If you often find yourself with a pounding headache, nausea, and exhaustion the morning after one too many drinks, then you know how unpleasant hangovers can be. But lucky for you, CBD's intoxicating cousin Delta 8 THC has recently come onto the health scene as a potential way to ease some of those nasty symptoms associated with a hangover.
In this blog post, we'll explore what causes hangovers, if research suggests that Delta 8 may help relieve those effects in any way - and if so - how much to consume. So keep reading to see if this cannabinoid could help get you back on your feet faster after that wild night out!
Delta 8 is a naturally occurring compound found in cannabis plants, also known as Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8THC). It is a close relative of Delta 9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for its intoxicating effects. Delta 8 THC's chemical structure is similar to Delta 9 THC, except for a double bond present on its eighth carbon chain, rather than the ninth.
Delta 8 is a cannabinoid that is less potent than Delta 9 but still contains psychoactive properties. It binds to the same receptors in the body's endocannabinoid system as Delta 9 THC but produces a milder and more clear-headed high. Delta 8 is typically found in small amounts in cannabis plants, but can also be derived from hemp through extraction and conversion processes.
Delta 8 has various potential medicinal benefits, including pain relief, appetite stimulation, and anxiety reduction. Additionally, it may have neuroprotective properties that help prevent neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Furthermore, for people who experience anxiety or paranoia due to Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 can serve as an alternative.
Delta 8 binds to the CB1 receptors in the body's endocannabinoid system, primarily located in the brain and central nervous system. This binding leads to a series of cellular responses that affect the release of neurotransmitters, resulting in changes in mood, appetite, and pain perception. Delta 8 also interacts with CB2 receptors, primarily found in the peripheral immune system with potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects.
Due to its similar structure to Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 produces similar effects on the body, although to a much lesser degree. While Delta 9 binds strongly to both CB1 and CB2 receptors, Delta 8 may only weakly bind to CB1 receptors, resulting in a milder psychoactive effect. Delta 8 also has a slower onset and longer duration of effects compared to Delta 9 THC.
Although there is no guaranteed cure for a hangover, using delta 8 THC may alleviate certain symptoms and improve your overall feeling after drinking heavily. One possible advantage of delta-8 THC for a hangover is that it could enhance your cognitive function and mood.
Dennis Sanders from Burning Daily says Delta 8 THC has the potential to alleviate the common symptom of nausea during a hangover. It may also reduce dizziness, making it easier for you to eat and drink without feeling sick. Another benefit is that it might stimulate your appetite, aiding in faster recovery by supplying essential nutrients and nourishment.
There are currently no studies specifically examining the effects of delta 8 THC on hangovers, but research suggests that it has therapeutic benefits for various conditions. Delta 8 THC is known to have similar effects to delta 9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, but with milder effects. It may help with pain, anxiety, inflammation, and other symptoms, which could potentially be beneficial for hangover relief.
The timing of the effect of delta 8 THC may vary depending on the method of consumption. When inhaling delta 8 THC, effects can be felt within minutes, but when ingesting it, it may take up to an hour or more to feel the effects. Individuals should always consult with a health care professional before using any substance to treat medical conditions or symptoms, including hangovers.
It is important to consider the potential risks and side effects that may arise from its usage.
Using Delta 8 THC to treat hangovers can have risks, such as the likelihood of experiencing unwanted side effects. Even though Delta 8 THC is less potent than Delta 9 THC, it can still result in drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Moreover, despite being legal in most regions, Delta 8 THC may result in failing drug tests due to its similarity to Delta 9 THC.
Another risk to consider is possible drug interactions when using Delta 8 THC in conjunction with alcohol. As a cannabinoid, Delta 8 THC can interact with other substances, including alcohol. Mixing alcohol and Delta 8 could lead to increased sedation and impaired coordination, making it unsafe to drive or operate heavy machinery.
Furthermore, the long-term effects of using Delta 8 THC are not yet fully understood. Although researchers believe Delta 8 to be less potent and safer than Delta 9 THC, it may still have an impact on cognitive function and memory over time.
While Delta 8 THC may potentially be used as a hangover remedy, consumers should be aware of the potential risks and side effects. Users should also avoid consuming Delta 8 THC along with alcohol to prevent any possible interactions. As with any new supplement or medication, it is always best to speak with a medical professional before using.
If you’re looking for alternatives to Delta 8 to help ease the symptoms of a hangover, there are many natural options available. Hydration is essential; make sure you drink plenty of water during and after your drinking session. Additionally, choosing foods with a high water content can also help re-hydrate the body and replace essential minerals that were lost during alcohol consumption.
Eating a meal filled with complex carbohydrates may provide energy and electrolytes, while lighter snacks such as bananas or crackers can keep nausea at bay. Coconut water can help re-hydrate the body more quickly and contains several essential vitamins and minerals. Finally, getting enough sleep is imperative – it will not only physically allow your body to recover, but also emotionally re-stabilize you after consuming too much alcohol.