Quick takeaways from this article.
- We look at the results of some scientific studies regarding CBD and alcohol.
- We take a closer look at the question of consuming CBD and alcohol together.
- We cover the basics of CBD and alcohol.
- We share practical tips for using CBD responsibly.
What happens when you mix CBD and alcohol? Many people use both, but research on the combination is still limited. Some experts believe the effects may overlap, while others say the evidence is mixed.
In this article, we’ll look at what to know before mixing CBD and alcohol.
CBD and Alcohol: What the Research Says
CBD and alcohol interact in ways researchers are still studying.
Findings from animal studies
Researchers have studied how CBD and alcohol interact in animal experiments, but these early findings do not prove the same results in people. Let’s look at a few examples from the research:
A 2017 animal study looked at how CBD may relate to alcohol-related liver effects. The findings are early, and it is still unclear how they apply to people. Human research is limited.
What Human Studies Suggest
Human research on CBD and alcohol is still limited. A small study looked at the combination, but the sample was too small to draw firm conclusions. Larger studies are needed before any clear takeaway can be made.
|
Study Type |
Key findings |
|
Animal studies |
Early research has explored how CBD may interact with alcohol, but findings are limited. |
|
Human studies |
The study found no major changes in motor or cognitive function. |
CBD buying guide: what to know first
- New to CBD oil? Learn the basics.
- Read more about CBD oil.
- Not sure which CBD oil to choose? Compare options to find the one that best matches what you need.
And if you’re ready to try it, here you’ll find our full CBD oil range, with carefully selected, lab-tested products.
CBD and Alcohol: Essential Information
What Is CBD, and How Does It Work in the Body?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound from hemp. Unlike THC, CBD does not cause a high. It may interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate normal body functions. Research on CBD is still emerging, and possible effects include:
- Supports relaxation
- Sleep quality
- Support for a healthy inflammatory response
- Supports everyday comfort
If you’d like a deeper dive into CBD, read our Effects of CBD Oil article.
Short- and Long-Term Effects of Alcohol
Alcohol consumption has significant effects on the body both in the short and long term:
|
What to expect in the short term |
Health risks of long-term alcohol use |
|
Euphoria |
Possible liver effects |
|
Coordination issues |
Risk of dependence |
|
Speech impairment |
Heart-related concerns |
|
Impaired judgment |
Mental health concerns |
CBD and Alcohol: How They May Interact
CBD and alcohol can interact in different ways, and the effects can vary from person to person. Here are some possible interactions to consider:
- CBD and alcohol may interact in ways researchers are still studying.
- Metabolism changes: CBD might influence the breakdown of alcohol in the body.
These are still theoretical ideas, and more research is needed to understand the interaction more clearly. Next, we’ll look at the possible effects of using CBD and alcohol together.
Explore CBD Oil Products
CBD and Alcohol: What to Know Before Taking Them Together
Higher Risk of Side Effects
Using CBD and alcohol together may increase drowsiness, dizziness, or impaired coordination in some people. Because reactions vary, use caution and avoid driving or other safety-sensitive tasks if you feel affected.
What to Know About CBD Oil, the Liver, and Alcohol
CBD and alcohol are both processed by the liver, so using them together may deserve extra caution—especially if you have liver concerns or take medications. If you’re unsure, ask a healthcare professional.
|
Compound |
Liver effects |
|
Alcohol |
Possible liver-related risks |
|
CBD |
Changes in Enzyme Activity |
|
Together |
May put extra strain on the liver |
General information
CBD and alcohol can affect people in different ways, and combining them may make the experience harder to predict. If you use either product, pay attention to how your body responds and avoid activities that require full alertness if you feel drowsy or impaired.
Ways to Use CBD
Now that we’ve covered the possible effects of combining CBD and alcohol, let’s look at how people use CBD more safely.
Ways to Take CBD
When choosing how to take CBD, consider your preferences and the product format. The table below compares the most common ways people use CBD:
|
How to use |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
|
CBD oil |
Easy to use and simple to measure |
Unflavored versions have a natural hemp taste |
|
CBD cream, CBD balm |
Apply where needed |
It is applied directly to a specific area |
How to Use CBD Oil: Sublingual Use Is Common
Sublingual use means placing drops under the tongue. This method allows CBD to be absorbed through the tissues in the mouth rather than being swallowed right away.
Using CBD Topically
Topical CBD is applied directly to the skin. Balms, creams, and ointments are easy to use for targeted application. Here’s how to apply them:
- Clean the area of skin first.
- Apply a small amount of CBD cream to the area.
- Gently massage it into the skin.
Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil: Important Factors to Consider Before Buying
Quality is key when selecting CBD products, so here are some points to consider:
✔ Made from organic hemp, free of heavy metals and pesticides.
✔ Broad-spectrum CBD with terpenes and phytocannabinoids, and no THC.
✔ Produced from American-grown hemp.
✔ THC-free.
✔ Backed by responsive customer service.
✔ Comes with lab test results and product details so you can review active ingredient information.
✔ Includes customer reviews and experiences.
EU registration details available.
Keeping these points in mind can help you choose a CBD product that fits what you’re looking for.
⇒ Access our high purity, guaranteed active ingredient content, 100% THC-free CBD products here.
What is CBD?
All the important information in one place!
CBD and Alcohol: Possible Interactions
Expert Opinions and Recommendations
Researchers generally advise caution when combining CBD and alcohol. If you use both, pay attention to how you feel and ask a healthcare professional if you have questions. They also note that:
- Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects
- Individual responses may vary
- Use in moderation.
Things to Consider Before Combining CBD and Alcohol
If you use CBD and alcohol together, it’s worth understanding the basics and keeping safety in mind. Let’s look at the key factors to consider.
Considering Individual Sensitivity
Everyone responds differently to CBD and alcohol. Know your own limits:
- Start with the product’s lowest recommended serving and increase only if needed.
- Avoid combining CBD and alcohol until you know how each one affects you on its own.
- If you take medication or have a chronic health condition, check with a healthcare professional first.
Timing and amount matter
Timing and amount can affect how CBD and alcohol interact. Here are a few points to keep in mind:
- If you plan to use both, check with a healthcare professional about timing.
- Always follow the instructions provided with the CBD product.
- If you notice any concerning side effects, stop using it and talk with a healthcare professional.
|
How to Use It |
Recommended timing |
Suggested Maximum Amount |
|
CBD oil |
Take 30 minutes before meals |
25-30 mg daily |
|
Alcohol |
Take during or after meals |
Women: 1 drink; men: 2 drinks |
In our CBD Oil Dosage article, we cover the key information you need about using CBD, so we recommend giving it a read.
CBD and Alcohol: Legal and Practical Considerations
CBD’s legal status varies by country
CBD laws vary by state and country. Check your local rules before buying or using CBD products.
Regulations on alcohol consumption
Alcohol laws vary by country:
|
Regulation |
Details |
|
Age limit |
In the U.S., alcohol purchase and consumption are restricted to adults 21 and over. |
|
Driving |
Never drink and drive. Driving under the influence is illegal and dangerous. |
|
Public spaces |
Local laws may restrict alcohol use in public places. |
Summary
Using CBD and alcohol together can affect people differently, so it’s smart to use caution. Keep alcohol intake moderate, pay attention to how you feel, and ask a healthcare professional if you have questions about using both products.
The studies cited in this article are linked in the Sources section.
References and Scientific Sources- Yuping Wang, Partha Mukhopadhyay, Zongxian Cao, Hua Wang, Dechun Feng, György Haskó, Raphael Mechoulam, Bin Gao, Pal Pacher (2017): Research: Cannabidiol and Alcohol-Related Liver Effects
- Jasmine Turna, Sabrina K Syan, Benicio N Frey, Brian Rush, Mary Jean Costello, Mark Weiss, James MacKillop (2019): Cannabidiol as a Novel Candidate Alcohol Use Disorder Pharmacotherapy: A Systematic Review
- Shenglong Zou and Ujendra Kumar (2018): Cannabinoid Receptors and the Endocannabinoid System: Signaling and Function in the Central Nervous System
- Jacob N. Kisiolek, Victoria A. Flores, Arjun Ramani, Blake Butler, James M. Haughian, Laura K. Stewart (2023): Study on daily cannabidiol supplementation, sleep quality, and immune cell activity
- Kimberly A Babson, James Sottile, Danielle Morabito (2017): Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep: a Review of the Literature
- Kuldeep Singh, Bharat Bhushan, Dilip Kumar Chanchal, Satish Kumar Sharma, Ketki Rani, Manoj Kumar Yadav, Prateek Porwal, Shivendra Kumar, Ashwani Sharma, Tarun Virmani, Girish Kumar, Abdullah Al Noman (2023): Emerging Research on Cannabidiol (CBD) in Neurological Disorders: A Comprehensive Review
- Esther M. Blessing, Maria M. Steenkamp, Jorge Manzanares, and Charles R. Marmar (2015): Cannabidiol and anxiety research
- Vanessa P. Soares and Alline C. Campos (2017): Evidence on Cannabidiol and Panic
- D.C. Hammell, L.P. Zhang, F. Ma, S.M. Abshire, S.L. McIlwrath, A.L. Stinchcomb, K.N. Westlund (2016): Transdermal Cannabidiol in a Rat Model of Arthritis
