Everything to know about mixing Cannabis and Alcohol

There's nothing better than taking a hit from a joint after a long day, and there's nothing better than having a few beers after a long day—but what happens when you mix weed and alcohol? You might be wondering: "Is it safe for me to use cannabis products and drink on the same night?" That's a good question, and it's likely that you have even more questions about cannabis and alcohol. So, to ensure that you're able to utilize both cannabis products and alcohol safely, we have decided to compile a guide that explains everything you need to know about mixing alcohol and weed. By the end, you'll be ready to enjoy these substances responsibility. Let's get into it!

The Basics of Mixing Weed and Alcohol

If you're familiar with weed and alcohol at all, it's probable that you've heard of the term "crossfading," which simply means you're under the influence of alcohol and weed at the same time. Although it's usually safe to be crossfaded—assuming you don't drive or operate heavy machinery and you're not on any medications that prohibit it—you should know that there might be side effects while you're crossed. These are some things that could possibly happen when you mix alcohol and weed:

You Might Green Out

When you green out, it simply means that you're experiencing a high that's so intense, to the point that you're experiencing severe physical symptoms. These symptoms might include things like sweating, dizziness, vomiting, and feelings of nausea. Green outs are not the most pleasant phenomenon, and you're at a higher risk of experiencing one if you've mixed alcohol and weed.

Your High Will Be More Intense

Even if you don't green out, you will likely experience a high that's more intense that it would be without alcohol, when you drink and smoke concurrently. Alcohol is known to make getting high more intense, so expect this when you drink and smoke at the same time.

Can I Vape or Take Edibles after Drinking?

Just as you can smoke weed and drink, it is safe to take edibles or vape after drinking, too. Cannabis products in whatever form you prefer them in are okay to use after having a few drinks.

Can I Smoke a Joint After Drinking Six Beers?

You certainly can smoke a joint after drinking six beers, but whether or not this is safe for you will depend on your own personal tolerance. If you're someone who drinks and smokes frequently, then you will likely be able to handle doing this. But, if you're someone who only drinks or smokes a little bit, it might be too much for you to handle, because drinking intensifies your high and six beers is a decent amount of alcohol.

Can I Take Edibles After Drinking Three Glasses of Wine?

Again, it is safe to take cannabis-infused edibles after drinking wine, but if you drink three glasses of wine and then take edibles and you've never ingested cannabis products before, it probably isn't a good idea. As with all substance-related matters, be smart and take into consideration your own tolerance. If you're not someone who can handle drinking three glasses of wine without edibles, then you probably shouldn't add the edibles into the equation.

Does It Matter How I Mix My Weed and Alcohol?

There are several ways that you can mix weed and alcohol. You can have weed first and then drink, or you can drink first and then smoke weed. Smoking after drinking makes you experience a more intense high, because alcohol impacts your body in a way that makes it more sensitive to weed. On the other hand, if you smoke weed first and then drink, however, know that there have been less studies on that, so it is harder to tell how you will react to this.

Things to Keep in Mind When Mixing Weed and Alcohol

Now that you're more familiar with what happens when you mix weed and alcohol, it is important to go over some things that you should keep in mind while enjoying both substances. Again, keep in mind your own tolerance, and don't overdo it while using. Next, remember to avoid driving after drinking and smoking. When you adhere to these rules and always keep safety in mind, you'll be much better off while you're drinking and smoking.

What Do I Do If I Have an Adverse Reaction?

In the case that you do have an adverse reaction to mixing alcohol and weed, it is important that you know how to react to the situation. Here are some things that you should do, if you have a reaction while smoking weed and drinking alcohol:

  • Always stay calm: The calmer you are, the better it will be. If you get anxious or have a reaction while smoking and drinking, your panic will only increase if you don't try to calm down.
  • Drink lots of water: Staying hydrated will help with your reaction, especially if you have been drinking a lot of alcohol.
  • Boost your blood sugar: Try to have a quick bite to eat if you feel like you're responding negatively to your weed and alcohol. Eat something filling—this will elevate your blood sugar and get rid of any dizziness you're experiencing.
  • Try a home remedy: There are several different home remedies that are known for helping you when you're reacting to weed or greening out. Squeeze a lemon and put it in water or crush some peppercorns and smell them—these two tricks are known to help you feel better.

Mixing Cannabis and Alcohol: It's Safe If You Take Precautions

Know that it's perfectly safe to enjoy some cannabis and some alcohol at the same time. That said, as with all things, be smart and know your limits. If you practice responsible habits while you're drinking and smoking, you'll stay safe while you use cannabis and alcohol. If you're enjoying these substances with friends, watch out for the wellbeing of those you're smoking and drinking with, as well. For more information about cannabis and alcohol, contact us. Have fun and stay safe!