Is Tequila an Upper?

It’s well-known that alcohol is a depressant, meaning it slows down your brain, neural activity, and central nervous system. Overindulging in alcohol is never recommended, as it impairs your mood, behavior, judgment, and overall functioning. However, you may have heard rumors about tequila being the opposite; some may claim that tequila is an upper.

So, why is tequila an upper if all alcohol, in general, is a downer? Don’t fear. We researched for you so you can bust the myths and show off your tequila knowledge at your next gathering.

What is Tequila?

First, let’s start with Tequila 101. Tequila comes from the agave plant and is always made in Mexico; otherwise, it’s not considered tequila, according to the Tequila Regulatory Council. Tequila is harvested from agave, distilled into Blanco Tequila (the most common expression), and possibly aged into other tequila varieties like Reposado and Añejo Tequilas.

Tequila is considered one of the healthiest spirits because it’s low in carbohydrates and calories. Plus, it has even more surprising health benefits, like its ability to be a probiotic. However, tequila is not a stimulant.

Is Tequila an Upper?

Because tequila is often included in parties and celebrations, many claim that tequila is an upper. However, just because tequila is consumed in happy and celebratory moments, that doesn’t make it an upper alcohol. 

Another reason why people are asking if tequila is an upper is that they feel differently after a night of drinking it compared to wine or vodka. Some consumers think they have less of a hangover with tequila than they do with other spirits. This could be attributed to the fact that 100% pure agave tequila contains no sugary additives that enhance headaches and feelings of sluggishness the morning after.

Tequila may stimulate a good time; however, is tequila a stimulant? False. Scientifically, all alcohols are depressants, as defined by the U.S. Department of Human Health and Services—even tequila.

Why Have People Considered Tequila an Upper?

Rumors of tequila being an upper started long before college students began consuming it. Many well-versed in the alcohol distillation process identify tequila as an anomaly in its creation.

To explain, we took notes from Chantal Martineau’s journey through tequila’s history. Through her research across the globe, she discovered that tequila’s chemical composition differs significantly compared to other distilled spirits. As told by Tequila Raiders, the process of distilling tequila is flipped; methanol is collected at the end, during the highest boiling point, instead of at the beginning, as in distilling other spirits. 

This unique chemical composition may explain why people think tequila is an upper or treat tequila as a stimulant, whereas all other liquor is not.

Tequila FAQ

Is tequila alcohol an upper?

Tequila is not an upper, contrary to popular belief and widespread myth.

Is tequila a downer or upper?

Tequila, like every other type of alcohol, is a downer (better known as a depressant) according to science, the CDC, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

What is the only alcohol that is an upper?

Zero alcohols are considered uppers. All alcohols are depressants.

Does tequila act as a stimulant?

Tequila does not act as a stimulant despite its use in generally happy and exciting celebrations and parties.