Within the growing “Cali Sober” movement, many adults are choosing non-alcoholic drinks to take the edge off after a long day. There has been immense growth in this sector, with more and more alternatives popping up every month with differing bases for different effects. From mushrooms to kava to cannabis and everywhere in between, we’re here to talk about what you should expect.
Kava Based Drinks
Kava is a South Pacific shrub identified by its heart-shaped leaves and woody stems that has been used ceremonially to promote relaxation for centuries. It has a mild sedative effect and causes a state of euphoria when consumed. The safest route of consumption is done by only consuming the plant’s root structure, to prevent damage to the liver. Traditionally, the roots are ground down into a paste and mixed with water. The active chemical in kava is known as kavalactones – they have a relationship in the brain with the GABA receptors, which decrease nerve activity. Not much is known about how exactly they affect the brain, but in one study done in 1997, investigators showed a decrease in patients’ perceived anxiety.
One should not consume kava while pregnant or breastfeeding, or in conjunction with alcohol or prescription medication.
Magic Mushroom Based Drinks
Many new cocktails contain micro-doses of magic mushrooms, commonly categorized as one-tenth to one-fifth of a recreational dose. The active ingredient in this version is psilocybin; the hallucinogen is used to promote creativity and, in this sized dose, is a mild euphoria and creativity boost. The science of this practice is still in its infancy, so it’s important to remember that the right size micro for you may be very different for someone else. One should not consume while pregnant or breastfeeding. Some people report stomach troubles, sleep disruption, paranoia or anxiety, and headaches. It is also important to avoid tolerance buildups by taking breaks between micro-dosing sessions. These drinks are not legal in all states, so keep that in mind. To get around these legal loopholes, some companies have been found to use a variety of hallucinogenic mushrooms with a different active ingredient: amanita muscaria. This is a dangerous alternative. Regulation could push for safer consumer products, but we aren’t there yet in Little Rhody.
Super Food Mushroom-Based Drinks
Super-food mushroom-based drinks are all the rage on social media with brands like Everyday Dose and Ryze touting increased productivity, focus, mood, and immune support. The active ingredient is nootropic mushrooms like lion’s mane, king trumpet, Cordyceps, reishi, turkey tail, and more. These products are marketed as health food products and have decent transparency on ingredients. They help to maintain mood, gut health, and increased focus. These are safer alternatives for people on multiple medications, or who worried about interactions.
CBD Based Drinks
CBD is THC’s non-psychoactive sister. CBD is proven to promote sleep, benefit people with anxiety and pain, positively affect brain function with low risk of serious side effects. There are many brands of CBD mocktails available on the market and even at a bar near you. The mild sedative effect is comforting and can reduce anxiety symptoms in some users. Great for drinking without thinking, no need to obsess over dosage. There is mixed research on whether you can or should consume while pregnant or breastfeeding. Tthere are not many interactions with prescriptions, but its always best to ask a doctor before starting.
THC Based Drinks
THC drinks, much like their edible cousins, take an hour or more for effects to be present. Always use caution on dosing so you don’t end up somewhere in outer space. Starting with a 5mg dose is a safe bet for beginners, you can always take more later. Due to its psychoactive nature, some report anxiety, paranoia, and sleeping difficulties. Do not operate heavy machinery while high. Much like CBD, there is conflicting research on consuming while pregnant or breastfeeding.
All in all there are many choices available, and you should only consume something somewhere you feel safe. So get ready to fly high this spring.
