We’ve all been there—waking up after a night out, regretting that extra drink (or three), and dealing with the dreaded hangover. Headaches, nausea, fatigue, and “hangxiety” (hangover anxiety) can make the morning after unbearable.
While the usual remedies—water, greasy food, and painkillers—may provide some relief, they don’t always do the trick. Enter CBD (cannabidiol), a natural compound derived from the cannabis plant that has been gaining popularity for its wide range of health benefits. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating pain, mood, inflammation, and digestion—all areas affected by alcohol consumption.
So, could CBD be the ultimate hangover cure? Here are ten reasons why CBD is great for hangovers.
1. Reduces Headaches and Migraines
One of the most common hangover symptoms is a pounding headache, often caused by dehydration and inflammation. Research suggests that CBD has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which may help ease headaches and migraines.
Unlike traditional painkillers, CBD doesn’t carry the risk of stomach irritation or dependence, making it a natural alternative for headache relief.
2. Eases Nausea and Vomiting
That queasy feeling after a night of drinking is caused by alcohol irritating the stomach lining and affecting serotonin levels. CBD has been widely recognised for its anti-nausea properties, as it interacts with serotonin receptors to help regulate nausea and vomiting.
CBD is already used to help chemotherapy patients manage nausea, so it could be an effective way to settle your stomach after a big night out.
3. Helps with Anxiety and “Hangxiety”
Alcohol may make you feel confident and carefree while drinking, but the next morning, hangxiety (hangover anxiety) can hit hard. This happens because alcohol disrupts GABA and serotonin levels, neurotransmitters that regulate mood and relaxation.
CBD is known for its calming effects, reducing stress and promoting relaxation by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. If you find yourself overthinking or feeling anxious after drinking, CBD could help take the edge off.
4. Improves Sleep Quality
Alcohol might make you fall asleep faster, but it disrupts REM sleep, leading to poor-quality rest. This is why hangovers often come with exhaustion, grogginess, and brain fog.
CBD is widely used as a natural sleep aid, helping to regulate the sleep cycle and promote deeper, more restorative rest. Taking CBD before bed may help you wake up feeling more refreshed after a night out.
5. Rehydrates and Restores Balance
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production and depletes essential electrolytes. This leads to dehydration, dizziness, and fatigue.
While CBD itself doesn’t hydrate the body, it may support electrolyte balance by interacting with the ECS, which helps regulate hydration and homeostasis. Pairing CBD with plenty of water and electrolytes can help speed up your recovery.
6. Protects the Liver from Alcohol Damage
Excessive alcohol consumption puts a strain on the liver, which is responsible for breaking down toxins. Studies suggest that CBD has liver-protective properties, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver.
While CBD won’t undo the damage of binge drinking, it may support liver function and aid recovery over time.
7. Reduces Inflammation and Body Aches
Feeling sore after drinking? Inflammation and dehydration can cause muscle pain and joint aches the next day.
CBD is well known for its anti-inflammatory effects, making it a great natural alternative to ibuprofen. By interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the body, CBD may help ease general discomfort and muscle soreness after a heavy night.
8. Boosts Mood and Energy Levels
A hangover can leave you feeling mentally and physically drained. CBD interacts with serotonin receptors, which play a key role in mood regulation.
Some people find that CBD helps boost their energy levels and improves focus, making it easier to get through the day. Instead of reaching for caffeine, which can dehydrate you further, CBD could provide a gentle, natural lift without the jitters.
9. Supports Digestive Health
Alcohol irritates the stomach lining, leading to acid reflux, bloating, and digestive discomfort. CBD is thought to have gastroprotective properties, helping to soothe the gut and reduce stomach inflammation.
If you’re struggling with an upset stomach after drinking, CBD may help regulate digestion and promote gut health.
10. No Harsh Side Effects or Addictive Properties
Many hangover remedies, such as painkillers, caffeine, or sugary energy drinks, come with their own downsides—stomach irritation, energy crashes, or dependency.
CBD is non-addictive and generally well-tolerated, making it a safer alternative for managing hangover symptoms. Unlike THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis), CBD won’t get you high, so you can go about your day without impairment.
Conclusion
CBD offers a natural, gentle way to combat hangover symptoms, from headaches and nausea to anxiety and fatigue. While it won’t miraculously cure a hangover, it can help ease discomfort and support your body’s recovery process.
If you’re considering trying CBD for hangovers, you can choose from oils, gummies, capsules, or even CBD-infused drinks. Just remember—always stay hydrated, eat well, and drink responsibly!