Delta 8 is a strain of marijuana that is being touted as a pain reliever and a way to help people in addiction treatment. We will unpack those ideas here and give some context to the issue’s complexity.
While some hail it as a promising tool, we delve into its addictive nature and the current lack of robust scientific evidence supporting its use. Hopefully, we can come up with a better understanding of how it might be useful in the future and how getting to the root of psychological issues is still the best route to recovery.
What Is Delta 8?
It is completely understandable if you are not yet versed in the complex world of marijuana science. Not many are. But in this world, we have the term “delta.” It refers to the different types of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the compound that gets you high. (A compound is a chemical, basically.)
The most well-known THC type is Delta 9. It’s the reason people use marijuana in the first place. As the primary psychoactive component in marijuana, it gets you high.
Alongside Delta 9 is Delta 8, but at a much lower dosage. It occurs naturally in marijuana, but it’s not as prevalent. It also offers different effects. It has to be extracted for someone to get the benefits without getting the Delta 9 effects (the “high”).
Is Delta-8 Synthetic?
Yes. You can only buy Delta 8, made in a lab with CBD oil from hemp plants. This requires several chemicals and is also more potent than natural Delta 8. It is also unregulated, so there is no safety net for how it is made or the harmful chemicals that might be present in the process.
Understanding Delta 8
- Psychoactive Effects: It will alter your state of mind. Delta-8 is sometimes referred to as “diet weed” or “weed-lite” because it’s believed to have weaker psychoactive effects than delta-9. However, there is not enough research to verify this.
- Legality: It’s a bit of a legal gray area. Delta 9 is legal in some places and for medical reasons in others, but it must be heavily regulated. Delta 8 does not have the same system of regulations. Because of some loopholes in local laws, young people often have more access to this unregulated drug.
How is it used?
Vaping
Edibles: Gummies, chocolates, and other edible products infused with Delta 8 offer a tasty and discreet consumption method.
Tinctures: Liquid extracts that can be placed under the tongue or added to food and drinks for a controlled dosage.
Topicals: Creams, balms, and lotions infused with Delta 8 can be applied directly to the skin for localized relief.
Smoking: Delta 8 flower or pre-rolls can be smoked similarly to traditional cannabis products.
Sublingual Strips: Thin strips that dissolve under the tongue for quick absorption.
The Dangers of Marijuana Addiction
There is still an elephant in this room. While some of the benefits of Delta 8 might prove helpful after studies and research, marijuana, despite its many touted benefits, is addictive. And yes, that includes Delta 8.
Marijuana and Delta 8 Addiction Facts:
- Dependency: Regular use of marijuana creates tolerance, and tolerance typically leads to dependency. At that point, your body needs the chemicals in marijuana in order to function normally.
- Tolerance: Related to dependency is tolerance. Over time, you will need more substance to get the same effects. This increases the amount you will use it. And this is the slippery slope to addiction.
- Withdrawal: Stopping use can lead to withdrawal symptoms and could require a marijuana rehab to help you break the addiction.
To Those Battling Addiction
If you’re struggling with addiction to marijuana or any other substance, know that you are not alone. The path to recovery is winding and often steep, but every step forward is a victory.
Don’t let the allure of unproven treatments like Delta 8 distract you from the tried-and-true methods that have helped countless individuals reclaim their lives.
If you or a loved one are navigating the path of addiction recovery, EagleCrest Recovery in Benton County, Arkansas, is here to support you every step of the way. Our dedicated team understands the complexities of addiction and is ready to help you explore all available options, including emerging treatments like Delta 8. Don’t wait—reach out to us today at 844-439-7627. We can find the right path to a healthier, happier future. Your journey to recovery starts now.
