The large majority of us who take CBD do so on a consistent basis in the same quantity and at the same time to maintain a consistent hemp routine. We know that experts suggest that we take CBD daily due to its cumulative effects, and the way in which the endocannabinoid system responds so well to a steady supply of cannabinoids each day.

But does this mean that we can combine any substance with CBD, as for many of us, it’s constantly in our system? Well, we know that when taking CBD with a prescription medication, you need to speak with your doctor. However, what about alcohol, a substance many of us consume so nonchalantly that we don’t even consider the fact that CBD may cause some type of reaction?

There’s No Literature Showing a Dangerous Interaction

First, let’s make one thing clear. As of now, there has not been a single study demonstrating a potential danger in mixing together CBD and alcohol. There have been many clinical studies done on CBD by leading researchers, and there has yet to be an indication that this could be a dangerous mix. So, that’s a good thing. It also implies that this doesn’t seem to be a major public health concern, as studies on this topic would be funded if we were hearing concerning stories about negative effects from mixing alcohol with cannabidiol.

Everyone’s Body is Unique

One thing, however, is that we all process compounds in a unique way, because our bodies are unique. This means that while someone may be able to take shots of vodka all night after consuming multiple CBD gummies and feel great, that doesn’t mean that you’ll have an equally enjoyable experience. So, you need to determine your own limits.

It Depends on How Much of Each You Take

Obviously, a big factor is how much of each product you take. There’s a big difference between taking a dose of a 4,000mg CBD tincture after drinking an entire bottle of wine, compared to taking a standard dose of a 1,000mg CBD tincture after having a single glass of merlot. The higher the dose of each, the more likely it is that you’ll feel some sort of effects caused by an interaction, as is the case with any combination of substances.

It Depends on When You Consumed Each as Well

For instance, chasing a shot of vodka with a CBD energy drink is quite different from taking a capsule in the early morning hours, and having a beer after work. The longer you go between each substance, the less likely you’ll have an interaction, even though the CBD will still be in your body in some amount. Both CBD and alcohol have a clear peak in the system before the effects gradually wear off, and if both peak in the body at the same time, there’s a greater chance of an interaction occurring.

CBD May Help Fight Off Some of Alcohol’s Side Effects

Interestingly, CBD may be a good thing to take before or after drinking, because of how it recalibrates bodily systems via the endocannabinoid system. This system regulates various bodily processes by sending CBD to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, digestive tract, muscles and more. Therefore, some people find that CBD helps them fight nausea if they drink too much, and ward off some of the worst symptoms of a hangover the next morning.

Both May Make You Sleepy in High Doses

Both CBD and alcohol tend to make us feel a bit like dozing off if we have too much of them. Therefore, as you can imagine, combining both in high doses can be a recipe for passing out earlier than you’d like. Be aware of this effect and know that this common side effect can affect us all differently.

CBD is Nontoxic

CBD is nontoxic, and so you don’t have to worry about possible toxicity from taking too much of it. Alcohol is toxic and can kill you if you overdose. But, CBD does not lead to a fatal overdose as the body knows how to store excess levels.

How to Enjoy Both CBD and Alcohol Responsibly

The best way to make both of these substances part of your daily routine is to get your timing right. After all, even if you don’t experience negative side effects, you may want to feel the full effectiveness of each, and the presence of both in the body at peak levels can negate this.

We recommend keeping your CBD routine early in the day, unless you’re taking CBD for sleep, which would mean it’s best to take it right before bed. This way, by the time you would typically be drinking, which is usually in the evening hours, the CBD is no longer at peak levels in the blood.

Also, be mindful of the doses of each. If you’re concerned, start with a low amount of both CBD and alcohol and see how you feel.

Overall, It’s Probably Fine to Have a Drink or Two When You’ve Taken CBD

As of now, we haven’t heard of any concerning anecdotes, nor any studies suggesting otherwise. Just make sure that you monitor how you feel and consume responsible doses of each. If you feel as though you are having a negative reaction, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.