Posted on October 20, 2022 by Munchies

It’s completely normal to feel a bit unsure about Delta 8 THC’s side effects, especially if it’s your first time trying it. You’re not alone—most people have been in the same spot. Don’t worry; we’ve got your back!

Like any psychoactive substance, you may experience some side effects, but with Delta 8 THC, they’re usually mild and tend to wear off pretty quickly. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need about possible side effects, how long they might stick around, and the best ways to deal with them.

But first, let’s take a quick pause to cover some basics.

Key Takeaways

  • Common Side Effects – Delta 8 may cause dry mouth, dry eyes, anxiety, and a body high or couch lock, depending on dosage and individual tolerance levels.
  • Groggy “Hangover” – Some users feel slow or fuzzy the morning after using Delta 8, especially with higher doses.
  • Euphoria & Munchies – Delta 8 often brings happiness and euphoria with an increased appetite (hello, munchies!).
  • Personal Factors – Age, weight, metabolism, and tolerance all influence how Delta 8 affects you.
  • Microdosing Helps – To minimize side effects, start with small doses and gradually adjust as needed.

What Is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid found naturally in cannabis plants, offering a milder psychoactive experience compared to Delta 9 THC. Often described as delivering a mix of euphoria, relaxation, and pain relief, Delta 8 THC is becoming popular for those seeking a more balanced high without the intense effects of traditional THC. It’s available in various forms, including gummies, vape pens, pre-rolls, and tinctures.

What Are The Risks of Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC does have potential risks. Some users may experience digestive issues when consuming edibles. Other common side effects include dry eyes, mouth, drowsiness, and an elevated heart rate. Additionally, Delta 8 THC may cause paranoia in some individuals, especially at higher doses.

Another concern is the manufacturing process. Some brands may use harsh solvents or cutting agents during extraction, which could pose health risks. Because Delta 8 THC is not FDA-approved, it’s essential to purchase products from trusted sources, as safety standards can vary. Finally, legal regulations for Delta 8 THC vary by state, and consumers should ensure they comply with local laws.

What are the Side Effects of Delta 8 THC?

While Delta 8’s side effects aren’t as severe as some other substances, they can still pop up, especially if you take larger doses. A Delta 8 “hangover” doesn’t only happen when you overindulge — it also depends on factors like the product type, your body weight, health, tolerance, and how you consume it.

Many side effects are described as a groggy or fuzzy morning. It’s a good idea to avoid heavy doses late at night if you’ve got an early start the next day, as the effects may linger.

Dry Mouth

One of the most common side effects is dry mouth, also known as cottonmouth. Cannabinoids like Delta 8 interact with receptors in your salivary glands, reducing saliva production. Vaping and smoking are the fastest ways to dry mouth, with edibles, tinctures, and capsules coming next in line.

Dry Eyes

The endocannabinoid system is also found in your eyes, like your mouth. Delta 8 can decrease tear production, leaving your eyes feeling dry. Stay hydrated, and consider using eye drops to combat this.

Anxiety

While Delta 8 can calm you down, sometimes it can increase anxious feelings, particularly if you’ve taken a bigger dose than your body can handle. If you’re prone to anxiety, stick with lower doses or try microdosing.

Body High and Couch Lock

A body high is a relaxed, sleepy sensation that can sometimes leave you glued to the couch. While it may sound cozy, it can be overwhelming for some users. Couch lock generally fades after a while, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re using Delta 8 for the first time.

Munchies and Euphoria

One of Delta 8’s more enjoyable effects is the burst of happiness and euphoria that comes with it, often accompanied by a strong urge to raid the fridge. Some users find themselves giggly, uplifted, and feeling a sense of well-being. But make sure you’re in an appropriate setting for all that happiness!

How to Reduce the Side Effects of Delta 8 THC

Now that you’re familiar with Delta 8’s potential side effects let’s explore some easy ways to ease or avoid them altogether:

  • Stay calm if you feel like you’ve taken too much. Panic only makes things worse. Relax and let the high ride out naturally.
  • Hydration is your friend. Drinking plenty of water can help flush Delta 8 from your system while keeping your eyes and mouth moist.
  • Walking or stepping outside can help clear your head and make you feel refreshed.
  • Eating fruits rich in terpenoids, such as pine nuts, lemons, or peppercorns, may help soak up excess Delta 8 in your system.
  • Try sweet snacks or sniff some black pepper to help reset your senses and return to normal.
  • Distract yourself with something enjoyable, such as a game, spending time with your pet, or talking to a friend.
  • A quick nap or shower can be incredibly refreshing.
  • Learn from the experience and pace yourself better next time.

How to Avoid Delta 8 THC Side Effects

So, how do you avoid these side effects entirely? Start with a small dose and gradually increase. Low doses, slowly increased, allow you to find that sweet spot with Delta 8. This is especially important for products like gummies, which take longer to kick in than vapes. Edibles can last up to 12 hours, so waiting for the effects to peak before taking more is key.

Using Delta 8 in a controlled environment is also a good idea, especially if you’re using it recreationally. Staying at home or limiting yourself to lower doses in social settings will keep you safe. Trying Delta 8 with a trusted friend can also help if you’re concerned about feeling anxious.

Stay hydrated! Drink water frequently and avoid alcohol or caffeine, as they can dehydrate you further and amplify side effects. Mixing Delta 8 with alcohol or other substances can increase the chances of side effects like dizziness or stomach discomfort.

What To Do If You Get Too High

Sometimes, you may accidentally take too much, leading to overwhelming sensations. Here are a few tips to help manage if that happens:

  • Try a different cannabinoid. Many people find that Delta 8 is easier to handle than Delta 9 because it has about 50% of the potency.
  • If you are already too high, take slow, deep breaths, drink water, and find a calm place to rest.
  • Let a friend know you’re stepping outside for fresh air if you’re at a party.
  • Distract yourself with relaxing music or watch soothing videos to calm your nerves.

If needed, try blocking the cannabinoids with natural terpenes. Citrus or lavender essential oils contain compounds like limonene, which may help counteract Delta 8. Some people swear by chewing on peppercorns to reduce the intensity, although this is anecdotal.

Finally, remember that this, too, shall pass! The effects will fade after a few hours. If it feels unmanageable, don’t hesitate to contact a friend or consult a medical professional for support.

Does Delta 8 THC Have More Side Effects Than Delta 9 THC?

Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC are closely related, but they each have their unique properties. Delta 8 can be derived from Delta 9. But which one is better if you’re worried about side effects? Let’s break it down:

  • Potency – Delta 9 THC is more potent. You’ll need to take a larger amount of Delta 8 to feel the same effects as a smaller dose of Delta 9. Full spectrum Delta 9 products take potency even further.
  • Psychoactivity – Delta 9 is the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana, making it more psychoactive than Delta 8.
  • Side Effects – Both compounds can cause side effects, but Delta 9’s side effects tend to be more intense and require less product consumed for them to appear.

Final Thoughts

While Delta 8 THC may cause mild side effects like dry mouth, dry eyes, and drowsiness, most users report that these effects are manageable and short-lived. Some people often don’t experience any side effects at all. 

As with any cannabinoid, how you experience Delta 8 will vary based on dosage, individual tolerance, and the method of consumption. The key to minimizing unwanted effects is starting with a low dose and gradually adjusting to find what works best for you. Stay hydrated, pace yourself, and enjoy Delta 8 responsibly to maximize its benefits while minimizing any side effects.

(Disclaimer reminder: This article is not medical advice. It is based on anecdotal user experience alone. If you are thinking about incorporating cannabis (Delta-8 THC, Delta-9 THC, CBD, etc) into your medicinal routine, please consult a healthcare professional. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.)

Disclaimer: This article reflects the laws of the United States at the time it was written. Because cannabis laws in the United States are subject to change at any time, please make sure that you are always staying up to date on your federal, state, and local county’s cannabis laws. Additionally, we are NOT encouraging anyone to break the law––we are simply showing people ways to legally and discreetly bring their cannabis products along with them on their travels so that they may have access to those products when they reach their intended destination.

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