Long Island Iced Tea (LIIT) is a popular cocktail that has been a staple in bars and restaurants for decades. The drink’s potent combination of five types of liquor – vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec – has led many to wonder if it can produce a high similar to that of marijuana or other psychoactive substances. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Long Island Iced Tea and explore the science behind its effects on the human body.
What is Long Island Iced Tea?
Before we dive into the question of whether Long Island Iced Tea can make you high, let’s first take a look at what the drink is and how it’s made. A traditional Long Island Iced Tea recipe consists of:
- 1 1/2 ounces vodka
- 1 1/2 ounces gin
- 1 1/2 ounces rum
- 1 1/2 ounces tequila
- 1 1/2 ounces triple sec
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 ounce simple syrup
- Cola
The ingredients are combined in a cocktail shaker filled with ice, shaken vigorously, and then strained into a glass filled with ice. The drink is typically garnished with a lemon wedge or wheel.
The Origins of Long Island Iced Tea
Long Island Iced Tea was invented in the 1970s by Robert “Rosebud” Butt, a bartender at the Oak Beach Inn in Hampton Bays, Long Island, New York. According to Butt, the drink was created as a way to use up leftover liquor and to create a cocktail that was both strong and refreshing. The drink quickly gained popularity and spread to bars and restaurants across the country.
Does Long Island Iced Tea Contain THC?
One of the main reasons people wonder if Long Island Iced Tea can make you high is because of its potent combination of liquors. However, the answer to this question is a resounding no – Long Island Iced Tea does not contain THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana.
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. It’s responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use. However, THC is not found in any of the ingredients used to make Long Island Iced Tea.
What About CBD?
Some people may be wondering if Long Island Iced Tea contains CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. While CBD has gained popularity in recent years for its potential health benefits, it’s not typically found in Long Island Iced Tea.
However, some bars and restaurants have started to offer CBD-infused versions of Long Island Iced Tea. These drinks typically contain a CBD tincture or syrup that’s added to the drink. However, it’s essential to note that CBD-infused Long Island Iced Tea is not the same as traditional Long Island Iced Tea.
The Effects of Long Island Iced Tea
So, if Long Island Iced Tea doesn’t contain THC or CBD, what are its effects on the human body? The answer lies in the drink’s potent combination of liquors.
Long Island Iced Tea is a high-ABV drink, with a typical ABV of around 20-25%. This means that the drink can cause significant impairment, especially when consumed in large quantities.
The effects of Long Island Iced Tea can include:
- Impaired judgment and coordination
- Slurred speech and dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches and fatigue
These effects are similar to those experienced with other high-ABV drinks, such as whiskey or vodka. However, the combination of liquors in Long Island Iced Tea can make its effects more unpredictable.
The Risks of Long Island Iced Tea
While Long Island Iced Tea can be a fun and refreshing drink, it’s essential to be aware of its risks. The drink’s high ABV and potent combination of liquors can increase the risk of:
- Alcohol poisoning
- Impaired driving
- Violent behavior
- Unprotected sex
It’s essential to drink Long Island Iced Tea responsibly and to never drink and drive.
How to Drink Long Island Iced Tea Safely
If you’re looking to try Long Island Iced Tea, there are several ways to drink it safely:
- Start with a small amount: If you’re new to Long Island Iced Tea, start with a small amount and see how your body reacts.
- Eat before you drink: Eating a meal before drinking can help slow down the absorption of alcohol.
- Drink slowly: Take your time when drinking Long Island Iced Tea, and avoid drinking it quickly.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the night to stay hydrated.
- Never drink and drive: Always plan ahead and have a designated driver or ride-sharing service.
Alternatives to Long Island Iced Tea
If you’re looking for a drink that’s similar to Long Island Iced Tea but with a lower ABV, there are several alternatives:
- Long Beach Iced Tea: This drink is similar to Long Island Iced Tea but uses cranberry juice instead of cola.
- Electric Iced Tea: This drink uses blue curaçao instead of triple sec, giving it a bright blue color.
- Georgia Iced Tea: This drink uses peach schnapps instead of triple sec, giving it a sweet and fruity flavor.
These drinks can be a fun and refreshing alternative to Long Island Iced Tea, but it’s essential to remember to always drink responsibly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Long Island Iced Tea does not make you high in the same way that marijuana or other psychoactive substances do. However, the drink’s potent combination of liquors can cause significant impairment and increase the risk of alcohol-related problems.
By understanding the effects of Long Island Iced Tea and drinking it responsibly, you can enjoy this popular cocktail while minimizing its risks. Remember to always drink slowly, eat before you drink, and never drink and drive.
Whether you’re a fan of Long Island Iced Tea or just looking to try something new, we hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of this popular cocktail. Cheers!
What is Long Island Iced Tea and how is it made?
Long Island Iced Tea is a popular cocktail made with a combination of five different types of liquor: vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec. The drink is typically mixed with cola and lemon juice, and served over ice in a tall glass. The exact recipe for Long Island Iced Tea can vary depending on the bartender or the establishment serving it, but the basic ingredients remain the same.
The high alcohol content of Long Island Iced Tea comes from the combination of five different types of liquor, each of which contains a significant amount of alcohol. When these liquors are combined and mixed with cola and lemon juice, the result is a drink that can be quite potent. However, the exact amount of alcohol in a Long Island Iced Tea can vary depending on the specific recipe and the amount of each liquor used.
Does Long Island Iced Tea make you high?
Long Island Iced Tea is a drink that contains a significant amount of alcohol, but it does not contain any ingredients that would make you “high” in the classical sense. The drink’s effects are similar to those of other alcoholic beverages, and the “high” feeling that some people experience after drinking it is likely due to the drink’s high alcohol content rather than any other ingredient.
It’s worth noting that some people may be more sensitive to the effects of Long Island Iced Tea than others, and the drink’s high alcohol content can cause a range of effects, from mild relaxation to more severe impairment. However, these effects are not unique to Long Island Iced Tea and can be experienced with other alcoholic beverages as well.
What are the effects of drinking Long Island Iced Tea?
The effects of drinking Long Island Iced Tea can vary depending on the individual and the amount of the drink that is consumed. However, common effects of the drink include feelings of relaxation and euphoria, as well as impaired judgment and coordination. The drink’s high alcohol content can also cause more severe effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and blacking out.
It’s also worth noting that the effects of Long Island Iced Tea can be influenced by a range of factors, including the individual’s weight, age, and drinking history. Additionally, the drink’s effects can be exacerbated by the consumption of other substances, such as food or other beverages.
Is Long Island Iced Tea addictive?
Long Island Iced Tea is a drink that contains a significant amount of alcohol, and like other alcoholic beverages, it can be addictive for some people. However, the drink itself is not inherently addictive, and the risk of addiction depends on a range of factors, including the individual’s drinking habits and history.
It’s worth noting that the high alcohol content of Long Island Iced Tea can make it more likely to lead to addiction, particularly for people who are prone to heavy drinking or who have a history of substance abuse. However, this is not unique to Long Island Iced Tea and can be a risk with any alcoholic beverage.
Can you get a hangover from drinking Long Island Iced Tea?
Yes, it is possible to get a hangover from drinking Long Island Iced Tea. The drink’s high alcohol content can cause dehydration and disrupt the body’s natural processes, leading to a range of symptoms, including headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
The risk of getting a hangover from Long Island Iced Tea can be influenced by a range of factors, including the amount of the drink that is consumed, the individual’s drinking history, and the presence of other substances, such as food or other beverages.
How can you drink Long Island Iced Tea safely?
To drink Long Island Iced Tea safely, it’s recommended to consume the drink in moderation and to be aware of the potential risks associated with its high alcohol content. This includes eating food before or while drinking, pacing yourself, and avoiding the consumption of other substances that can exacerbate the drink’s effects.
It’s also a good idea to drink Long Island Iced Tea in a social setting where you can be monitored by friends or others, and to have a plan in place for getting home safely. Additionally, it’s recommended to avoid drinking Long Island Iced Tea if you have a history of substance abuse or if you are prone to heavy drinking.
What are some alternatives to Long Island Iced Tea?
If you’re looking for alternatives to Long Island Iced Tea, there are a range of other cocktails and beverages that you can try. Some popular alternatives include the Cosmopolitan, the Mojito, and the Margarita, all of which contain lower amounts of alcohol than Long Island Iced Tea.
You can also consider trying non-alcoholic beverages, such as mocktails or virgin cocktails, which can be just as flavorful and enjoyable as their alcoholic counterparts. Additionally, you can try reducing the amount of alcohol in your Long Island Iced Tea by using less liquor or substituting some of the liquor with non-alcoholic ingredients.