Liquor, Wine, or Weed? A Wellness-Centered Look at Their Health Impacts

When it comes to how we unwind or socialize, many of us turn to a glass of wine, a cocktail, or, increasingly, cannabis. But how do these substances really impact our health—and what does it mean to make the “least toxic” choice?

Let’s break it down—factually, holistically, and with intention.

Liquor: High Impact, High Risk

Liquor—vodka, rum, tequila, whiskey—is the most concentrated form of alcohol, often between 35%–50% alcohol by volume (ABV). That means more alcohol per ounce—and more pressure on your liver, brain, and body.

The CDC links excessive alcohol use to over 200 health conditions, including liver disease, heart problems, depression, anxiety, and increased cancer risk. The more concentrated the alcohol (like liquor), the greater the toxic load.

Cheap vs. High-End Liquor: Does It Matter?

Bottom line: Even high-end liquor is still a highly processed, human-altered toxin. It might taste better and go down smoother—but it doesn’t erase the long-term risks.

Wine: Slightly Gentler, But Not Without Risks

Red wine gets credit for containing resveratrol, an antioxidant found in grape skins that may support heart health and reduce inflammation. But studies show this only holds true in very moderate amounts: 1 glass per day for women, 2 for men.

According to The Lancet (2022), even moderate alcohol intake increases the risk of cancer, brain aging, and cardiovascular issues. And most wines still contain sulfites and sugars, which can cause inflammation.

Bottom line: Wine may be less harmful than liquor and carry trace antioxidant benefits—but it’s still alcohol, and still processed.

Cannabis: Plant-Based, But Not Risk-Free

Cannabis is different from alcohol in that it’s not a processed liquid—it’s a plant, and in its most natural form, it remains closer to earth and ancestral medicine.

According to the National Academies of Sciences (2017):

• Cannabis can help with chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep
  

• It doesn’t carry the same liver or organ damage risks as alcohol
  

• It’s not physically addictive in the same way alcohol is
  

But it’s not without risk. Heavy use can affect memory, mood, and motivation—especially in younger users. Smoking can also irritate the lungs.

Cheap vs. High-Quality Cannabis: A Major Difference

Important Note: Cannabis from a licensed dispensary is usually safer and cleaner. It’s tested, regulated, and more likely to offer therapeutic benefits without the unknowns that come with street cannabis.

What Comes From the Earth Often Comes With Balance

Whether it’s skincare, food, or how we decompress—what comes from the earth, with minimal human interference, usually carries fewer toxins and more balance.

Liquor and wine go through intense human processing—fermentation, distillation, filtration, flavoring, bottling. Cannabis, especially when purchased from a reputable dispensary and consumed responsibly, remains closer to its natural state.

So What’s the Least Toxic Choice?

If you’re focused on holistic, non-toxic living:

• Liquor (even top-shelf) is the most toxic to your body and brain
  

• Wine is gentler but still processed and risky in larger amounts
  

• Cannabis, when sourced intentionally, may offer benefits with fewer long-term health consequences
  

Final Thoughts

Wellness isn’t about perfection—it’s about intentional choices that support how you want to feel. If you’re going to unwind, ask yourself:

• Where did this come from?
  

• How was it processed?
  

• And how will it make me feel tomorrow—not just tonight?
  

Choosing what comes closer to the earth often brings us closer to balance.

Sources:

• CDC: Alcohol and Public Health
  

• The Lancet, 2022: No Level of Alcohol Improves Health
  

• National Academies, 2017: Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids
  

• Harvard Health: Red Wine and Heart Health
  

Leafly: Cannabis Lab Testing Standards