Despite CBD being non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t get you high, we get a lot of questions about how CBD oil affects the human body and whether or not you can continue your daily life while consuming CBD.
One of the more common questions we’ve seen people asking online is, “can I drink alcohol while taking CBD oil?”
The simple answer to this is yes, but there are a few things you might want to consider before mixing CBD with alcohol.
The Effects of CBD and Alcohol on the Body
Before we discuss the potential risks and benefits of mixing CBD and alcohol, it is important to understand how each substance affects the body.
CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various physiological processes such as mood, appetite, and pain.
CBD does not have the psychoactive effects of THC, another compound found in cannabis plants, and does not produce a “high” sensation.
Alcohol, on the other hand, is a depressant that affects the central nervous system. It works by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitter GABA, which produces a calming effect on the body.
Potential Risks of Mixing CBD and Alcohol
While both have their own potential health benefits, mixing the two substances can lead to several potential risks.
One of the main risks of mixing CBD and alcohol is that both substances can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function. Combining the two substances can amplify these effects and make it dangerous to drive or operate heavy machinery.
Another potential risk of mixing CBD and alcohol is that it can increase the levels of THC in the bloodstream.
While CBD does not have psychoactive effects, it can interact with THC to produce a stronger high.
If you consume a CBD product that contains even trace amounts of THC, it can potentially increase the psychoactive effects of alcohol and lead to impaired judgment and coordination.
Lastly, mixing CBD and alcohol can also increase the risk of dehydration. Both can have diuretic effects, meaning they can cause you to urinate more frequently and lose fluids. This can lead to dehydration, which can cause symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and dizziness.
Potential Benefits of Mixing CBD and Alcohol
While there are potential risks associated with mixing Both, there are also potential benefits.
One potential benefit of mixing both is that CBD can potentially reduce some of the negative side effects of alcohol, such as nausea and vomiting.
CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and can potentially reduce inflammation in the stomach, which can reduce the risk of nausea and vomiting.
Another potential benefit of mixing Both is that CBD can potentially reduce the oxidative stress that alcohol can cause on the body.
Alcohol consumption can increase the levels of oxidative stress in the body, which can lead to cell damage and contribute to the development of chronic diseases.
CBD has been shown to have antioxidant properties and can potentially reduce the levels of oxidative stress in the body.
Lastly, mixing can potentially reduce the risk of liver damage that can be caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
Alcohol consumption can cause inflammation and damage to the liver, which can lead to liver disease over time.
CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and can potentially reduce the inflammation in the liver caused by alcohol consumption.
Conclusion to CBD & Alcohol
In conclusion, while there are potential risks associated with mixing Both, there are also potential benefits.
It is important to be mindful of the potential risks, such as impaired cognitive function and increased THC levels, and to consume both substances in moderation.
If you are considering mixing CBD and alcohol, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine if it is safe for you, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
