Cannabis has been used for a variety of purposes in many cultures around the world. Medical cannabis is currently legal in 18 states.
This article will explore whether delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive compound, can be deemed beneficial or harmful to the health and wellness of medical patients. We will not touch on the recreational use of marijuana during the discussion.
The short answer is that Delta 8 THC may be beneficial to some people, but it’s not a universal panacea for all ills. Long term use of Delta 8 THC has shown observable improvements to the brain, but there are dangers in using THC during pregnancy and while trying to conceive.
Delta 8 THC has recently gained fame and many companies have started manufacturing THC products. Not all such companies are reliable and not all such products are safe to consume because of their poor quality. If you are someone who needs to use these products, some trustworthy names are Area 52 delta 8 tinctures and gummies, Cake Delta 8 vapes and cartridges, Delta 8 Pro concentrates, Diamond CBD Delta 8 capsules, Delta 8 disposable vape, etc.
Before understanding the usage, benefits, and risks associated with Delta 8 THC, it is important to understand what it is.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 9 THC is a psychoactive substance in marijuana and Delta 8 THC is an isomer of Delta 9 THC. Delta 8 THC is manufactured from CBD taken from the hemp plant. THC has been called the most therapeutically active cannabinoid found in cannabis.
It is known for its ability to induce a high that may last 1-3 hours or longer. Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ(8)-THC) is a potent cannabinoid that is identical in molecular structure to THC, the primary active ingredient in cannabis.
Medical cannabis is also used for the treatment of mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. Legalization for medical versus recreational use is a very controversial topic. In general, patients prefer to use strains that are high in THC and low in Cannabidiol (CBD). However, CBD has some therapeutic benefits that THC does not.
Delta 8 THC is the best-known cannabinoid within the cannabis plant. It creates a feeling of euphoria when it enters the bloodstream and interacts with certain receptors in the brain. When taken, THC interferes with memory functioning and induces feelings of paranoia or psychosis. However, Delta 8 THC does not trigger conditions like paranoia or anxiety in people who are habitual in using more potent products.
Uses of Delta 8 THC
Delta 8 THC is used to treat a variety of health conditions and ailments including:
- Alleviation of chronic pain
- Stimulates appetite and weight gain in cancer patients
- Reduces nausea associated with chemotherapy treatment for cancer
- Induces muscle relaxation for spasticity caused by multiple sclerosis or paraplegia.
- Delta 8 THC may also be used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and glaucoma.
- It can also help relieve the symptoms of a stroke.
- Some clinical research has shown a possible reduction in seizures in epilepsy patients who have received Delta 8 THC.
- It’s used to help relieve various types of pain, including joint pain, headaches, and sore muscles.
- In fact, THC has even been used as a form of alternative treatment for HIV/AIDS since 2012; however, clinical trials did not provide much evidence to support its usefulness.
Unfortunately, because it’s not an FDA-approved medication, it is used outside of clinical trials.
In What Different Forms can Delta 8 THC be Safely Used?
Delta-8-THC can be taken orally in capsule form or sublingually as a spray. The effects of oral ingestion are quick and intense. Only a little bit is necessary for intoxication which quickly turns to an extended euphoric high with intense effects including euphoria, relaxation, and heightened thought processes. Taken sublingually, the effects are subtler but longer lasting. Some users find they experience mild hallucinatory states and have difficulty falling asleep after taking Delta 8 THC.
The oral ingestion method is the safest way to ingest it since it can be absorbed through the digestive system. However, some people prefer to vaporize it in a portable vape cart to reap the full benefits of Delta 8 THC.
Delta 8 THC can also be applied topically in lotions or ointments, but these methods are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
The most commonly used Delta 8 THC products are:
- Delta 8 gummies
- Vape carts
- Vape pens
- Delta 8 E liquids
- Delta 8 flowers
- Delta 8 capsules
- Delta 8 tinctures
In some cases, it can be used in oils only. The tincture can be used for local relief, but should not be ingested. The pills and powders are taken orally when a patient is experiencing a specific ailment or condition. Generally, when Delta 8 THC is taken under the supervision of a trained medical professional, there are no known adverse side effects associated with its use.
Conclusion
As the hemp plant grows in abundance, so is CBD derived from it. This has led many companies to invest in the manufacture of these products. Therefore, it is crucial to understand that poor quality Delta 8 THC products can be harmful to your health. Finding a reliable manufacturer and vendor should be your priority if you want to consume Delta 8 THC products.
