Delta 8 For Pain Relief: Will It Help?

Delta 8 THC is a lesser-known cannabinoid that is found in smaller concentrations in the cannabis plant. It is similar to delta 9 THC (a more popular plant chemical in marijuana), but it’s legal and doesn’t get people as high. Delta 8 THC has recently gained attention as a potential alternative for pain relief, as it is believed to have analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. In this article, we’ll discuss the current research on using delta 8 THC for pain relief, as well as address the potential risks and benefits of using it to help manage pain, naturally.

What is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid, which is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant species which includes both marijuana and industrial hemp. There are many of these cannabinoids that are produced by the cannabis plant, and it is believed to have a wide variety of therapeutic effects on us, when used.

Keep in mind that there are many different forms of THC. Delta 8 THC is similar to delta 9 THC, which is the most well-known cannabinoid that is found in marijuana. THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. However, delta 8 THC is believed to have a much weaker psychoactive effect when compared to delta 9 THC and may be more suitable for those who are looking for the therapeutic benefits of cannabis – with more mild psychoactive effects. Regardless, using delta 8 will get you high. If this is something you do not want, please, refrain from taking THC products.

How is Delta 8 THC Used for Pain Relief?

Delta 8 THC is most commonly consumed through inhalation via smoking or vaporizing. It can also be taken orally in the form of edibles, tinctures, or capsules. Delta 8 gummies are very popular, as are most gummy forms of cannabis goods.

When delta 8 THC is consumed, it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is a network of receptors that is involved in a variety of physiological processes and benefits. These benefits include changing the way we feel pain. Essentially, by interacting with these cannabinoid receptors, delta 8 THC is believed to effect us in different ways. Cannabinoid receptors are also the reason why people feel high after consuming marijuana.

Research on Delta 8 THC for Pain Relief

There is limited research on the use of delta 8 THC for pain relief, but the available studies suggest that it may have potential as a therapeutic agent for this purpose.

One study conducted in mice found that delta 8 THC was effective in reducing inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. The study found that delta 8 THC reduced inflammation in the joints and improved mobility in the mice.

Another study conducted in humans found that delta 8 THC was effective in reducing chronic pain in patients with cancer. The study found that delta 8 THC was well-tolerated and produced significant improvements in pain levels in the majority of patients.

While these studies suggest that delta 8 THC may have therapeutic potential for pain relief, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and the optimal dosing and administration.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Using Delta 8

Like any medication, there are potential risks to using delta 8 THC for pain relief. It is important to consider these, carefully, before deciding to take delta 8 products.

Side effects of Delta 8 include:

• red eyes
• dry mouth
• paranoia
• dizziness
• anxiety

Red eyes and dry mouths are commonly reported side effects. Paranoia and anxiety are more commonly reported in those that are prone to anxiety attacks. This is likely because using delta 8 gets the user high.

Delta 8 vs CBD For Pain Relief

Being a (mainly) CBD site, it’s important we compare the use of delta 8 vs CBD for pain relief. When it comes to trying to choose which is better for pain relief, we’re going to have to side with CBD.

There just aren’t enough human studies surrounding delta 8 use, specifically, to address pain. For this reason, there is no conclusive evidence that delta 8 can treat pain, let alone treat pain more effectively than CBD. Regardless, both are not authorized for use for the treatment of pain by the Food and Drug Administration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Delta 8 THC Legal?

The legal status of delta 8 THC varies by state and country. In the United States, delta 8 THC is currently legal under federal law, as it is not specifically listed as a controlled substance. However, some states have laws that specifically prohibit the use of delta 8 THC, so it is important to check the laws in your state before using this cannabinoid.

It is also important to note that the legal status of delta 8 THC may change in the future, as it is a relatively new cannabinoid.

Where Can You Buy Delta 8 Products?

You can buy delta 8 products in select stores, both retail and online. Plenty of places are trying to sell delta 8 products before states ban the use of d8 THC. A quick internet search should yield several results for buying delta 8 online.

Will Delta 8 Get Me High?

Yes, delta 8 will get you high. Remember, it is a THC derivative, and THC get’s people high. While delta 8 may not get you as high as delta 9 THC, it will still create an intoxicating effect in you.

Are CBD Gummies Better Than Delta 8 Gummies For Pain Relief?

As I mentioned above, I am going to side with CBD gummies for pain relief being more effective than delta 8 gummies. Again, this is simply because CBD has many, many more studies done on its’ use to help deal with pain. Delta 8, on the other hand, has a minimal amount of scientific data on its’ use to help manage pain.

Anecdotal evidence does suggest, however, that using delta 8 gummies for pain relief does work. It all comes down to personal preference, and your own body chemistry.

Summary – Using Delta 8 THC to Help Manage Your Pain

There are a few things to consider if you are considering using delta 8 THC for pain relief.

First, it is important to note that delta 8 THC is not legal in all states. In states where it is legal, it may be available in a variety of forms, including oils, tinctures, gummies, and vaporizers.

It is also important to note that delta 8 THC is not FDA-approved for use as a pain reliever. While some studies suggest that it may have therapeutic potential, more research is needed to make sure it’s safe for long term use, and actually works as intended.

Should you choose to purchase any delta 8 products, please make sure that you buy only from reputable companies that sell high-quality, legal, and legitimate delta 8 items.

References

Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29450258/
Journal of the National Cancer Institute: https://academic.oup.com/jnci/