Alcohol can be seen as an easy and quick fix when looking to relax, unwind, and forget about your troubles. But it is not without its consequences. Studies show that alcohol increases anxiety and depression, disrupts sleep, and can cause impaired behavior when consumed in excess – all things we should be looking to avoid during times of uncertainty.

So, let’s find a way to unwind, relax and forget about our troubles without the negative impact alcohol carries in tow.

Enter hemp-infused spirits.

Derived from the hemp plant, these new-to-the-market spirits provide relaxing benefits without the negative effects of alcohol or the mind-altering effects of tetrahydrocannabinol. This has many people asking why they should put the bottle back on the shelf and perhaps try something new.

Here are three reasons you should reach for the hemp and ditch the liquor.

1. Provides stress and anxiety relief

Research suggests that hemp-infused spirits can reduce stress and anxiety when consumed in moderation. The active chemical found in hemp has the same effect on the brain as anti-anxiety pharmaceuticals currently found on the market (Blessing, 2015). Alcohol can disrupt serotonin and other “feel good” chemicals in your brain, causing feelings of distress and anxiety often lasting days after consumption. The “Sunday scaries” are often a result of one too many cocktails over the weekend!

2. Aids in falling and staying asleep

Hemp-infused cocktails provide a sense of relaxation without the toxins associated with alcohol. When choosing a hemp-infused spirit made with natural ingredients your body won’t have to work to clear the toxic load as it does when you consume alcohol. This can result in better, and deeper, sleep without disrupting the body’s natural circadian rhythms. You may think you are sleeping better after consuming a few alcoholic beverages but passing out does not constitute a good night’s sleep. Your body has to process and clear alcohol, thus resulting in your body working overtime while you sleep. Alcohol increases your heart rate and decreases the hours of REM and deep sleep achieved during your sleep cycles.

3. Provides relaxation without the hangover

Hemp-infused spirits provide the relaxation often sought after when reaching for alcohol without the negative side-effects. A general sense of wellbeing and calm are often reported without the regrettable hangover. Overconsumption of alcohol often results in a sluggish morning – headache, fatigue and brain fog can all be attributed to alcohol robbing your body of essential vitamins and minerals. Add in any cocktail mixes laden with sugar and you are sure to experience a bit of pain the next morning. Choosing a hemp-infused cocktail alternative made with natural ingredients will have you ready to take on the morning.

Next time you want to relax and unwind at the end of a long day, reach for a spirit that calms and uplifts without the negative effects attributed to alcohol.