Many people dealing with chronic or occasional pain are looking for alternative remedies that don’t involve addictive opioids. Delta-8 THC, one of over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, is one option being explored. This article looks at the latest research on whether Delta-8 may help treat pain conditions, how it compares to Vegan CBD Gummies and Delta-9 THC, potential risks and side effects, and product options worth considering based on desired effects and legal status.
What is Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a psychoactive compound found naturally in cannabis plants. It provides mild intoxicating effects when consumed but is less potent than delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana.
Both Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which includes cannabinoid receptors dispersed throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems, immune system, and other organs. When activated, these receptors can reduce sensitivity to pain signals. Delta-8 is nearly identical to Delta-9 THC chemically but binds to cannabinoid receptors differently, delivering a more mellow high.
Potential Benefits of Delta-8 for Specific Pain Types
While we can’t say for certain how delta 8 may assist unpaid individuals based on the relatively few clinical trials to date, extrapolating from its mechanism of action and analogous compounds, some have proposed it could help with:
- Neuropathic Pain: Conditions caused by nerve damage such as shingles, diabetes, or spinal cord injuries often involve neuropathic components. Activating the endocannabinoid system has been demonstrated through various means to alleviate pain in animal models of neuropathy by inhibiting overexcited pain signaling. Delta 8’s modulation of CB1 receptors suggests it could also alleviate neuropathic pain sensations.
- Inflammatory Pain: The cannabinoid and endocannabinoid systems regulate inflammatory processes in the body. Clinical research on CBD, another non-intoxicating cannabinoid, has linked it to reductions in arthritis pain through anti-inflammatory effects. Studies show delta 8 behaves as an anti-inflammatory. So, it stands to reason that it may help curb pain from conditions with inflammatory underpinnings like arthritis.
- Migraines and Tension Headaches: Preclinical data implies delta 8’s interaction at CB1 receptors in areas of the brain regulating sensory processing could inhibit trigeminal nerve activity and provide migraine relief. Population-based surveys also link cannabis use to fewer headache days. Delta 8 may serve as a milder option than Delta 9 for some headache or migraine sufferers.
- Cancer Pain: Cannabinoids are being increasingly researched for their ability to moderate cancer pain through multiple mechanisms within both the peripheral and central nervous systems. At the very least, delta 8 could serve as a supplemental treatment to help cancer patients wean off or decrease their reliance on opioids.
Comparing Delta-8 to CBD and Delta-9 THC for Pain
Each cannabinoid offers a unique pain-relieving profile. CBD (cannabidiol) doesn’t cause psychoactivity and may work better for inflammation, while Delta-9 THC directly targets pain receptors in the brain. Delta-8 THC combines aspects of both: it is mildly intoxicating with Delta-9 but lacks some psychoactive effects and may be better tolerated.
Overall, clinical research indicates Delta-8 provides comparable relief to Delta-9 THC without as strong of a “high.” Another potential advantage is Delta-8’s legality compared to marijuana in most states. Its effects seem to fall between CBD and traditional cannabis for many in terms of both pain reduction and side effects.
Delta-8 Products and Consumption Methods
A variety of topical creams, tinctures, gummies, and vapes containing Delta-8 THC extract are commercially available online and in medical marijuana dispensaries across the U.S. Users seeking relief from arthritis in their hands may apply cream directly to sore joints before bed. CBD Vegan Hemp Gummies (Mixed Fruits) and other edible gummies provide relief over several hours and are convenient for travel.
Tinctures using MCT oil as a carrier allow for precise titration under the tongue as needed. Vaporizing Delta-8 distillate or eating Delta-8-infused foods produces effects within minutes for acute pain flare-ups. The onset of effects and total experience may vary slightly depending on the product and method of ingestion. Regardless, starting with a small serving size is recommended.
Safety Considerations with Delta-8 Use
No overdoses from Delta-8 alone have been reported to date. However, it is always wise to discuss recreational or medical cannabis use with your healthcare provider, especially if taking other medications. Similar to Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 may cause side effects like dry mouth, dizziness, impaired coordination, and anxiety at high doses. There are also concerns it could be contaminated with heavy metals during extraction or synthesis. That’s why choosing products from reputable manufacturers who provide lab test results is important.
Due to a lack of long-term studies, Delta-8 isn’t advisable for pregnant/breastfeeding women or those with schizophrenia or other mental illnesses without consulting a doctor. Overall, Delta-8 appears to be a safer choice for pain than dangerous opioids when used responsibly and as prescribed.
Conclusion
Delta-8 THC shows promise as an alternative treatment for pain that provides relief comparable to cannabis with less psychoactive effects. While research is still early, first-hand accounts and existing data indicate Delta-8 may help manage conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and nerve pain.
Its legal status, fewer side effects compared to Delta-9 THC, and availability of various product formats also make Delta-8 an appealing option worth considering under a doctor’s guidance. As trials continue and more is learned about its mechanisms and safety profile, Delta-8 may emerge as a viable option within the emerging field of cannabis medicine.