The wellness industry is growing with the new hype of cannabis. The growing research shows the advantages of cannabinoids in curing many health issues. Although the topic is still under research, it can’t decline the trend giving new cannabinoids a spotlight. One such newly gaining attention is Delta 8 THC, a chemical version of a cannabinoid that is making its way into the wellness industry. Unlike other famous cannabinoids, Delta-8 THC is an isomer. It is a chemical version of Delta-9 THC. Let’s learn more about it in detail.
What is Delta-8 THC?
Cannabinoids are naturally found in the cannabis plants These plants are native to South Asia mainly. Like all the other cannabinoids, Delta-8 THC also naturally occurs in hemp. The only thing with it is it only happens sometimes making it rare. However, Delta-8 THC is closely related to Delta-9 THC but it is less potent and less psychoactive. Delta-8 THC provides less anxious but more clear-headed experiences as compared to Delta-9 THC.
Delta-8 THC is chemically derived from hemp and the 2018 Farm Bill makes it legal as it regulates hemp and its derivatives with less than 0.3% of Delta-9 THC in the United States. About being the isomer of Delta-9 THC, the chemical structure of both cannabinoids is identical except for one chemical bond. Sometimes Delta-9 THC also converts into Delta-8 THC naturally if exposed to air or light.
Delta 8 THC Benefits
Milder Psychoactive Effects
One thing that makes Delta-8 THC attractive is its mild psychoactive effects. Research suggests Delta-8 THC is less psychoactive and is a great option to deal with anxiety and paranoia. Users find it more beneficial for focus and a clear mind.
Pain Relieving Effects
Delta-8 THC is also being researched for its potential pain-relieving properties and many research support it for being analgesic. Some users have also witnessed alleviating chronic pain. Many users prefer it for handling discomfort and inflammation as an alternative to traditional medicines.
AntiEmic Effects
Research published till now has a strong opinion in favor of Delta-8 THC being prominent in anti-emic effects. It helps in reducing vomiting and nausea. Many cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy often deal with these unbearing conditions while Delta-8 THC helps them cope with these.
Promotes Healthy Hunger
Being from the same chemical family as Delta 9, Delta 8 THC promotes the same properties and appetite stimulation is one of those. Delta-8 THC gives good “munchies” effects to individuals who have lost their appetite due to medical conditions.
Neuroprotective Properties
Studies suggest Delta-8 THC might help in improving the cognitive function of a person. Its neuroprotective properties can enhance cognitive function while protecting brain cells. This criterion still needs much research and medical application to get approved but if true, it could have great impacts on neurodegenerative diseases.
Improved Focus
Just being one chemical bond different from Delta-9 THC makes Delta-8 THC eliminate the mental fog that comes with Delta-9. Delta-8 helps a person increase focus without dealing with jitters. It improves productivity.
Stress Relieving
Preliminary reports suggest that respondents report more relaxed and less anxious behavior after taking Delta 8 THC. They feel calm without getting overwhelmed by the associated feelings that used to come with Delta 9 THC.
Side Effects of Delta-8 THC
However much the benefits of Delta 8 THC can be, some side effects cannot be neglected. Better Safe than Sorry! Be aware of the possible side effects. Results vary according to individuals but it is important to play safe when the idea is of dealing with sensitive content like Delta 8 THC.
1. Sore Eyes
One commonly seen side effect of Delta 8 THC is sore eyes. People feel redness in their eyes and sometimes fatigue can also make their eyes puffy. Though using eye drops can help one deal with this cannabinoid reaction.
2. Dry Mouth
Dehydration is another common side effect associated with Delta 8 THC. It is a typical cannabinoid reaction and drinking enough water can make this manageable.
3. Doziness
Delta 8 THC is commonly found to cause sleepiness and fatigue in a person. Whereas people with insomnia find it beneficial to aid their sleep, it is not ideal for people willing to get something to be energetic and remain alert all day.
4. Increased Heart Rate
Some people have also reported increased heart rate problems with Delta 8 THC consumption. People with heart-related issues should avoid it. Still, it is always better to consult a healthcare professional about consuming Delta 8 THC products.
5. Psychoactive Effects
Although Delta 8 THC is not as psychoactive as Delta 9 THC, it is still considered to produce some at a level. The dosage quantity, health of the consumer, and tolerance level to the potent varies the psychoactive effects. It is always better to start with a low dose and increase gradually.
6. Confusion
Some users have also explained their experience of mental haziness after taking Delta 8 THC. Some examples of hallucinations are also recorded.
7. Health history and Medications
Being a chemical variant, Delta 8 THC is capable of interacting with certain kinds of medications. Sometimes Delta 8 THC reacts adversely with the prescribed drugs and affects the central nervous system. It is better to consult a professional aware of your health history.
Legal Considerations
With so much information and gossip around Delta 8 THC being legal or deregulated, the topic is complex and complicated to understand. Even though the 2018 Farm Bill has already legalized hemp and its derivates including Delta 8 THC, many states have opposed the component and banned it. FDA has also not approved Delta 8 THC for safe use and published a detailed blog here. It is better to be safe, aware, legally compliant, and consulted by your doctor. To ensure quality control, many brands use third-party lab testing to make their Delta 8 THC products stand strong in the market.
Different Forms of Delta-8 THC:
There are different products available in the market to fulfill your Delta-8 THC needs. You can go at your convenience and requirements:
Tropicals: People looking for mild Delta 8 THC with no huge impact can go for balms and creams infused with it for more specific relief.
Vapes: Many brands are offering flavorful vapes and cartridges of Delta 8 THC to make your vaping experience full of relaxation.
Edibles: Some brands believe in consuming Delta 8 THC for better reaction and they are manufacturing flavorful gummies, chocolates, and other treats infused with Delta 8 THC.
Tinctures: These are liquid extracts of Delta 8 THC to keep under the tongue and let it react in your body without inhaling or consuming it directly.
Capsules: Lastly, many brands are also manufacturing Delta 8 THC-infused pills for easy dosing for patients seeking relaxation.
Conclusion
A rare and mostly chemically formed cannabinoid Delta 8 THC is a less-psychoactive alternative of Delta 9 THC. It uniquely offers the potential benefits of traditional THC products. The mild psychoactive effect of Delta 8 THC makes it a good option for potential therapeutic benefits. However, it is still associated with some side effects that must be known before deciding to proceed. Don’t forget to take care of the legal considerations of your area too. Always begin with a low dose and let your body react to it. Stay informed and consult doctors about all your concerns and better knowledge.
Currently, the potent is still under research, but its gaining popularity makes it conventional. It is still an intriguing option for people willing to explore the cannabinoidal world.
Read also: Exploring the Benefits and Uses of THC-P: What We Know So Far
