Delta 8 THC is a minor cannabinoid with the potential to be used in major ways. Research began in the 1970’s and with recent legalization in the 2018 Farm Bill, interest in Delta 8 THC has boomed with both consumers and in the field of science. Delta 8 THC has an array of therapeutic benefits with even more being unlocked through current research. In this guide we will learn some of the many benefits this minor cannabinoid provides.
Anti-Nausea
A 1995 study conducted in Israel followed eight children with cancer over a period of two years. When the patients ingested Delta 8 THC before and for 24 hours after chemotherapy treatment, no vomiting occurred. The study had a 100% success rate with their patients over the course of 480 treatments. Additionally, no side effects were reported.
There is also a patent in the United States for the use of Delta 8 THC in combination with CBD for use as an anti-nausea therapeutic. Within the patent, one patient experienced a 200% increase in appetite when compared to using Delta 9 THC.
Research shows Delta 8 THC could be a great option for those that need relief from nausea and vomiting, such as patients undergoing chemotherapy treatments.
Appetite Stimulant
Delta 8 THC has demonstrated it can significantly improve food intake, even more so than Delta 9 THC. When given to mice, their weight, appetite, activity levels and cognitive function all increased.
By increasing appetite, Delta 8 could be an option to help those with various diseases that cause loss of appetite including patients with AIDS and cancer.
Neuroprotectant
Delta 8 THC stimulates the production of a neurotransmitter known as acetylcholine, benefiting a wide range of mental functions including memory, cognition, arousal, and neuroplasticity, allowing one to learn new things and adapt. A study in 1987 using a mouse model found that Delta 8’s interaction with acetylcholine could be beneficial for Alzheimer’s patients.
Additionally, a study from 1994 found oral administration of Delta 8 THC significantly reduced the severity of neurological deficits in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in rats, a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks healthy brain cells, causing inflammation in the brain.
Delta 8 THC may be a therapeutic option for those with neurological diseases including patients with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and dementia. The need for more research is prominent.
Reduces Anxiety and Stress
Many have reported feeling relaxed and calm after using a Delta 8 THC product and that is because the cannabinoid bonds to the bodies CB1 receptors, helping to calm our minds. Delta 8 THC also has less psychotropic potency when compared to the better-known Delta 9 THC. So though one may experience some euphoria, users will most likely not experience the anxiety and paranoia that can accompany Delta 9 THC.
Anti-Cancer
In 1974, government researchers stumbled on a discovery when testing if Delta 8 THC was harmful to the immune system using mice infected with lung cancer. Not only was Delta 8 THC not harmful to the immune system, but after 20 days of treatment the tumors had reduced in size. Additionally, the survival rate of the mice increased when given Delta 8 THC.
The National Cancer Institute’s drug dictionary list Delta 8 THC as a potential anti-nausea, appetite stimulant, analgesic (relieving pain), and neuroprotectant. With so many affected by cancer worldwide, and many losing their lives annually to this disease, the need for more research on how Delta 8 THC can help patients with cancer is immediate.
Reduces Pain and Inflammation
Research has found Delta 8 THC can be a powerful ally for those with pain, including those with chronic and acute ailments, inflammatory pain, and neuropathic pain. When Delta 8 THC was administered to rat models with corneal injuries, Delta 8 THC reduced both pain and inflammation in the model.
Numerous other studies have demonstrated Delta 8 THC as a potential therapeutic to relieve pain for those suffering.
Gastrointestinal Support
The British Journal of Pharmacology found cannabinoids that interact with the bodies CB1 receptor, such as Delta 8 THC, can help those with various gastrointestinal disorders, and functional bowel disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Delta 8 THC may be a great addition to one’s routine to maintain overall health, or aid with specific ailments. Always speak to your primary care physician before adding any supplements into your health regimen.