The use of CBD has gained popularity in recent years, while alcohol consumption remains a common practice in social and recreational contexts. However, the combination of both substances raises important questions about their interaction and potential effects. Below, we explore how they interact, the potential risks and benefits, and the precautions to consider. We must remind you in this section that in our country CBD products are for topical use. Alcohol consumption is not allowed for minors under 18 years of age.
Alcohol and its impact on the body
Effects of alcohol consumption on the central nervous system
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that affects essential functions such as motor coordination, judgment, and mood. Excessive consumption can lead to memory loss, altered reflexes, and long-term damage to organs such as the liver.
Factors Affecting Response to Alcohol
Body weight, metabolism, age, and other individual factors influence how each person processes alcohol. These same factors can play an important role in how the body reacts when combining alcohol with other components.
Interactions of alcohol and the endocannabinoid system
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulates essential functions such as mood, appetite, and sleep. Studies suggest that alcohol can disrupt this system, affecting the production of natural endocannabinoids. This could amplify the negative effects of alcohol or modify its long-term consequences.
Interaction between CBD and alcohol
Do CBD and alcohol interact with each other?
Although CBD and alcohol have distinct properties, they can interact with each other. Both could have relaxing and potentially sedative effects, which could amplify sensations such as drowsiness or over-relaxation. However, conclusive research on the magnitude of this interaction is still lacking.
What does science say? Relevant studies
Some preliminary studies suggest that CBD might moderate certain effects of alcohol, such as oxidative damage and inflammation. However, this research is in the early stages and is not enough to recommend the combination of both substances as safe or beneficial. You can find more information in the bibliography of this blog.
Important Dosage Considerations
The effect of CBD and alcohol together can vary depending on doses. While small amounts of both substances may not have serious consequences, higher doses may lead to adverse effects such as extreme dizziness or impaired motor functions.
Addictions, the Endocannabinoid System, and CBD
The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in Alcohol Consumption
The endocannabinoid system can influence alcohol consumption patterns by regulating the reward and pleasure associated with consumption. For this reason, some research is exploring its role in reducing alcohol dependence.
Can CBD influence alcohol consumption patterns?
CBD has been studied for its potential to moderate compulsive and anxious behaviors, including those related to alcohol consumption. However, it should not be considered as treatment for addiction without the supervision of a health care professional.
Potential Benefits and Risks
How Does CBD Affect Hangovers?
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to hangovers due to dehydration, inflammation, and oxidative stress. While some users report that CBD can relieve discomfort such as headaches or nausea, there is no solid scientific evidence to support these claims.
Can CBD counteract some effects of alcohol?
Preliminary studies suggest that CBD may have antioxidant and neuroprotective properties, which may be useful in situations of cellular stress caused by alcohol. However, this does not mean that CBD eliminates the negative effects of excessive consumption.
Risks associated with mixing CBD and alcohol
The combination of these substances may increase the risk of drowsiness, motor disturbances, and other side effects. In addition, their use together could amplify depressant effects on the central nervous system.
Final Precautions and Recommendations
Is it safe to combine CBD and alcohol?
The safety of mixing CBD and alcohol depends on factors such as dosage, frequency of use, and the individual characteristics of each person. Although some studies suggest possible benefits, research is still insufficient to ensure its safety.
Tips for responsible consumption
- Always consult with a healthcare professional before combining substances.
- Start with low amounts of both to see how your body reacts.
- Avoid the combination if you plan to do activities that require concentration or coordination, such as driving.
Bibliography and digital sources
- ScienceDirect. Transdermal delivery of cannabidiol attenuates binge alcohol-induced neurodegeneration in a rodent model of an alcohol use disorder – https://www.sciencedirect.com
- -VICE. This Is What Happens When You Mix Alcohol and CBD. https://tonic.vice.com
- PubMed NCBI. Interaction of cannabidiol and alcohol in humans. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Basavarajappa, B. S., & Hungund, B. L. (1999). Chronic ethanol increases the cannabinoid receptor agonist anandamide and its precursor N-arachidonoylphosphatidylethanolamine in SK-N-SH cells. Journal of neurochemistry, 72(2), 522–528. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1471-4159.1999.0720522.x
- De Ternay, J., Naassila, M., Nourredine, M., Louvet, A., Bailly, F., Sescousse, G., Maurage, P., Cottencin, O., Carrieri, P. M., & Rolland, B. (2019). Therapeutic Prospects of Cannabidiol for Alcohol Use Disorder and Alcohol-Related Damages on the Liver and the Brain. Frontiers in pharmacology, 10, 627. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2019.00627
