Cannabidiol (CBD), found in hemp plants, has become quite popular in the health industry these past few years and can be found in various products such as CBD oils, bath soaks, body lotions, and lip balms found in health stores, among others—mainly due to its many benefits. (Photo above by Gerrie van der Walt on Unsplash.)
Companies took advantage of this fad by creating CBD-infused shots, beers, and drinks. Yet, with the trend, many concerns have been raised regarding the safety of mixing alcohol and CBD. Can you mix CBD and alcohol? To understand the answer, let’s find out what usually may happen in your body and brain if CBD and alcohol mix. The article will explore the effects of mixing CBD with alcohol and the potential positive benefits and risks these present.
How Do Alcohol and CBD Affect the Body?
There is significantly less clinical evidence to support the debate about whether you can mix CBD with alcohol or not. In general, it is not recommended since they both have their effects and mixing can amplify them. Alcohol enters the bloodstream, impairs brain coordination and clear thinking, and affects mood and behavior. An increased consumption can affect speech, memory, and body balance. On the other hand, CBD does not have intoxicating properties. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and produces various potential effects such as:
- Reduction in anxiety
- Calmed central nervous system
- Improved sleep quality
- Decrease in chronic pain
CBD is also responsible for some undesirable effects, including drowsiness, fatigue, sedation, nausea, and vomiting.
However, CBD might also reduce some of the harmful effects of alcohol when used in moderation. A study showed that mixing alcohol with CBD impaired motor and psychomotor performance and led to an overestimation of time, but these effects were not observed with CBD alone. This is because CBD helps relax the body, lowering inhibitions and making the body tired and clumsy.
CBD and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
Overconsumption of alcohol causes alcohol use disorder, which results in cell and organ damage. Some studies conducted on mice and rats have shown that CBD can reduce the diseases related to alcohol use disorder. Moreover, researchers have also demonstrated that CBD significantly reduces blood alcohol levels caused by chronic drinking. CBD is actively being researched as a potential treatment for people suffering from AUD. Some evidence from the research suggests that:
- CBD can reduce harm to the brain and liver caused by alcohol as it has anti-inflammation properties
- CBD decreases alcohol cravings
- CBD-related products alleviate alcohol withdrawal symptoms
Can You Take CBD Gummies with Alcohol?
It depends on the individual stamina and dosage. Gummies can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety and stress due to the calming effect of CBD. This mixture can increase drowsiness and impair motor functions along with the positive interaction effect. In general, it is safe to mix CBD and bear but in a moderate amount. Overconsumption of either can cause adverse effects. A few things to keep in mind include:
- Individuals’ tolerance to either substance
- Purpose of use
- Consumption Environment
Possible Side Effects
CBD and alcohol share the same side effects, so mixing them can amplify these effects. Understanding these adverse effects can help you make an informed decision about mixing them. Some of these adverse effects are:
- Drowsiness
- Impaired motor skills
- Increased sedation
- Liver issues
- Diarrhea
- Lowered Inhibitions
- Nausea and Vomiting
Can You Take CBD After Drinking Alcohol?
Remember that CBD consists of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which can be harmful if consumed in a more considerable quantity. Therefore, it is recommended to check for THC present in CBD products before mixing them with alcohol so the final mixture does not cause an interaction of THC with alcohol. The THC amount is limited to 0.3% by weight in CBD products by the Federal Agricultural Improvement Act 2018 to ensure that it is not classified as cannabis.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, overconsumption of anything has adverse effects on health, so if you are planning to make your own CBD and beer shot, then mix both of them in moderate amounts, as high dosage can cause sedation and sleepiness.
