🔗 Share this article Going California Sober: Research Indicates Cannabis Could Assist in Reducing Drinking Consumption New scientific investigation published in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that adopting a “California sober” approach might significantly assist people lower their alcohol use. The Study and Bar Lab Scenario A team of Brown University carried out a unique experiment where participants received marijuana joints to smoke before visiting a specially designed simulated bar environment. Subjects had the option to drink up to eight mini alcoholic beverages. The trial was conducted three separate times with varying tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a placebo cannabis. Significant effort was taken to mimic a authentic bar atmosphere, complete with low light and beer taps to ensure participant realism. “Our goal was to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to drink,” explained the lead researcher. Significant Results and Impact on Alcohol Use Outcomes showed a marked decrease in alcohol consumption after subjects smoked cannabis: Alcohol intake fell by nineteen percent after using 3.1% THC marijuana. The drop was more significant with 7.2% THC cannabis, leading to a twenty-seven percent reduction compared to the control. Wider Trends and Future Research Increased legalization has spurred a significant rise in marijuana usage, which has increased twofold over the last ten years. At the same time, alcohol consumption is at a historic low, with numerous individuals opting for alternatives like marijuana. It is important to note that forty percent of study subjects met the criteria for alcohol dependence. Although cannabis might be a potential alternative to excessive alcohol use, scientists caution that further research is required. “We’re not ready to advise people in treatment for alcohol, ‘Proceed and substitute marijuana, and it will be effective for you,’” a study author commented.