For years now research has shown a wide range of (potential) benefits to the consumption of marijuana – beyond the recreational use cases it’s widely known for.
From alleviating the symptoms of Glaucoma to providing a more natural form of pain control – advocates of the green stuff are not in short supply. But for those who are more sensitive to some of the more problematic effects of cannabis, there has been an increased interest in the potential of ‘family’ members such as CBD and increasingly, Delta 8 THC.
Delta 8 is often seen as the middle ground between CBD and the stronger Delta 9 THC strain found in cannabis. It gets you high – but not too high. And is often seen to offer similar health benefits – relief from pain, nausea, and even depression.
A Scientific Survey on Delta 8
An online survey conducted by The Conversation surveyed over 500 participants across 38 states asking users about their habitual use of Delta 8.
Most participants surveyed took Delta 8 as either an edible or tincture (oil) – and roughly half of those surveyed were using Delta 8 purely to treat a health condition – in many cases, the kinds of conditions that are traditionally seen to be manageable using Delta 9 THC.
The results? Most reported that the use of Delta 8 THC provides a similar set of results – relaxation and pain relief – without the ‘intensity’ of high that cannabis brings with it. So, a yes to the benefits of THC, without the distressing or distorting psychological effects – anxiety and paranoia – or even the more mundane impacts of cannabis consumption – lack of motivation, memory issues, and so on.
Most users reported a reduction in the use of pharmaceutical drugs or consumption of THC 9 products because of using Delta 8 (though admittedly many felt uncomfortable sharing and bringing this practice into conversation with their primary care doctors).
While it needs to be stressed that there is more research to be done – the initial signs suggest a positive outcome for users of Delta 8 as a substitute or replacement for the more potent variety.
What can Delta 8 be used for?
A list of potential health benefits summarized in an article by CFAH on the uptake of Delta 8 cited at least seven potential benefits of this less potent cannabinoid including:
1. A Smoother Psychoactive Experience
2. Appetite Boost
3. Neuroprotection
4. Better Sleep
5. Digestive Support
6. Relaxation
7. Pain Relief
The emerging consensus appears to be that Delta 8 THC offers many of the same benefits as Delta 9 but at about half the potency in terms of lived effects. If you’re looking for the beneficial boosts of marijuana, without the trippy and occasionally anxiety-inducing side effects, it might be a good starting place for you.
In the state of Georgia, Delta 8 is legal at a federal level – so if it’s important to you, you can also enjoy this substance without having to worry about breaking the law.
For a more general overview – check out our user’s guide to Delta 8 – and get in touch if you have any more questions for the team here at ATL Dispensary.
You can shop and browse our range of Delta 8 products at the ATL Dispensary site.
