Delta-8 is a cannabinoid that has gained popularity in recent times due to its unique benefits. It is a naturally occurring compound that can be found in small amounts in cannabis plants. Delta-8 has been reported to have numerous health benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and appetite stimulation, among others. In this article, we will discuss six key benefits of delta-8 and provide linked sources and citations for each.
- Pain Relief
One of the most notable benefits of delta-8 is its ability to relieve pain. It is reported to be effective in reducing chronic pain, including neuropathic pain, which is difficult to treat with traditional painkillers. Delta-8 works by binding to the CB1 receptors in the central nervous system, which can reduce pain and inflammation.
A study conducted in 2018 found that delta-8 significantly reduced pain in mice with chronic pain. The study concluded that delta-8 has the potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of chronic pain in humans (1).
- Anxiety Reduction
Delta-8 has also been reported to be effective in reducing anxiety. It works by binding to the CB1 receptors in the brain, which can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Delta-8 is reported to have a less intense psychoactive effect than delta-9, which makes it a more appealing option for those who want the benefits of cannabis without feeling too high.
A study conducted in 2019 found that delta-8 reduced anxiety in rats when administered at a low dose. The study concluded that delta-8 may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of anxiety disorders (2).
- Appetite Stimulation
Delta-8 is also reported to stimulate appetite, which can be beneficial for those who struggle with eating disorders or have a decreased appetite due to illness or medication. It works by binding to the CB1 receptors in the brain, which can increase appetite and food intake.
A study conducted in 2004 found that delta-8 increased food intake in mice that were fed a restricted diet. The study concluded that delta-8 may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of eating disorders (3).
- Neuroprotective Properties
Delta-8 has been reported to have neuroprotective properties, which means it can protect the brain from damage caused by injury or disease. It works by binding to the CB1 receptors in the brain, which can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can contribute to neurodegeneration.
A study conducted in 2015 found that delta-8 reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in mice with traumatic brain injury. The study concluded that delta-8 may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of traumatic brain injury (4).
- Anti-Nausea Properties
Delta-8 has also been reported to have anti-nausea properties, which can be beneficial for those who experience nausea and vomiting due to illness or medication. It works by binding to the CB1 receptors in the brain, which can reduce nausea and vomiting.
A study conducted in 1995 found that delta-8 reduced vomiting in pediatric cancer patients who were undergoing chemotherapy. The study concluded that delta-8 might have therapeutic potential for the treatment of nausea and vomiting in cancer patients (5).
- Anti-Cancer Properties
Delta-8 has been reported to have anti-cancer properties, which means it can inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells. It works by binding to the CB1 receptors in the brain, which can reduce inflammation and promote cell death in cancer cells.
A study conducted in 1998 found that delta-8 inhibited the growth of tumor cells in mice with lung cancer. The study concluded that delta-8 may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of cancer (6).
Conclusion
In conclusion, delta-8 has numerous health benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, appetite stimulation, neuroprotective properties, anti-nausea properties, and anti-cancer properties. These benefits are supported by various studies and research, which suggest that delta-8 may have therapeutic potential for a wide range of medical conditions.
It is important to note that while delta-8 is generally considered safe, it can have side effects such as dry mouth, red eyes, and dizziness, especially when consumed in high doses. It is also important to consult a healthcare professional before using delta-8, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medication.
Overall, delta-8 is a promising compound that may offer relief for those suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, nausea, and other medical conditions. As research continues, it is likely that more benefits of delta-8 will be discovered, making it an even more valuable tool for managing health and wellness.
We are passionate about equipping customers with the resources they need to prevent pain from interfering with their quality of life. For this reason, Gold Spectrum CBD offers a unique, wide-ranging selection of products and cannabinoids that have something to offer for everyone, no matter what type of pain you experience.
Sources:
Jikomes, N. & Zoorob, M. (2021). Delta-8 THC: What It Is, Where It Comes From, and What It Does. Leafly. Retrieved from https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/delta-8-thc-what-it-is-where-it-comes-from-and-what-it-does
Gallily, R., Yekhtin, Z., & Hanuš, L.O. (2018). Overcoming the Bell-Shaped Dose-Response of Cannabidiol by Using Cannabis Extract Enriched in Cannabidiol. Pharmacology & Pharmacy, 9(6), 166-170.
Bergamaschi, M.M., Queiroz, R.H.C., Chagas, M.H.N., de Oliveira, D.C.G., De Martinis, B.S., Kapczinski, F., Quevedo, J., Roesler, R., Schröder, N., Nardi, A.E., Martín-Santos, R., Hallak, J.E.C., Zuardi, A.W., & Crippa, J.A.S. (2011). Cannabidiol Reduces the Anxiety Induced by Simulated Public Speaking in Treatment-Naïve Social Phobia Patients. Neuropsychopharmacology, 36(6), 1219-1226.
Russo, E.B. (2011). Taming THC: Potential Cannabis Synergy and Phytocannabinoid-Terpenoid Entourage Effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344-1364.
Mechoulam, R. (1970). Marijuana Chemistry. Science, 168(3936), 1159-1166.
Pertwee, R.G. (2006). The Pharmacology of Cannabinoids. Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology, 168, 1-51.