Posted on July 1, 2022 by Munchies

According to a recent CDC poll, one in five Americans struggles with chronic pain, and current treatment options, especially prescription opioids, can carry risks like addiction and overdose. Thankfully, Delta 8 THC is emerging as a possible alternative. A report from the International Journal of Drug Policy even shows Delta 8 THC as one of the most researched cannabinoids.

Key Takeaways

  • Delta 8 is a cannabinoid with potential pain-relieving effects, though research is still limited.
  • Some animal studies suggest that Delta 8 may help with pain and inflammation.
  • Users report Delta 8 offers pain relief for arthritis, back pain, and nerve pain.
  • Delta 8 may bind to CB1 receptors, influencing pain perception and reducing discomfort.
  • Delta 8 products, like gummies and vapes, are popular choices for those seeking potential pain management without the intense effects of Delta 9.

Does Delta 8 THC Help With Pain?

While many know Delta 8 for its relaxing effects, research points to its potential as a pain reliever. Studies have shown that Delta 8 may have analgesic or pain-relieving properties, helping to calm pain-related inflammation.

One significant benefit of Delta 8 for pain management is its anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing inflammation in muscles, joints, or chronic conditions can make pain more manageable and ease discomfort. Additionally, Delta 8 may be beneficial for managing neuropathic pain, which is often a result of nerve damage and common in conditions such as diabetes or multiple sclerosis. Anecdotal evidence suggests that Delta 8 relieves overactive pain signals sent to the brain.

Delta 8 also has calming effects that reduce muscle tension, making it helpful for those dealing with muscle pain, spasms, or post-workout soreness. This relaxation can provide relief after physical exertion or from chronic muscle tension. Furthermore, Delta 8’s impact on mood can positively affect the perception of pain, as chronic pain often leads to mood disturbances and sleep issues, which can worsen pain perception. By uplifting mood and reducing stress, Delta 8 may help break the pain-stress cycle and foster a sense of well-being.

Although Delta 8 shows promise for pain relief, research is still limited, so its effectiveness may vary from person to person. For those with chronic or severe pain, consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended to determine the best approach, especially if Delta 8 is combined with other treatments.

Delta 8 THC and Nerve Pain 

Nerve pain stems from damage to the nervous system, resulting in conditions like diabetic neuropathy, shingles, and spinal cord injuries. It can be either constant or intermittent, ranging from mild to severe. While direct studies on Delta 8 THC and nerve pain are scarce, research on cannabinoids, including Delta 8 THC, suggests potential benefits for neuropathic pain relief. Studies on rats have shown cannabinoids reduce nerve pain and improve life quality, hinting at Delta 8 THC’s potential.

Additionally, historical records show cannabis-based treatments used in ancient China for pain. Although more research is needed, cannabinoids, including Delta 8 THC, offer a natural treatment option worth considering for nerve pain.

Delta 8 THC for Arthritis 

Arthritis causes joint pain and inflammation due to cartilage wear, leading to painful bone friction. While no direct evidence links Delta 8 THC to arthritis pain relief, THC has been shown to alleviate arthritis-related discomfort. Research, especially for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, suggests that cannabinoids reduce inflammation and pain.

Studies have shown that both THC and CBD help improve sleep and reduce pain in arthritis patients. Although Delta 8 THC hasn’t been specifically studied, the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids makes Delta 8 THC a possible aid for managing arthritis symptoms.

Delta 8 THC for Back Pain

Back pain can strike from your ribs down to your glutes, affecting millions regularly. Common causes range from muscle strains to skeletal irregularities like scoliosis, bulging or herniated discs, trauma, or poor posture. Other culprits include overtraining, improper lifting techniques, or spinal stenosis, where the spinal canal narrows and pressures the nerves.

Although there’s no direct clinical research linking Delta 8 THC specifically to back pain, cannabinoids, including Delta 8 THC, have shown promise in easing pain and inflammation, which are key contributors to chronic discomfort. Studies have indicated that cannabinoids may act as pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory agents, suggesting they could provide relief for back pain by addressing its root causes.

A systematic review found significant evidence supporting the use of cannabis in treating back pain. While much research has focused on THC and CBD, the anti-inflammatory properties of Delta 8 may similarly provide relief, particularly for inflammation-driven pain like that from arthritis or muscle strains.

Delta 8 THC for Inflammation

Cannabinoids, including Delta 8 THC, have demonstrated the ability to reduce inflammation. A National Library of Medicine study found that THC reduced inflammation in animal models. Cannabinoids have also been shown to ease inflammation linked to inflammatory bowel disease and even inhibit certain cancer cells associated with brain inflammation.

How Much Delta 8 THC Should I Take for Pain Relief?

The amount of Delta 8 THC to take for pain relief varies based on individual tolerance, body weight, and the severity of pain. Starting with a low dose and gradually adjusting is generally the best approach, especially for new users. 

  • Begin with a Low Dose – Start with 5-10 mg of Delta 8 for beginners. This dose can show how your body reacts to Delta 8’s effects, especially for mild to moderate pain relief.
  • Adjust Gradually—If the initial dose is not effective, increase it by 5-10 mg over the course of a few days. Note how each dose impacts your pain levels and any side effects you experience.
  • Moderate to High Doses for Severe Pain – For those with more intense or chronic pain, a moderate dose (15-30 mg) may be more effective. However, those with a higher tolerance or who have used Delta 8 before may benefit from 30-50 mg. It’s wise to adjust slowly to avoid side effects.
  • Method of Consumption Matters – Delta 8 gummies or capsules typically take longer (30 minutes to 2 hours) to produce effects, but the relief lasts longer, which may benefit chronic pain. Vaping or tinctures provide faster relief but have shorter-lasting effects, making them useful for breakthrough pain or immediate relief.
  • Consult a Professional—If you are dealing with severe or chronic pain, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional. They can help tailor a dosage plan specific to your needs and ensure there are no interactions with any medications you may be taking.

Always start low, go slow, and pay close attention to how your body responds. Finding the optimal dose for your needs may take a few tries.

Can Delta 8 THC Replace Prescription Medications?

Delta 8 THC is increasingly popular for its potential therapeutic benefits, but it should not be considered a replacement for prescription medications without a doctor’s guidance. Although Delta 8 THC may help with issues like pain, anxiety, nausea, and sleep, it lacks the extensive clinical research and regulatory approval that supports prescription medications.

Prescription drugs are carefully formulated, extensively studied, and closely regulated to address specific medical conditions and symptoms. On the other hand, Delta 8 THC is a natural compound from hemp and cannabis, but research on its effects, appropriate dosages, and safety profile is limited. This means that for chronic or severe medical conditions, replacing prescription medications with Delta 8 THC could lead to inconsistent results, potential side effects, or even risks from untreated symptoms.

How Does Delta 8 THC Relieve Pain?

Delta 8 THC may help alleviate pain primarily through its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates pain, inflammation, mood, and other physiological processes. When Delta 8 THC binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors within this system, it can influence pain perception and potentially reduce discomfort. As a CB1 antagonist, Delta 8 THC may block the brain’s pain receptors, potentially helping manage pain without the strong psychoactive effects associated with Delta 9 THC.

Although there’s still much to learn, preliminary research is promising. For instance, studies on mice with corneal injuries found reduced pain and inflammation after treatment with Delta 8 THC.

Difference Between Delta 8 THC, Delta 9 THC, & CBD

Delta 8, Delta 9, and CBD are all cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant, but they vary significantly in their chemical properties, effects, and legal statuses.

  • Delta 8 THC is similar in structure to Delta 9 THC; however, Delta 8 is known to produce a milder high. It binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain like Delta 9 but with a slightly different bond on its molecular chain, leading to effects that users describe as more clear-headed, with less anxiety and paranoia. This makes Delta 8 appealing for those seeking a mild psychoactive experience without the intensity of Delta 9. Delta 8 is legal in many U.S. states due to its derivation from hemp and compliance with the 2018 Farm Bill, although legality varies.
  • Delta 9 THC is the most well-known cannabinoid and the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, responsible for the “high” feeling. It binds strongly to CB1 receptors in the brain, producing more intense psychoactive effects, euphoria, and sometimes heightened anxiety or paranoia in some users. Delta 9 is tightly regulated and is classified as a Schedule I substance under U.S. federal law. However, it’s legally available in states where recreational or medical cannabis is permitted.
  • CBD (Cannabidiol) is another prominent cannabinoid known for its non-psychoactive effects. Unlike Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC, CBD does not bind significantly to CB1 receptors and does not cause a high. It’s widely used for potential therapeutic benefits, such as reducing inflammation, anxiety, and seizures, and it’s more commonly found in health and wellness products. Because it doesn’t produce a psychoactive effect, CBD is widely accepted and legal in many places, including at the federal level in the U.S., as long as it’s derived from hemp with less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC.

Final Thoughts

While research on Delta 8 and pain relief is still evolving, early studies and user reports suggest promising potential. Delta 8’s ability to bind with CB1 receptors may help reduce pain perception and inflammation, making it a useful alternative for managing chronic pain, arthritis, nerve pain, and more. As a milder cannabinoid compared to Delta 9, it offers relief without the intense psychoactive effects, which makes it an appealing option for people seeking therapeutic benefits. However, it’s always important to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating Delta 8 into your pain management routine.

(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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