Cannabis Science

Can CBD Cure a Hangover?

#### The Reality of CBD and Alcohol

Across the globe, various cultures have developed unique remedies for hangovers. From Colombia's egg dish, changua, to eastern Europe’s pickled sausages, the approaches vary widely. In Ireland, a hearty breakfast is the go-to cure, while in Russia, kvas, a drink made from fermented rye bread, is favored. The Japanese often rely on umeboshi, salted pickled plums steeped in green tea.

In the U.S., I’ve encountered the “hair of the dog” method, which involves a vodka Bloody Mary packed with hot sauce and any pickled vegetables on hand. Here in Mexico, we often opt for Vuelve a la Vida, a seafood dish, or a quick Michelada.

If you’ve ever overindulged, you might have tried some of these remedies yourself. I admit to experimenting with a variety of strange mixtures to relieve my hangover symptoms more than once.

With the rising popularity of CBD and its wide array of therapeutic effects, many wonder if it might also help alleviate the infamous "day after."

Let’s delve into the details.

What Triggers Hangovers?

Despite the glamorous advertising, alcohol remains a toxic substance. Ethanol, its primary component, is a potent chemical solvent known for its disinfectant properties. Our bodies can metabolize this toxin at a rate of roughly one drink per hour, but binge drinking or chronic heavy consumption can lead to severe health issues.

When we consume ethanol, it converts into a harmful substance called acetaldehyde, which accumulates in the body with rapid drinking. This chemical is primarily responsible for the damaging effects of binge drinking, which can even be lethal.

The liver processes acetaldehyde into an acid that harms cell membranes, causing scarring and impairing cognitive functions like memory. Acetaldehyde and its acid derivatives also contribute to hangover symptoms, including headaches, digestive distress, accelerated heartbeat, and anxiety.

Moreover, alcohol consumption leads to significant dehydration by suppressing vasopressin, a hormone that instructs the body to retain fluids. This suppression is the main reason for frequent bathroom trips after drinking. Excessive urination results in dehydration, causing fatigue, brain fog, dry mouth, body aches, dizziness, and irritability. Not exactly enjoyable, right?

Long-term suppression of vasopressin can also lead to kidney issues, fluctuations in blood pressure, and imbalances in cellular salt levels.

Despite knowing the harm alcohol inflicts on our bodies, many of us still indulge and face the consequences (again). So, how can CBD assist in this scenario?

Can CBD Aid in Combating Hangovers?

Before exploring CBD’s potential benefits for hangovers, it’s crucial to understand how this compound operates. CBD and other cannabinoids interact with receptors in our endocannabinoid system (ECS).

The ECS has been around for over 600 million years, helping organisms maintain internal stability despite external changes. It regulates numerous essential bodily functions, including:

• Emotional balance
• Sleep regulation
• Hormone control
• Body temperature maintenance
• Inflammation and immune response regulation

Now that we grasp the basics of how CBD functions, let’s examine how it may help mitigate the aftereffects of alcohol.

#### Enhancing Endocannabinoid Levels

Research indicates that regular alcohol consumption can deplete levels of internal endocannabinoids, such as anandamide and 2-AG. Insufficient endocannabinoid levels can result in various symptoms, including Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CECD), which is linked to difficult-to-treat conditions like migraines, fibromyalgia, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

CBD can enhance natural endocannabinoid levels by inhibiting the enzymes that degrade anandamide and 2-AG.

#### Alleviating Nausea and Vomiting

Alcohol disrupts the digestive system in two primary ways. It activates the brain’s “vomiting center,” located in the medulla oblongata, which helps eliminate toxins. Additionally, alcohol stimulates stomach acid production, leading to discomfort like heartburn.

CBD can help mitigate nausea and vomiting by indirectly activating 5-HT1a autoreceptors, which become less responsive after excessive drinking.

#### Relieving Pain

Hangovers often come with headaches and body aches, and conventional pain relievers can further irritate the stomach and liver.

CBD and other cannabis compounds are known for their pain-relieving properties and are generally well-tolerated by the digestive system. A 2018 peer-reviewed study concluded that CBD reduces pain via multiple physiological mechanisms, including interactions with ECS receptors and neurotransmitter release. Another clinical study in the Journal of Pain in 2020 found that cannabinoids like CBD reduced headache pain by 50% in participants.

#### Addressing Hangxiety

While a few drinks might temporarily boost mood due to dopamine release, the subsequent drop can lead to anxiety and depression, commonly referred to as “hangxiety” or the “hangover of the soul.”

This phenomenon involves two main processes: overworked dopamine receptors become less responsive after drinking, and alcohol elevates cortisol levels, a hormone linked to our stress response. Elevated cortisol can trigger anxiety and panic in the short term and, if persistent, lead to weight gain or high blood pressure.

CBD can assist in alleviating both anxiety and depression caused by alcohol. Its ability to stimulate serotonin receptors promotes a positive mood, while also calming the amygdala, the brain's signal for cortisol release.

#### Promoting Restful Sleep

If you have the luxury of sleeping off your hangover, CBD can aid in achieving restful sleep. Numerous studies and anecdotal evidence support CBD's efficacy in treating anxiety-related sleep disturbances. A large case study conducted by Kaiser Permanente found that 67% of patients with insomnia experienced improved sleep patterns after a 90-day CBD regimen.

CBD May Alleviate Some Alcohol-Related Damage

Though CBD shouldn’t be an excuse for excessive drinking, it may help mitigate some harmful effects.

#### CBD as a Powerful Antioxidant with Neuroprotective Qualities

Alcohol is particularly damaging to the brain and nervous system, and chronic consumption can lead to nerve damage and neuroreceptor dysfunction, resulting in conditions like peripheral neuropathy.

Research suggests that CBD could be up to 50% more effective than vitamin C in combating free radicals associated with neurodegeneration. An initial animal study from 2014 indicated that rats treated with CBD prior to alcohol exposure showed significantly reduced liver cell oxidation. Another study suggested that CBD may help prevent neurodegeneration linked to binge drinking.

#### CBD's Role in Reducing Inflammation

One well-known characteristic of CBD is its ability to combat inflammation. Alcohol contributes significantly to inflammation, and overconsumption can lead to chronic inflammatory issues, resulting in serious health complications.

#### CBD and Blood Sugar Stabilization

Excessive alcohol consumption can cause blood sugar levels to drop by disrupting insulin activity. Low blood sugar can result in shakiness, irritability, and dizziness associated with hangovers. While further research is necessary, studies on type two diabetes indicate that CBD may help normalize blood glucose levels.

#### CBD's Potential in Reducing Alcohol Cravings

Emerging research suggests that CBD may help curb alcohol cravings and decrease relapse rates during recovery. A 2021 lab study found that cocaine-addicted rats exhibited reduced drug-seeking behavior after receiving CBD treatment.

How to Utilize CBD for Hangovers

Inhalation provides the fastest method for alleviating hangover symptoms with CBD. Personally, I prefer high-CBD hemp flower or smoking a pre-rolled joint for those occasional overindulgences.

However, many opt for the convenience of prefilled vape pens. It’s essential to choose quality CBD products, as the long-term effects of various vape oil additives are still unknown.

Sublingual CBD oils or edibles are also effective, though they take up to 90 minutes to take effect and can last for hours. Begin with a small dose, as excessive consumption can lead to next-day grogginess.

Most sources suggest that moderate alcohol and CBD consumption is safe. In fact, CBD might help lower blood alcohol levels. However, combining CBD with alcohol can temporarily decrease blood pressure and increase drowsiness, raising the risk of alcohol-related injuries. It may be wise to wait until you're home to take your CBD dose after drinking.

Additionally, you can adopt practices to minimize hangover discomfort, such as drinking after eating, rehydrating with electrolytes, or taking magnesium and vitamin B. Perhaps whip up a steaming pot of Korean haejangguk or a zesty New Orleans-style yaka mein.

But if all else fails, consider skipping the alcohol altogether and embracing a sober lifestyle!

This article is for informational purposes only. If you're struggling with alcohol use or facing serious health issues, consult a doctor. A qualified physician can help you develop an appropriate treatment plan for alcohol addiction and determine if CBD is suitable for you.

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