Categories: Anxiety and Stress

CBD vs Delta 8 for Anxiety

CBD vs Delta 8 for Anxiety: Unveiling the Science Behind Cannabinoid Relief

These days, it seems like you can’t swing a salami in a health food store without hitting a product loaded with cannabinoids promising relief from just about everything! Intriguing, isn’t it?

Of particular interest is the increasing attention paid to cannabinoids like CBD and Delta 8 from a cannabis sativa plant for their potential to help with anxiety management and improving mental health.

While many people take CBD and Delta 8 THC for anxiety, a wide variety of quality and types exist, which explains why people report different experiences.

Overall, people typically use a combination of the two for anxiety relief, but finding the best dosage and formulation is critical.

In this awesome little piece of info-packed paradise, we’ll be unearthing the science behind these fascinating compounds and drawing head-to-head comparisons to help you navigate this growing field. Oh, and another interesting nugget? We’ll also be introducing a bit of a wild card into our discussion – the compound CBDA. Now, let’s get the ball rolling, shall we?

Article Highlight

  • Let’s start with CBD—aka your chill companion from the medical cannabis family. No wild trips here, but you might just feel a surge in your calm vibes.
  • Next up is Delta-8 THC, Delta-9 THC’s cool, relaxed cousin. Expect a gentle, feel-good buzz commonly sourced from medical marijuana. Remember, its anxiety-easing powers vary depending on the person, dosage and other cannabinoids present.
  • Picture this: CBD and Delta 8, the dynamic duo rocking the stage together, combining their strengths for an enhanced performance—the “entourage effect”. But before getting too excited, remember science is just catching up to figure out this rad collaboration’s full potential.
  • Lastly, say hello to CBDA, the natural parent compound of CBD with superior absorption. Just like CBD, it could be your new ally in managing those nerves—but hang tight, researchers are still figuring out CBDA’s role in the anxiety relief gig as well as how it can help manage common anxiety disorders, from generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, to social anxiety disorder.

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CBD for Anxiety: Finding Calm in Cannabidiol

You’ve surely noticed the CBD craze that’s been going around. Perhaps you’ve wondered, “What’s all the hype about?” Whether you’re new to the scene or a seasoned CBD enthusiast, let’s navigate the waters together!

The Basics of CBD

Let’s kick things off with the basics. CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a star on the rise in both cannabis and hemp plants. And no, you’re not getting ‘high’ with CBD. That’s THC’s job. CBD is the good-natured sibling – it’s non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t intoxicate you.

CBD and Anxiety Relief

CBD is in the spotlight when dealing with anxiety, and here’s why. This little compound works magic with your serotonin andocannabinoid receptors found in the brain. Remember, serotonin is our feel-good neurotransmitter. It helps take care of our sense of happiness.

So, how does CBD fit into all this? Simple. Once CBD gets cozy in our bodies, it starts doing its thing on these systems. What’s more interesting is that CBD doesn’t cling directly to the receptors, a flashy contrast to other cannabinoids that usually get you ‘high.’ Hence, CBD could help prop up serotonin and endocannabinoid levels making it the perfect wingman for those in pursuit of their calm vibe.

CBD’s Role in Managing Inflammation and Sleep

Don’t be fooled! CBD is not a one-hit-wonder. Not only can it work its charm on your brain, but it’s also got some fantastic influence on the rest of your body. Stuff like inflammation and snoozing? Yeah, CBD’s got it covered.

You know those days when the stress and anxiety levels go beyond the charts? Yeah, those days can really crank up your body’s inflammation. But don’t you worry! CBD might just swoop in like a superhero to save the day.

And hey, let’s not forget the sweet, sweet joy of a good night’s sleep. If you’re finding it hard to relax and drift off at night, CBD might just be the ticket. Imagine sliding into a peaceful sleep and waking up all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. Now that’s what I call a win-win situation!

Delta-8 THC for Anxiety: Balancing Relaxation and Euphoria

Have you ever heard about Delta-8 THC in your cannabis chats? If not, let me introduce you to this fascinating relative of the infamous Delta-9 THC.

Yes, it’s a member of the same cannabis family tree, but it marches to its beat.

Delta-8 THC’s Mild Psychoactive and Intoxicating Effects

The key difference between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC boils down to the intensity of the trip. Picture Delta-9 THC as the wild one, breaking into high-energy freestyle at a party, creating a potent, psychoactive environment that might fling you into another cosmos for a while.

Now, imagine Delta-8 THC as the smooth ballroom dancer gliding across the floor, providing a laid-back, mildly euphoric feeling that gently twirls you around without sending you off your feet.

However, let’s switch the groove and talk about safety for a minute. When you groove to the beats of Delta-8 THC, which, by the way, is obtained from hemp cannabis extracts, it’s crucial to be aware of the dose.

While Delta 8 THC products are less potent than Delta 9 THC, the dose makes all the difference.

  • A dose of 1mg to 5mg is usually low enough not to get high, but enough to feel the effects.
  • A 5mg to 10mg dose will get most new users a high similar to delta 9, so be careful of your dose in this range.
  • If you have seen doses over 10mg and up to 30mg, these will certainly get feeling too much to drive. Unless you are very experienced with delta 9, we dont recommend this range.

Overall, if your just chilling on the couch and watching a movie, a moderate dose will be fine.

Delta 8’s Impact on Anxiety

Dealing with Delta-8 THC in the anxiety department is kind of like navigating a maze—lots of twists and turns. It’s different from its chill sibling, CBD, which is pretty straight up. With Delta-8, experiences seem to jump all over the place.

I’ve heard some folks say that it’s their go-to for cooling down those anxious jitters, kind of like a soothing icepack for the mind. But then, there are others who wind up feeling like they’re stuck in a wind tunnel, hearts pounding like a drumline.

And if that wasn’t tricky enough, your dance with Delta-8 could be influenced by other stuff too, specifically how much you’re taking. These factors can totally flip the script and swing your experience from floating on cloud nine to teetering on a rollercoaster ride.

That’s why it’s super important to tread lightly and experiment with professional guidance (think of it as having a reliable buddy system).

Individualized Approach to Consumption

Given the unpredictable charm of Delta-8, your journey with it should involve careful monitoring of personal experiences, preferences, and effects. Adopt the mantra: ‘Start low, go slow.’ The aim is to gradually inch up your dose until you hit your ‘just right’ zone that delivers relief sans unwanted side effects.

Your favorite dose, strain, and consumption method – everyone’s got their unique Delta-8 cocktail recipe. This highlights the need for a tailor-made approach when including Delta-8 THC in your anxiety management arsenal.

Moreover, researchers and health officials, including our nation’s poison control centers, have expressed significant public health concerns for people shimmying with Delta-8 THC with particular regard to potentially harmful by-products. There have been cases reported to national and animal poison control centers due to unregulated products leading to serious health risks.

Don’t let this ruin your party though. Staying informed and cautious about what you’re twirling around with on the dance floor is the key.

Always ensure you know your dance partner; in this case, the Delta-8 THC product you’re using, especially if you’re dealing with a medical condition.

Check that the product has a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) that shows the amount of cannabinoids in the final form. You can find more on how to read a CoA with our CBD CoA guide.

CBD vs THC 8: Duo for Enhanced Anxiety Relief

You might have caught the whisperings around the “entourage effect” if you’re in the cannabis therapeutics loop. Think of it like this – if CBD and THC were a power duo, their combined concert could potentially outdo their solo sets.

This concept roots in the theory that these cannabis compounds can synthesize and perhaps amplify their individual effects, creating an enhanced performance together.

Enhancing CBDA-THC Anxiety Relief

As we’ve previously explored, CBD and THC have their solo gigs for helping control anxiety. However, the real showstopper might be their combined act. Studies hint that the CBD-THC partnership could potentially amplify anxiety relief performance. Together, they seem to hit a higher note, drawing from the potent therapeutic effects of both stars.

There are many different kinds of CBD oil that can be combined with delta 8, and we believe the best contain all the hemp cannabinoids in one product:

  • Full spectrum CBD oil: contains all the cannabinoids from the hemp flower, and is the optimal formulation.
  • Broad spectrum CBD oil: this oil contains CBD and other minor cannabinoids, but the delta 9 THC has been removed. In our experience, most of these products have very little minor cannabinoids due to the removal of THC.
  • CBD isolate: this is pure CBD in crystal form that is often used in many CBD products.
  • Natural Spectrum CBDA oil: this contains CBDA and all the other acidic cannabinoids found in the hemp flower, such as CBCA, CBGA, and THCA among others. A powerful alternative to full spectrum CBD oil.

The Promising but Uncertain Entourage Effect

Amidst the rising wave of anecdotal support for this entourage effect, it’s crucial to hit the pause button and approach cautiously. The backend research orchestra is still tuning its understanding of this complex duet. Yes, the initial studies are in tune with our hopes, but we still don’t know much about how the CBD-THC jam session works.

Remember, when you let these cannabinoid superstars perform in your wellness concert, it’s essential to start slow and be careful. After all, we’re dealing with an uncharted symphony whose effects are still a bit of a mystery.

 

CBDA: The Unsung Hero in Anxiety Management

We’ve been talking a lot about cannabinoids for anxiety management. Today, let’s shed some light on a less celebrated player: CBDA, short for Cannabidiolic Acid.

These emerging cannabis derived products been somewhat overshadowed by its siblings, CBD and THC. But guess what? It paved the way for CBD’s existence.

The Unique Properties of CBDA

Before CBD struts onto the scene, it’s CBDA that takes the stage. Yes, you got it! CBDA is the precursor to CBD in a transformation process known as decarboxylation, a fancy term to say it happens when cannabis meets heat.

That being said, CBDA isn’t just a stepping stone; it has unique properties. The kind of features that separate it from its siblings and potentially make it an important component in easing anxiety.

Understanding the Potential for Anxiety Relief

Let’s chat about CBDA. Think of it as a superhero with a special power—potentially helping out with anxiety management. Recent scientific folks have observed that CBDA seems to have a unique way of mingling with our serotonin and endocannabinoid system.

And in case you’ve missed the memo, serotonin is a big deal when it comes to anxiety disorders.

In fact, CBDA is between 500% to over 1000% better absorbed than CBD!

The cool part? Emerging research hints that CBDA could be better than CBD at harmonizing with our serotonin receptors. If true, that’s like having an extra tool in our belt to tackle anxiety symptoms and stress, all thanks to our cannabinoid buddies.

The Trio: CBDA, CBD, and THC

Now, when we think about cannabinoids working as a team, we’ve typically left CBDA out. But consider this: CBDA, CBD, and THC joining forces to outsmart anxiety. It’s like a harmonic trio, each bringing their unique flavor to the mix. The result? A potentially comprehensive way to address and maybe even ease anxiety issues.

Check our our CBDA and delta 8 vegan gummies for the highest quality and tested product on the market. The only product that has Natural Spectrum CBDA oil.

The Need for Further Investigation

Of course, as exciting as CBDA’s potential is, it’s important to remember it’s still the new kid in town. We’re just starting this scientific adventure, and there’s a lot of mountains yet to climb.

Rigorous research is required to fully understand how CBDA operates and how effective it could be in battling anxiety disorders. But hey, that sounds like a journey worth taking, don’t you think?

 

Conclusion

Wrapping it up, we’re like explorers discovering new territories in the world of cannabinoids for anxiety relief. Our discoveries, including superheroes like CBD, Delta-8 THC, and our new pal CBDA, each have their own magic, and together, their power can be amplified. But as with any quest, intelligence and caution make for great companions.

See your healthcare provider as your navigator—they can help tailor-make the best route for you. Keeping that conversation flowing is super important to manage any bumps in the road, ensuring your wellness journey stays on a smooth track.

At the end of the day, remember this—you’re in charge here, captain! Navigating the waters between traditional treatments and innovative new options can feel like uncharted territory. But armed with the right map—clear, professional advice—you can make smart calls about managing your anxiety with the potential of cannabinoids. Sounds like an adventure I’d sign up for!

 

Team Dos

Colin Reily PhD

Article scientifically and medically reviewed for accuracy. Colin Reily is a Professor of Medicine and scientific consultant.

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Colin Reily PhD

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