September 4, 2025

Can You Mix CBD And Alcohol?

CBD drinks are on the rise. You can spot them in bars, wellness cafés, even gym vending machines. At the same time, many of us still enjoy a pint or two come Friday. But what happens when you mix the two? Can you really sip a CBD soda and a G&T in the same sitting?

Yes, but it depends.

We will walk you through what actually happens when CBD and alcohol mix. What feels good, what might not, and when a Little Rick might just be the better shout than that second pint.

Quick Answer – Can You Mix CBD and Alcohol?

Yes, you can mix CBD and alcohol, but you should do so mindfully. Here is what matters:

Both CBD and alcohol promote relaxation and sedation
Mixing can amplify these effects → drowsiness, slower reaction times
Safety depends on dosage, tolerance, and body chemistry
High doses or long-term mixing could pose liver risks

One 2019 clinical trial found that mixing CBD and alcohol intake led to stronger sedation and slower coordination, especially when the alcohol dose was high. So yes, you can combine them, but do not expect to feel normal after two glasses of wine and a CBD drink.

Can you mix cbd and alcohol Little Rick infographic

What Is CBD and Why Do People Mix It with Alcohol?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. It does not get you high, that job belongs to THC. Instead, CBD helps people feel calmer, less anxious, and more balanced.

In the UK, CBD is legal as long as it contains less than 0.2% THC. Our CBD drinks at Little Rick, for example, use 32mg of full-spectrum CBD with legal trace amounts of minor cannabinoids and terpenes, no buzz, just bliss.

So why mix CBD with alcohol?

Some find it smooths out the effects of drinking
Others use it as a hangover-prevention hack (spoiler: jury’s still out)
And a few just enjoy the flavour combo, mint & lime CBD meets gin? We see you.

How CBD and Alcohol Affect the Body

Both CBD and alcohol interact with the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood, pain, and sleep. But they work in different ways.

Alcohol

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. It slows brain activity, impairs judgment, and lowers inhibitions. It also affects blood alcohol concentration (BAC), a key marker used in drink-driving laws.

CBD

CBD works by modulating receptors like CB1 and CB2, but unlike alcohol or THC, it does not intoxicate. It has anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory properties, so it helps you unwind without dulling your senses.

When Mixed

Combining CBD and alcohol could lead to:

Increased sedation and fatigue
Slower reflexes
More pronounced relaxation (aka couch-lock mode)

But according to a 2019 clinical trial in the Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research, CBD did not significantly alter BAC when taken with alcohol. Still, the authors noted that sedation increased in the combo group. Meaning CBD won’t make you drunker, but it might make you feel sleepier when you drink.

How Long After Taking CBD Oil Can I Drink Alcohol?

If you are using CBD oil (not drinks), wait at least 1-2 hours before consuming alcohol. Why?

CBD oil is absorbed sublingually (under the tongue) and reaches the bloodstream quickly. The effects can peak within 60 minutes and linger for a few hours. Drinking too soon could amplify drowsiness or lead to unpredictable interactions, especially with high-strength alcohol.

If you’re unsure, space them out. Or better yet, try a CBD drink instead of alcohol for a change. Wondering how many Little Rick cans are too many?

CBD and Alcohol – Possible Benefits Reported in Research

The science is still young. But some early research shows promising potential when it comes to CBD and alcohol.

1. May Reduce Alcohol Damage

A 2013 study in Free Radical Biology and Medicine found that CBD protected the liver and brain from alcohol-induced damage in rats. Another 2014 study showed neuroprotective effects of CBD in alcohol-consuming mice.

2. May Help With Cravings

A 2019 study published in Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology showed CBD could reduce alcohol consumption and prevent relapse in animals with alcohol dependency. Researchers observed fewer “drug cues” triggering cravings.

Human trials are limited, but this could be promising for those with alcohol use disorder seeking new support tools.

3. May Lower Alcohol-Induced Inflammation

Another study we found, published in Frontiers in Technology, suggests that CBD’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may reduce damage to organs during episodes of heavy drinking. That said, this should not be used as a pass to binge.

Risks of Mixing CBD and Alcohol

While some research highlights potential benefits, there are also real risks, especially when doses climb.

Drowsiness

You might feel too relaxed, leading to poor coordination and reduced alertness. Not ideal before driving, dancing, or delivering a best man speech.

Impaired Judgment

The combo could impair decision-making faster than alcohol alone.

Liver Strain

Both CBD and alcohol are metabolised in the liver. Even though the study above suggests that CBD may reduce liver damage, high doses of CBD could stress the liver, especially in combination with alcohol. This is more relevant for people with liver disease or an alcohol treatment history.

Unknown Drug Interactions

If you are on medication, combining alcohol and CBD could disrupt how your body processes those drugs. Always speak to a doctor if you are unsure.

Is Mixing CBD and Alcohol Safe?

Young friends sitting cafe while drinking alcohol

The short answer is: usually yes, in low doses, but with caution.

Here is what experts say:

The FDA and UK FSA recommend further research
Most clinical trials use high doses of CBD, not typical beverage amounts
The effects vary depending on your individual metabolism, alcohol tolerance, and any underlying conditions

Mixing CBD and alcohol may not be wise if:

You have a history of alcohol withdrawal or substance use
You are sensitive to sedatives or already on prescription medication
You are not sure how either substance affects you

When in doubt? Stick to one chill drink at a time.

Conclusion: Little Rick’s CBD Drinks are a Mindful Alternative to Alcohol

Look, we are not here to shame your next pint. But if you are trying to cut back, feel better, or keep your Sundays scaries in check, CBD drinks are worth a shot.

Little Rick is proud to be part of the UK’s growing low-and-no alcohol scene. Our drinks deliver calm, clarity, and serious flavour, without the fuzzy head the next morning. We use lab-tested full-spectrum CBD with natural flavours and sweeteners, and grown-up flavours like Mint & Lime or Raspberry Coconut.

That is why more UK pubs, bars, and events are adding CBD sodas to the drinks list. You can sip us solo, or as a wind-down option in between alcoholic rounds.

So the next time you feel like mixing it up? Swap your second pint for a CBD drink and thank us later.

FAQs

Can you drink alcohol with CBD gummies?

Yes, but go easy. Mixing can increase drowsiness and slow your reaction time.

Does CBD protect the liver from alcohol?

Some early studies suggest CBD may reduce liver inflammation, but it is not a free pass for heavy drinking.

Is CBD good after drinking?

Many use it to relax or sleep after drinking, but it does not cancel out alcohol’s effects.

Can CBD stop me from getting drunk?

Nope. CBD does not block alcohol. It might slightly alter how you feel, but not your blood alcohol level.

Does CBD help with hangovers?

Some people say it eases anxiety or nausea, but evidence is limited and not guaranteed for everyone.

Will mixing CBD and alcohol show up on a drug test?

CBD usually will not show up, but make sure your product is THC-free if you are being tested.

Are CBD cocktails legal in the UK?

Yes, as long as the CBD meets UK Novel Food regulations and contains less than 0.2% THC.

Does CBD reduce alcohol consumption?

Some small studies suggest it may help reduce alcohol cravings, but more human research is needed.

References

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