Cannabis and Dry January? (plus 24 CBD-ready mocktails for any occasion)
Love it or hate it, Dry January has become a phenomenon with some serious staying power. And if you’re participating, it can seem especially so—dragging on with no end in sight. The good news is, there are more options than ever to take the edge off a month (or longer) of sobriety—without the hangover or health concerns. Cannabis, and CBD in particular, has become a popular way to make Dry January more bearable, while still enjoying the health- and mental-clarity-related benefits. Read on, or scroll to the end for our epic collection of Dry January Mocktails.
What is Dry January?
Dry January is the practice of giving up alcohol during the month of January. While practiced in countries across the world, it has largely taken hold in the U.S. and Europe. In fact, a recent survey revealed that a whopping 19% (1 in 5) U.S. adults were taking part in Dry January in 2022—up from 13% in 2021.
What is the history of Dry January?
The origins of Dry January are debated. Writer John Ore coined the term “Dryanuary” in 2006; meanwhile, the concept took hold in the UK after a 2012 campaign from Alcohol Change UK that encouraged citizens to “ditch the hangover, reduce the waistline and save some serious money by giving up alcohol for 31 days.” These days, the backlash almost matches the fervor—with critics even going so far as to say the movement is “evil.” Most of the criticism stems from what some feel is overexposure—with seemingly everyone you know claiming “new year, new me #DryJanuary” in their social feeds.
Can you use weed during Dry January?
That depends on who you ask. There is no strong consensus—and it seems to be more of a personal choice than a hard and fast rule. More than likely, the reasons a person participates in Dry January will sway their stance on marijuana or cannabis use during that time. For example, those who participate as a way to clear their minds and get focused in the new year may choose to avoid all substances that have mind-altering or psychoactive effects (THC and other psychoactive cannabinoids included). Those who participate as a way to lose weight or detox their liver, on the other hand, might be more likely to allow themselves the occasional edible or joint as an alternative way to wind down.
Why cannabis is good for dry January
Many cannabis advocates tout the plant as the perfect way to make it through Dry January—a win-win for those who want to improve their mental and physical health while still having ways to relax and take the edge off. And with more and more evidence mounting on the health benefits of cannabis, most users can still feel good about indulging a bit.
CBD and Dry January
For those who want to avoid all psychoactive substances during the month of January, CBD is a perfect option. CBD (cannabidiol) is a cannabinoid that is naturally occurring in cannabis/hemp plants—one that shows promise in several research studies as a way to help manage pain, stress, anxiety and more. Here’s how it works: The human body has a network of neuron receptors called the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate many physical processes. CBD and cannabinoids fit into these receptors and take action in the nervous system to provide relief and calm. (More CBD FAQs here). For those holding themselves to a high (no pun intended) standard during Dry January, CBD is a perfect alternative, since, by itself, it has no psychoactive effects.
CBD mocktails for Dry January
CBD goes great with any of the mocktails on our list. We suggest adding one dose (usually a full dropper), or between 10-30mg of CBD tincture per mocktail to reap the benefits. CBD isolate tinctures are typically tasteless, while full-spectrum tinctures often have an herbal taste that pairs well with spicy, botanical or floral flavor profiles.
Classic mocktails
Mixologist-approved mocktails
Functional mocktails
Grapefruit Kombucha Agua Fresca
Glowing Green Margarita Mocktail
Botanical mocktails
Ginger Basil Grapefruit Spritzer
Keep a bottle of CBD in your bar cart—for cocktails or mocktails. Cheers!
