the prevalence of CBD in stores was very low. But now, you’ll find all types of CBD products in stores and online - from CBD tinctures, CBD balms and gummies, and the latest innovation of CBD-infused alcohol. Now, certain spots have CBD infused beverages that at first make you wonder, “what is up with this?” before wanting to take a sip. While there are some concerns about mixing CBD and alcohol, there’s more to it than just a simple black and white answer. Learn more about mixing CBD and alcohol and what the effects could potentially be from consuming CBD and mixing alcohol into your system.
What happens when mixing CBD and alcohol?
First and foremost, it is usually never a good idea to mix alcohol and any other substance as alcohol intensifies the intoxicated feelings that one experiences from drinking. However, CBD is usually a fast acting agent when used to try and counteract feelings of intoxication. For example, CBD often counteracts the psychoactive effects of marijuana, so why would it not do the same with alcohol?
While some experience amplified effects when mixing CBD and alcohol, it is important to note that everybody is different and reacts in various ways. There is no telling what mixing CBD and alcohol will specifically do to a person, however there have been studies that show it can be a promising mixture that actually helps your body more than harm it. Many studies in both humans and animals have shown that CBD can actually lessen the side effects of alcohol, making the consumption of alcohol more bearable with a counteracting agent like CBD.
There is limited information on health statistics when using CBD and alcohol, however CBD does have the reputation to be compatible with just about any substance. You always want to have CBD on hand in case you feel out of control and need to find balance again, which makes CBD-infused alcohol up and coming in popularity.
What should you not mix CBD with?
It is always recommended to consume alcohol in small doses to avoid the inevitable intoxicating effects, not to mention the next day hangover that is never fun to experience. Here are a few things you should not mix with CBD as it will most likely have a heavy effect and sedation on the user:
- Do not consume CBD in conjunction with over the counter medications that cause sleepiness
- Xanax, opioids, antidepressants, antihistamines (like Benadryl) will most likely lead to an amplified reaction
Since alcohol is a depressant, any excessive amount will always have an extreme effect that will lead to intoxication. Combined with CBD, the effects of alcohol will feel so much worse so balance is key.
CBD benefits mixed with alcohol
There have been studies and experiences where CBD was beneficial in situations where alcohol was involved. Some instances state that CBD in fact helps with alcoholics that are trying to recover and assists with relapse, slowly allowing addicts to become less dependent on drinking. While some studies show that CBD in fact helps to lower blood alcohol levels, when used with alcoholics there might be a risk where they turn towards CBD to replace their addiction. It is important to note that there is no evidence that CBD is addictive which is why most studies show that the majority of users experience positive effects and outcomes when continuously used in a person’s daily routine.
How to mix CBD and alcohol safely
With anything you consume, starting in small amounts is best because there is always room to add a little more. Similar to the logic of taking edibles, mixing CBD and alcohol should be done in small doses and WAIT. IT. OUT! Just when you think you might need to double dose or drink a bit more, you will most likely feel the effects so be patient.
A successful way of mixing CBD and alcohol is to take a dose of your favorite CBD tincture an hour before consuming alcohol. All you need to do is pop a few drops under your tongue while you’re getting ready for happy hour and you should start to feel calm and collected before you even arrive for your reservation. This also helps with social anxiety so you don’t feel as if you need to drink as much to feel comfortable.
What CBD to buy
Are you wanting to try mixing CBD and alcohol to see if the mixture might work for you? Again, it is recommended to consult with a medical professional prior to consuming anything and every new thing should be taken in small doses to gauge a user’s tolerance level. If tinctures aren’t your thing, there is a whole line of CBD products to buy where you can choose from CBD flower, travel-friendly CBD pills, and more!
