Using Delta-8 THC for Anxiety: Benefits, Research & How to Use

Is using Delta-8 for anxiety better than using CBD or THC? 

People are making a subtle shift from CBD (and even Delta-9) to Delta-8 THC — and we’re here for it. Delta-eight is less intoxicating than traditional Delta-9 THC and is more potent than cannabidiol (CBD).

While Delta-9 THC is quite effective for medicinal uses, it’s also more psychotropic than Delta-8 — aka, it can get you really stoned. Every user knows that using Delta-9 THC for anxiety is not the best idea. This THC compound almost always produces anxiety and can even trigger paranoia and hallucinations. 

But, things are different with Delta-8. Anecdotal and scientific evidence shows that Delta-eight gives anxiety-relieving effects without a drowsy, heavy high.    

Considering the differences between these three incredibly unique cannabinoids, you might be wondering:

Where does Delta-8 fit in the realm of hemp compounds that help with anxiety? 

Does it really have any therapeutic value? 

Let’s answer all your questions.

What is Delta-8 THC? 

The hemp plant is home to over 100 cannabinoids. Up until recently, the most widespread ones were CBD and Delta-9 THC. Since making its debut over a year ago, Delta-8 THC has become the key player in the hemp industry. 

While cannabidiol (CBD) can occur in the hemp plant at high concentrations (up to 25%), Delta-8 takes up only a tiny percentage (less than 0.1%) of the plant’s cannabinoid profile. This means that Delta-eight is a minor cannabinoid found in trace amounts in different hemp strains. Known for its nickname “weed light,” this molecule exhibits mildly sedative and mellow intoxication.

In its essence, Delta-8 is another form of THC and an isomer of Delta-9. These two molecules are very similar but differ by the placement of a double bond. In D-9, the double bond is located on the ninth carbon chain, while in D-8, in the eighth carbon chain. When cannabis ages over a period of time, D-9 degrades into D-8.  

Both compounds bind to the CB1 receptor found in the brain and nervous system. When it comes to similarities, both THC compounds can help with pain relief and appetite. But because of their slightly different structure, they exhibit different effects. That said, the main difference is in the intensity of intoxication they display.  

Does Delta-8 THC Work for Anxiety?

If you experience anxiety, you probably avoid cannabis products, especially potent THC concentrates. That’s because THC products of high potency can trigger or worsen anxiety. So, most people with anxiety who use cannabis have a very particular routine that’s based on microdosing, using certain hemp strains, or just cannabidiol (CBD). 

Considering Delta-8 THC is a tetrahydrocannabinol, you might be wondering how it can help with anxiety?

For now, there’s not a definitive answer to whether this compound helps combat anxiety. Anecdotal reports show a potential strong association between anxiety relief and Delta-8 use. The main thing people testify about once they try this cannabinoid is that it doesn’t get them as anxious as Delta-9. In addition, they report feeling relaxed, mellow, and much, much less anxious. 

Some prescribe these effects to the fact that Delta-8 is twice less potent than Delta-9, but it seems there’s more to this compound than that. Namely, its effects are generally described as less “heady” and more body-centric. The clear-headed “body high” caused by Delta-8 is completely opposite to Delta 9’s “head high.”

Also, certain Delta-8 products, like our Crazy8s Gummies, are designed to promote rest and relaxation. Therefore, this compound that helps you quell into a peaceful state may be helpful for easing the tension caused by social anxiety. 

Make no mistake — if you take twice as much Delta-eight as a single dose of Delta-nine THC, you can achieve more or less the same level of high. If you take too much D-8, you’ll likely awaken and exacerbate your anxiety. 

However, Delta-9 is known to primarily activate with the CB1 brain receptor that causes a high. Delta-8 is different in that matter because it’s thought to interact with the endocannabinoid system, its CB1 receptors in the brain and CB2 receptors in the immune system. Therefore, the way this cannabinoid impacts you may have more to do with the product you use and its dosage.

What about CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD), on the other hand, is chemically different from D-8 THC. This compound doesn’t get you high or nervous, so you can take as much as you want without triggering your anxiety. The main issue with it is low potency. Over time, you might feel you need something a bit stronger to feel relieved.

Why not mix them and enjoy better and faster relief? 

The anxiety-relieving effects of D-8 can be especially accentuated when the product contains a high percentage of cannabidiol (CBD). So, if Delta-8 alone is not enough to combat anxiety, check out our one-gram Crazy8s pre-rolls. They are made with high-quality CBD flower rich in terpenes and secondary cannabinoids that can help you eliminate intrusive thoughts. 

Hemp’s cannabinoids and terpenes work together in synergy. When present in the same product, compounds like CBD and THC balance (and terpenes) each other out to provide the best outcome. This process is known as the entourage effect, which is a theory that supports the use of full spectrum and broad spectrum hemp products over single cannabinoid isolates. 

Research shows that, in general, full spectrum products that contain some level of THC tend to be the most effective. When talking specifically about mood and anxiety disorders, a recent study revealed that cannabis-derived compounds open the option of avoiding the adverse effects of common medication used to treat mood disorders. And this can be particularly important for patients who don’t respond to conventional treatment. 

Research on Delta-8 for Anxiety

The majority of studies on cannabis are centered around Delta-9 THC and its therapeutic effects. Studies performed on D-8 THC show that these two cannabinoids are similar, with a few key differences. These differences are best seen in a study conducted by the leader in cannabis research — Israeli scientist Dr. Raphael Mechoulam. 

A study performed on pediatric cancer patients revealed that Delta-8 was 100% effective in combating nausea and vomiting — without getting the patients “high.” The researchers noted that the children tolerated high doses of this substance without any drawbacks like anxiety and paranoia. 

Though we don’t have too many studies on the effects of Delta-8 on anxiety, the National Cancer Institute recognized this compound as “anxiolytic.” This means that it possesses anti-anxiety properties. 

Benefits of Using Delta-8 for Anxiety

In a nutshell, here are the benefits of using Delta-8 THC for anxiety: 

Keeps you focused

If you’ve tried Delta-9 for anxiety, you know it triggers you to lose your edge. Though it has many health benefits, it makes you feel foggy, lethargic, and even exhausted. Well, D-8 is different. Due to a slight difference in chemical structure and affinity towards the CB2 receptors, Delta-8 is not only less psychotropic, but it gives a “body high” that makes you productive and motivated without losing focus. 

Less intense side effect

Traditional THC use causes a wide range of side effects like paranoia, nausea, anxiety, and rapid heartbeat. Though D-8 triggers euphoria, it doesn’t exhibit these side effects. Thus it helps relieve anxiety and other mental disorders without significant adverse effects. So far, users report feeling some drowsiness, numbness, slowed heart rate, confusion, and low blood pressure after taking Delta-8.  

It’s safe

We need more research on Delta-8 for anxiety, and there’s a lot that can be said about the negative impact of general anxiety medication on the person’s body and mind. So far, anecdotal evidence has shown that this cannabinoid is generally safe to consume. The biggest threat, really, comes from untested and unreliable hemp-derived Delta-eight products. 

Helps with insomnia

In the past, people dealing with insomnia have used cannabis to doze out. If you’re dealing with anxiety-related insomnia, try it out! Because it’s a mellow, soothing version of THC, Delta-8 has recently become the most sought-after version for sleep and alleviating the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Increased productivity

Due to its mildly intoxicating effects, one Delta-8 gummy, capsule, or drop of oil can increase your productivity. This can be hard to achieve with Delta-9 because it can quickly get you high and unfocused. So, if you’re looking for a product that will improve your focus without getting you too intoxicated, this cannabinoid is perfect. Please avoid driving or similar activities after consumption. 

How to Use Delta-8 for Anxiety

Let’s look at a few steps to help you get the most out of delta-8 for anxiety. 

1. Ease into it

Regardless if you’re a new or a seasoned user, ease your way in. Every individual responds differently to cannabinoid products, so take your time to figure out which product works best, and play around with dosing and dosing frequency.

You can start with our 10mg Crazy8s Gummies, which are tasty and effective and allow you to take your medicine when on the go. If you are a smoker, consider the Delta-8 THC Frosted Lime CBD Flower, that’s the perfect mix of cannabinoids and terpenes. This strain oozes a rich herbal and piney aroma and fruity and earthy flavor.                 

1. Choose the right product

We can talk about how to choose the right Delta-8 product all day long, thanks to the surge of brands that have infested the hemp space with extremely low-quality and untested products. 

And, let’s be real: hemp products are expensive, but that doesn’t mean you should settle for low-quality items. You have the right to know what goes into your body, so the key thing to look for when buying your product is a detailed, up-to-date, genuine lab report. 

At Crazy8s, we are in this game for the long run. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality products at a competitive price point. 

1. Find the right dose (and dosing time) for you

To get the best results for anxiety, follow the rule: start low and increase the dose gradually. Start with the smallest dose possible! The general consensus is that the lowest dose is 5mg-10mg of Delta-eight per use. Use it before sleep to first see how it makes you feel because you should also wait for about two hours to feel the effects. 

If you use flower or vapes, take 1-3 puffs and wait until it kicks in for 15-30 minutes. Once you get used to it and see which dose works for you, try using it during different times of the day.

1. Get comfortable

When you’ve decided to take Delta-8 for anxiety, make sure you set yourself up for success. Create a comfortable environment and block time so you have no responsibilities that can get in the way. This allows you to track your body’s response to the substance and whether it makes you more anxious or keeps the anxiety away. 

To be safe, make sure you check in with your physician or therapist and get their approval — especially if you’re already taking anxiety meds. 

Conclusion

Until Delta-8 THC appeared on the market, THC was not considered the go-to for anxiety relief. Delta-eight THC shows potential in the treatment of anxiety. The effects of this compound are unique to each person who tries it. So, to find out how it’ll work for you, you have to try it yourself. In this developing market, it’s important to find the right product that will provide that safe and genuine healing experience.