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Full Spectrum CBD vs Delta-8

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The cannabinoid world is ever-growing, and with that come many new products and ways to consume cannabinoids. Full-spectrum CBD and Delta-8 THC have become two of the most popular cannabinoids, thanks to their unique properties.

However, most cannabis enthusiasts can't tell the difference between the two. In fact, they are often used interchangeably, even by experienced cannabis users and experts. In this article, we will take a deeper look into the two cannabinoids and see how they differ from each other.

What is Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 THC (Δ8-THC) is a psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Just like Delta-9, the main psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana, Delta-8 can make you high. But what sets Delta-8 apart is that it’s only about half as potent as Delta-9. So while Delta-9 THC can make you feel “stoned,” Delta-8 will produce a mellow high that’s more clearheaded and less anxious.

This cannabinoid has its double-bonded atoms in the eighth position rather than the ninth position. This molecular difference may not seem like much, but it actually makes Delta-8 significantly more stable than Delta-9. This means that Delta-8 won’t degrade as quickly as Delta-9 when exposed to heat, light, or oxygen.

Delta-8 works by binding to the CB receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which are located throughout the body. These receptors are responsible for maintaining homeostasis, or balance, in the body. When Delta-8 binds to these receptors, it can help regulate mood, pain perception, appetite, and memory.

This cannabinoid has a high affinity for the CB2 receptors, which are mostly found in the peripheral nervous system. This is what researchers think gives Delta-8 its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.

What is Delta-8 Good For?

Below are some of the potential benefits of Delta 8 according to currently available research. Remember that cannabis research is still in its early stages, and much more research needs to be done before cannabis is approved as a treatment. You should consult with a doctor before attempting alternative treatment methods. But the research thus far suggests that cannabis shows promise in these areas.

Anxiety and Stress Reduction

Anxiety and stress are two of the most common mental health disorders in the United States. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, around 18% of adults in the U.S. suffer from anxiety disorders, and another 20% suffer from stress disorders.

Delta-8 has shown promising results in managing both anxiety and stress. One study showed that this cannabinoid may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. This is because Delta 8 may help in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that’s known to regulate mood and social behavior.

Another study found that Delta 8 may help to reduce stress by reducing the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, in the body. This means Delta-8 has the early potential to manage a variety of stress-related conditions, but much more research needs to be done to confirm this cannabinoid as a treatment.

Pain Relief

Delta-8 has shown promise as an analgesic. A study showed that this cannabinoid may help relieve pain by reducing inflammation. It may help in the production of cytokines, which are proteins that help to regulate the immune system.

This has the potential to reduce inflammation and pain perception. Another study found that THC may help relieve neuropathic pain. This is a type of chronic pain caused by damage to the nervous system.

Anti-inflammation

Research shows Delta 8 may have anti-inflammatory effects. This is because it targets the nociceptors, which are the receptors responsible for pain perception. A study done on rats showed that Delta 8 was able to reduce inflammation and pain caused by arthritis significantly.

Of course, animal studies don’t always translate into humans, so more research needs to be conducted in this area before Delta-8 THC can be considered an effective treatment.

Nausea

In some studies, Delta 8 has been shown to be an effective antiemetic. This means it may have the potential to help relieve nausea and vomiting caused by a variety of conditions, such as chemotherapy, multiple sclerosis, and Crohn’s disease.

Appetite Stimulation

Delta-8 may help stimulate appetite. It influences the ghrelin receptor, GH secretagogue receptor type 1a (GHS-R1a), to stimulate hunger. A study showed that Delta-8 may help increase food intake in rats.

Surprisingly, another study showed that rats given Delta-8 ate more than the others but did not gain more weight. Again, animal studies are not a 1:1 comparison with humans, but these early results have given promising reasons to continue research in this area.

What is Full-Spectrum CBD?

Full spectrum CBD is a type of CBD oil that contains all the other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids found in hemp. These compounds work together to produce what’s known as the “entourage effect,” which is believed to provide greater effects than CBD alone.

Full-spectrum CBD may contain up to 0.3% of Delta-9 THC, making it a "broad-spectrum" product. This is the legal limit for THC in hemp-derived products in the United States. Something worth noting is that full-spectrum CBD should not be confused with CBD isolate.

CBD isolate is a type of CBD that contains only CBD and no other cannabinoids or compounds. This makes it a “pure” CBD product. While CBD isolate offers a plethora of effects, a 2015 animal study showed that it is not as effective as full-spectrum CBD. This is likely due to the entourage effect (the combined effect of all the compounds in full-spectrum CBD).

The same study showed that a higher dose of CBD isolate was needed to produce the same effect as full-spectrum CBD. This means you would need to take more CBD isolate to experience the same effects as full-spectrum CBD.

Benefits of FULL-Spectrum CBD

Below are some potential effects of taking full-spectrum CBD. Although, as with Delta-8 THC, these effects are still being researched and, by and large, have not been approved as treatments. While some anecdotal evidence of their efficacy can be found and some doctors will recommend CBD, it is important to consult a medical professional before treating any illness.

Anxiety

Research shows that full-spectrum CBD may be effective at treating anxiety-related disorders such as PTSD, OCD, social anxiety disorder (SAD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and panic disorder. Still, more research needs to be conducted to confirm these initial findings.

Stress Reduction

Full-spectrum CBD has also been shown to help reduce stress levels in both animal and human studies. Stress hormones like cortisol can have negative effects on the body, including increased risk of weight gain, heart disease, and mental health issues. Full-spectrum CBD is believed to reduce stress hormones in the body, making it a promising potential aid for stress.

Pain Relief

Full spectrum CBD is also effective in treating pain-related conditions like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to alleviate pain by reducing inflammation. Therefore, you can buy the best CBD strains for pain to fight different types of pain.

Anti-inflammation

In a review of available studies, researchers found that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties, which may be beneficial in treating inflammatory conditions. Though it’s important to note that more research is needed.

Neuroprotection

This 2018 study shows that full-spectrum CBD may have neuroprotective effects, which may be beneficial in treating neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Again, these effects are still being researched, and anyone who has been diagnosed with these conditions should consult a doctor before attempting to treat them.

Appetite Suppression

Full-spectrum CBD may help suppress your appetite if you want to lose weight. A 2011 study showed that rats given full-spectrum CBD ate less than others. Of course, responses in rats are not always the same as in humans, and these effects may not manifest for everyone who tries CBD.

Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that is characterized by inflammation and sebum overproduction. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine showed that CBD could help reduce excess oil buildup, which leads researchers to believe it may one day be a treatment for acne.

Psoriasis and Skin Inflammation

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin. Skin inflammation is a common symptom of psoriasis. A study published in the PeerJ Life & Environment Journal showed that CBD could help reduce inflammation and improve the symptoms of psoriasis, making it a promising potential treatment in the future.

Main Differences of Delta-8 vs CBD

Psychoactivity

One of the main differences between Delta-8 and CBD is that the former is psychoactive while the latter is not. This means that Delta 8 can cause a feeling of being high, while CBD will not.

If you need to enjoy the benefits associated with cannabis while getting a clearheaded high that will leave you functional and productive, then the best Delta-8 products, such as Bubba Kush and Zombie Kush are the best options.

However, if you want to enjoy the potential benefits without the euphoric effects associated with THC, then CBD products such as the Live Resin CBD Tincture or Sour Hawaiian Haze Preroll are your best bet.

Chemical Structure

The chemical structure of Delta-8 is also different from that of CBD. Delta-8 contains a double bond in the eighth position on the chain, while CBD has a double bond in the sixth position. This difference in chemical structure is what gives these two compounds their different effects.

How They Work

CBD gummies and other CBD products work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a system of receptors and neurotransmitters that regulate various functions throughout the body, including pain, inflammation, mood, and appetite.

CBD works by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the ECS. This interaction helps regulate various body functions, including pain, inflammation, mood, and appetite. When you take Delta-8 products such as Abacus 2.0, they work by binding to the CB receptors in your endocannabinoid system, which are found throughout your body. These receptors play a role in maintaining homeostasis, or balance, in your body.

Is Delta 8 Stronger than Full-Spectrum CBD?

Yes, Delta-8 is stronger than full-spectrum CBD. This is because Delta 8 contains more THC than full-spectrum CBD. Both may contain the legally allowable 0.3% Delta-9 THC, but since Delta-8 is not a regulated THC, manufacturers can include as much as they want in their products.

The increased THC content in Delta-8 makes it more potent than Full Spectrum CBD, which means it can provide more powerful effects, including increased energy, focus, and euphoria. It also produces better pain relief, and this could explain why the best strains for Fibromyalgia are made with Delta-8.

Delta-8 Vs Full-Spectrum CBD Better For Anxiety

Both Delta-8 and full-spectrum CBD are believed to be effective at reducing anxiety. However, it's worth noting that Delta-8 is a potent cannabinoid and could increase anxiety in some people. For this reason, Delta-8 may not be the best option for people who are prone to anxiety or panic attacks.

In general, full-spectrum CBD is a better choice for people with anxiety because it contains other calming cannabinoids like CBN and CBDV that can help reduce anxiety. Even though some Delta-8 cannabinoids may have these additional anxiety-reducing cannabinoids, the increased THC content dismisses it as a better option. Talk to your doctor before using any cannabinoid product for anxiety.

Delta-8 THC vs Full-Spectrum CBD for Sleep

If you want to rest after a long day or ease anxiety before bedtime, you may be wondering which product will work best for you. Both Delta-8 THC and full-spectrum CBD can offer a sense of relaxation, but they have different effects.

CBD has been shown to improve sleep quality, while Delta-8 THC can potentially help you fall asleep and stay asleep. Due to its psychoactive properties, Delta-8 may help you relax before bedtime and reduce the number of times you wake up during the night.

The sedating effects of some Delta-8 strains can also be helpful for people with insomnia. As with any other condition, talking to your doctor is the best way to find out which cannabinoid product will help you sleep better. A professional will look at your specific situation and make a recommendation based on your needs.

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A woman hold a jar of Botany Farms CBD gummies for performance anxiety.
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