While CBD is most commonly used to reduce aches and pains, there’s a growing number of people who are discovering how this anti-inflammatory compound can help with a wide variety of other conditions as well. One of these conditions that more and more people are learning about is alcohol use. Alcohol has been shown to negatively affect the central nervous system and can lead to a variety of different side effects in those who consume it on a regular basis. Because of this, many people believe that taking cbd oil while abstaining from alcohol can help them enjoy all the benefits of drinking wine or beer without any of the negative side effects. But is this really the case? Let’s take a look at whether you should drink alcohol while taking CBD oil.
Can CBD Oil Help With Alcoholism?
There are many benefits that people have reported after taking CBD oil and then not drinking alcohol, including the reduction of cravings and the ability to better control one’s consumption. CBD has the capacity to quiet the nervous system and reduce the desire to drink alcohol. This can be especially useful for those who have difficulty saying “no” when they’ve had too many drinks or are struggling with alcoholism. As a result, a person can avoid the negative consequences often associated with alcohol use, like alcohol-induced blackouts, alcohol-induced liver damage, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. However, these effects are only theorized and are yet to be proven in clinical studies.
Should You Drink Alcohol While Taking CBD Oil?
If you’re looking to drink while taking CBD oil, your best strategy is to do it responsibly. With that being said, there have been numerous studies that suggest that alcohol can be helpful while taking CBD. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, meaning that it slows the activity of the brain and the nerves in the body. While a regular intake of alcohol can’t cure diseases, it can help reduce inflammation in the body and relieve some of the pain associated with conditions like arthritis, migraines, and even some types of headaches. Anecdotally, many people report that alcohol can be a helpful pain reliever for conditions like back pain and arthritis, and one study even found that moderate drinking can be an effective treatment for alcohol use disorders.
Theoretical Benefits of Drinking While Taking CBD Oil
If you’re drinking while taking CBD oil, you might be wondering if there are any benefits other than pain relief. While most of the anecdotal reports that we have pointed toward the positive effects of drinking while taking CBD oil, there are actually some theoretical benefits as well. Alcohol is a diuretic and can help increase the flow of urine by removing excess water from the body. This can help relieve various health conditions that are associated with an overactive bladder, like cystitis and diverticulitis.
Proven Benefits of Drinking While Taking CBD Oil
Theoretical benefits aside, there have also been numerous clinical studies that have proven the benefits of drinking while taking CBD. Many studies have found that taking CBD can actually help people who are addicted to alcohol. While CBD can’t cure alcoholism, it can help with opioid withdrawal symptoms. It can also help with alcohol cravings by reducing the feelings of euphoria that people often get from drinking alcohol.
Side Effects of Drinking While Taking CBD Oil
There are a few side effects that you should keep in mind if you decide to drink while taking CBD oil. At higher doses, alcohol can increase your risk for heart disease and certain forms of cancer. Studies also suggest that alcohol can lead to liver damage in those who are already at high risk for liver disease. As such, you should only drink in moderation if you decide to take CBD while abstaining from alcohol. If you drink responsibly, you shouldn’t have any serious problems. Side effects include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and dry mouth. CBD oil can also interact with prescription medications, so it’s important to inform your doctor if you decide to drink while taking it.
Conclusion
While some people enjoy drinking while taking CBD, others feel that it can negatively affect their health. If you’re interested in enjoying the benefits of CBD while abstaining from alcohol, you’ll want to make sure you follow a few precautions. First, you should only consume low-to-moderate amounts of alcohol while taking CBD. You should also consume CBD one hour before drinking alcohol to prevent any serious side effects. CBD is a potent compound and shouldn’t be taken without a great deal of caution.