Fresh 21-year-olds are drinking less booze than ever, especially in January. Data shows that Gen Z is turning to alcohol less every year. On top of this, many people quit the stuff in the first month of the year for an annual trend called Dry January.
RELATED: Product offers a truly new cannabis experience
This abstinence-driven New Year’s resolution has picked up steam. Meanwhile, so have weed drinks. The infused libations are sold legally in places like Texas, where weed is still illegal. These refreshments are sold in traditional grocery stores and online.
As this move away from alcohol gains steam alongside cannabis access, some may choose to temper off of the drink forever in favor of the kind herb. But the way alcohol works and feels differs from cannabis–even if you’re drinking a pot beverage. If someone is interested in switching booze for weed, there are a few products that could ease the process.
Drinks
Switching from an alcoholic seltzer to a weed one is an obvious choice for those cutting back on beers, seltzers, and cocktails— and not solely because of the similarity. Many drinks have a fast-acting onset more similar to alcohol than infused baked goods. While a viable choice, there are things to know before selecting a cannabis beverage.
Flavor and formulation are key to picking a drink. Some drinks taste like popular cocktails, and others taste more like sweet soda. Before buying, read up on the flavor components and sugar content to get a good idea of the flavor within.
Formulations refer to the cannabinoids inside a can. Anytime drinks have 15 milligrams of CBD and five mg of THC for a more mellow vibe. Señorita cannabis margaritas come in 10 mg THC doses with no CBD. Those who have tincture or THC powder around can mix their own drinks, crafting cannabis cocktails at home and enjoying them with friends.
Finding the correct cannabinoid ratio makes for a personalized experience. Pay attention to the flavors and cannabinoids when choosing drinks, and they could be a good help when passing on booze.
RELATED: Irritating cannabis problem is common but avoidable
Sleep products
People who enjoy alcohol nightly may notice it’s harder to fall asleep in the first week or so after putting down the bottle. Cannabis sleep products might be helpful in this situation. Some hemp THC options are available in unexpected states like Texas and Indiana. Meanwhile, dispensaries in medical and adult-use states should offer others.
CBN is a cannabinoid anecdotally connected to sleep. Though there is little evidence to prove it has these properties, most sleep products contain CBN. Others may also contain L-theanine and melatonin for additional help.
Salves, balms, and bombs
Alcohol temporarily reduces pain, which is a draw for some people who do physical labor or have pain despite the negative side effects. Cannabis salves, balms, and bath bombs might be helpful when trying to cut back or quit these beverages. These topicals may reduce headaches and body pain when applied directly to where it hurts. Yes, rub it right into the scalp when a migraine is in the works.
Bath bombs are a viable all-over method to absorb cannabinoids, while salves and bombs can get more localized and assist with targeted massage. Not everyone will have increased pain awareness when they say goodbye to booze, but some could. And those who do might benefit from topical cannabis applications.
Vape pens
Anyone looking for immediate relief is going to appreciate inhalation methods like vape pens, joints, and bongs. Edibles can take 15 minutes to an hour and a half to kick in–not ideal when someone wants to “feel it” quickly.
RELATED: All-time best uses for THC powder
Vape pens are virtually smell-proof. They don’t linger in the air as much as joints or combusted smoke, especially when paired with a personal smoke filter. Vapes also won’t leave a scent on their fingers and breath like smoking can. These nifty pieces of tech might be a valuable addition to the booze-free periods of life.
Switching booze for weed? Try this
More people are saying goodbye to alcohol, while cannabis is only gaining popularity. Those hoping to jump from one to the other might consider having this arsenal of products at the ready.
