Have you thought of getting feminized marijuana seeds for sale to cultivate your stash? Are you hoping to enjoy a joint while drinking a beer? Some smokers consume THC and alcohol together to intensify the effects, but it’s potentially dangerous.
The two substances affect individuals differently, depending on their sensitivity and tolerance levels, but there are risks associated with mixing them. We share everything you need to know about what happens when you consume cannabis and alcohol simultaneously.
Effects of Cannabis and Alcohol
Alcohol and marijuana are substances that may cause depressant effects, meaning they suppress, diminish, and hinder the brain’s ability to function optimally. Their active ingredient—ethanol and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), respectively—affects parts of the brain that influence:
- Self-control
- Judgment
- Decision-making
- Movement and reflexes
- Time perception
- Senses
- Emotions
- Inhibitions
- Sexual desire and function
Mixing THC and alcohol on the odd occasion may not lead to severe health issues, but it depends on the individual. What’s safe for one user might cause adverse reactions in another, especially with excessive use.
Studies show that frequent and heavy consumption of these substances may damage brain function, especially in teenagers. The mental health effects might be irreversible even after ceasing the use of either or both drugs. It’s vital to identify the short-term signs before they become severe.
Short-term Effects of Mixing Alcohol and Cannabis
Many of the effects of consuming marijuana and alcohol together can pose a danger to people unaware of them. Individuals who use uplifting strains to relieve anxiety and depression may not realize that mixing sativa and alcohol can cause adverse reactions.
Knowing the signs is vital. Cannabis smokers who also drink don’t always attribute the substances as the root of their health issues.
Physically, you may experience slowed or irregular breathing, increased heart rate, and impaired reflexes and coordination. Other possible effects include:
- Distorted time perception
- Diminished cognitive ability
- Poor judgment and inability to make critical decisions
- Reduced inhibitions
- Distorted vision
These reactions pose a higher risk of accidents and physical injury. You may also experience short-term memory loss while under the influence. Excessive use can cause hallucinations, paranoia, heightened anxiety, and depression.
Long-term Dangers of Mixing Alcohol and Marijuana
Prolonged and frequent practice of mixing alcohol and marijuana can have severe repercussions. Tolerance levels for both substances may increase, causing users to raise their intake to experience the same sensations.
Dependence on the drugs might result in withdrawal issues if individuals don’t get enough of them to meet their needs. Users would need to undergo therapy to get off the fixation.
Some common symptoms of substance addiction include:
- Intense craving for the drug
- Feeling edgy without the substance
- Behaving recklessly while driving or working
- Having difficulty managing responsibilities due to excessive consumption
- Strained relationships with friends and family
- Experiencing intense withdrawal symptoms when ceasing substance use
Excessive consumption of the mix can also cause damage to the brain, liver, and lungs. There’s also an increased risk of developing cancers linked to alcohol and the possibility of mental health issues, like long-term memory loss.
Individuals react differently to mixing cannabis and alcohol depending on genetics, environmental, social, and biological factors. People with a history of psychological problems and those with addiction in the family are more susceptible to the risks when combining the drugs.
Does the order in which you use the substance make a difference? Research is currently limited, and most findings focus on drinking alcohol before smoking cannabis.
What Happens If You Drink Alcohol Before Smoking Marijuana?
Alcohol boosts THC absorption, so drinking before smoking cannabis may intensify the herb’s effects. While the stronger psychoactive sensation may not affect seasoned users, newbies might experience adverse reactions.
Some symptoms that inexperienced smokers could feel when mixing include dizziness, sweating, nausea, and vomiting.
Using weed after consuming alcohol might also make you feel less intoxicated. This condition may cause you to drink more than you planned.
What You Should Do If You Suffer From the Effects of Mixing Alcohol and Marijuana
It’s best to avoid mixing marijuana and alcohol if you recognize the warning signs. Most mental health problems improve when users stop using the substances, although some may experience the issues longer.
Waiting an hour or more after drinking alcohol before using cannabis is one way to reduce the effects. Your body takes about 60 minutes to metabolize a standard drink—12 ounces of beer or four ounces of wine.
Consuming marijuana on its own offers many potential benefits without the risks associated with drinking alcohol at the same time. Growing your stash at home with quality seeds from reputable vendors ensures you know exactly what you’re smoking.
Individuals worried about substance abuse should seek therapy or counseling. With professional treatment, they can overcome the problem and minimize the risk of returning to the habit.
About the Author: Jennifer Gallagher
Jennifer Gallagher, an experienced cannabis grower at SeedSupreme Seedbank. During a 7-year career in the marijuana growing business, Jennifer has gained a high competence in this field. As far as weed is concerned, she knows it all inside out. Jennifer is an expert in pot-growing, as well as cannabis types and their effects. She’s also familiar with all legislation nuances.