Why does Delta 8 THC enjoy such hype? Is it miraculous, what are its effects, and what does science say. We’ll tell you everything.
Delta 8 THC has become the most talked-about cannabis product in recent months. In partly because of findings that it has similar therapeutic benefits to CBD and standard THC without the intense psychoactive effects. And also partly because of the controversy surrounding its legality.
Its popularity continues to grow as more delta 8 THC products become available online based on testimonials from those who use it for medical and recreational purposes. But in exact meaning, what is Delta 8?
How is it different from more well-known cannabinoids such as CBD and THC? The goal of our beginner’s guide to the Delta 8 THC is to explain the basics in simple terms so that you can make your own decisions before trying and using it.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 THC (short for delta eight tetrahydrocannabinol) is one of more than 100 cannabinoids naturally produced by the cannabis plant. Cannabinoids are active compounds from marijuana and marijuana.
They work with the body’s endocannabinoid system to support homeostasis, or overall balance and well-being. Unlike the cannabinoids CBD and Delta 9 THC (the latter being the technical name for standard THC that most people are familiar with), Delta 8 THC is produced very little by the plant itself.
However, recent cannabis extraction and conversion advancements have made it possible to isolate pure Delta 8 THC and turn it into products for consumers. Delta 8 THC can probably best be described as a less potent, more uplifting, and lucid version of Delta 9 THC.
The difference between delta 8 and Delta 9 is very small from a scientific point of view. A carbon double bond exists in the 8th position of the molecular chain for Delta 8 compared to the 9th position for Delta 9.
What are the benefits of Delta 8 THC?
According to the National Cancer Institute, Delta 8 THC has antiemetic (reduces nausea), anxiolytic (reduces anxiety), appetite stimulant, analgesic (pain reliever), and neuroprotective properties. Based on the limited research to date and feedback from current users, Delta 8 THC products may be an option for:
- Seek the relaxation of a natural product more potent than CBD but less potent than THC
- Who has benefited from using Delta 9 THC but don’t want the intense high that comes with it
- It is strongly recommended that you consult your doctor before using Delta 8 THC, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking prescription medication.
What does science say about Delta 8 THC?
Medical research on the benefits and effects of Delta 8 is still limited. Much remains to be learned about delta 8 THC and other cannabinoids from human-controlled trials and research. Our review of research on Delta 8 THC yielded just a few results:
Antiemetic (effective against vomiting and nausea) – In this 1995 study, Delta 8 THC completely prevented vomiting with negligible side effects in children treated with anti-cancer drugs.
Reduced Pain and Inflammation: Topical application of Delta 8 THC and CBD reduced corneal pain and inflammation in this 2018 mouse study. The findings support reports noted by the researchers that activating the endocannabinoid system can be analgesic (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory.
Appetite Stimulant: This 2004 study found that Delta 8 THC given to mice at very low doses “tends to increase food consumption and improve cognitive function with no side effects. These researchers believe that low doses of THC are a “potential therapeutic agent in the treatment of weight disorders.” led to the conclusion that it may be.
What are consumers saying about Delta 8 THC?
Many users have shared their personal Delta 8 THC experiences on Facebook groups. These anecdotal comments can be helpful for beginners and will give you an idea of what others are saying. But since cannabis products affect each person differently, don’t assume you’ll get similar results.
Will Delta 8 THC get you high?
According to user reports, using delta 8 THC can lead to psychotropic effects similar to Delta 9 THC. The intensity of these effects varies from person to person and also depends on how much you have consumed.
Some users have reported experiencing a “light and clear high.” In contrast, others report experiencing higher levels of anxiety, nausea, and paranoia than one would expect when using high doses of Delta 9 THC in marijuana.
Assuming you want to avoid the high, taking Delta 8 THC in very low amounts is recommended. This is especially true if you’re starting and don’t know what to expect. Over time, you will better understand how your body reacts to Delta 8 and will be better able to decide how much you should take to get the desired results.
Delta 8 THC Dosing Guide
As with all cannabis products, there is no “right” dose or amount to achieve optimal results. The effects of delta 8 THC and other cannabinoids like CBD are highly individualized. And you can expect different effects depending on how much you take.
You will need to experiment to find the optimal dose or the perfect amount that gives you the effects you want without unwanted side effects.
The key is to start low. This means starting with a puff if you’re vaping, a quarter or half of the gum (you can cut these into pieces), or a few drops of a tincture, depending on how strong it is. By starting low and gradually increasing over time, you can find the optimal amount that works best for you.
