If you are prone to anxiety, you probably avoid THC products. But it doesn’t have to be that way. By adjusting the dose and choosing the right type of THC, you can enjoy potential anxiety relief. Delta 8 THC, a less potent THC isomer, can be a viable alternative to delta 9 THC for people dealing with anxiety.
While CBD is an excellent option for anxiety relief, it doesn’t necessarily work for everyone. So, if you are looking for a natural anxiety reliever with a kick, this phytocannabinoid might be right for you.
Last Update: October 22, 2024
Article Summary
- Delta 8 THC is a minor cannabinoid found in trace amounts in hemp. It has lower psychotropic potency than delta 9 THC.
- This cannabinoid is helpful for anxiety in the right dosage because it affects the endocannabinoid receptors in the brain.
- Users who are highly sensitive to THC should start with a microdose of 2 mg to 5 mg of delta 8 for anxiety.
- In high amounts, THC can exacerbate anxiety and cause paranoia and panic attacks.
- You can consume delta 8 daily, but this can lead to building up your tolerance. Taking regular T-breaks can help you avoid adverse effects and high doses.
- Hemp-derived delta 8 THC is legal under the farm bill and in most states.
- Regular consumption of d8 will likely show up on a drug test.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 THC is a type of cannabinoid naturally found in trace amounts in the hemp plant (about 0.01%). Similarly to cannabinol (CBN), delta 8 is delta 9 THC’s byproduct created when the hemp flower is exposed to oxygen.
Because the hemp plant doesn’t naturally produce this phytocannabinoid in large amounts, manufacturers use cannabinoids like CBD to create readily available products. Today’s market offers a variety of d8 THC edibles, vape concentrates, tinctures, oils, sprays, and more.
According to users, this cannabinoid will get you mildly intoxicated due to its lower psychotropic potency compared to delta 9. Delta 8 is about two-thirds less potent than delta 9, producing more of a body high that keeps the user relaxed but clear-headed.
Read more: Differences Between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC
Where to Buy Delta 8 THC for Anxiety?
Recognizing high-quality delta 8 THC products is the first step to safely consume this cannabinoid for anxiety. At Mr. Hemp Flower, you can find a line of premium delta 8 THC items.
As a reliable supplier of CBD-rich flower, we source our hemp directly from vetted U.S. growers and manufacture our products using organic ingredients. All of our products are tested by an independent lab and come with a Certificate of Analysis.
The hemp flower naturally produces this cannabinoid in trace amounts. Our flower is loaded with cannabinoids and terpenes and makes an excellent combination with our premium oil. Our customers love our delta 8 CBD flower, which has proved effective for sleep and kicking anxiety to the curb.
Does Delta 8 Help Anxiety?
Many people avoid using THC for anxiety because, over time, this cannabinoid makes them more anxious. However, that doesn’t have to be the case as THC can be used effectively to manage anxiety.
It’s all about finding the right dosage for your body and avoiding THC overdose, while experiencing the beneficial effects of this compound.
You might be more sensitive to THC exposure compared to other people. However, you could still give delta 8 THC a try for managing anxiety. To approach it properly, adjust the dose. According to studies, THC appears to decrease anxiety at lower doses and increase anxiety at higher doses.
So, start with the lowest dose possible and increase the dose until you find the “optimal spot.” The optimal spot is the dose that alleviates your anxiety, but doesn’t cause adverse effects like anxiety and paranoia.
The best way to find your ideal dose is to consume products that obtain 1 to 2 mg of THC per serving. If you start to build tolerance to it, take a break or increase the dose to 5 mg and see how you’ll react.
How Does it Work for Anxiety?
Delta 8 THC produces its anxiety-relieving effects in the body by activating the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The endocannabinoid system is a cell-signaling system made up of cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes.
The main role of the ECS is to balance out the inner workings of the body, or maintain homeostasis. The ECS regulates functions like:
- pain
- inflammation
- mood
- sleep
- learning and memory
- digestion
- appetite
Studies show that the endocannabinoid system is centrally involved in regulating anxiety and fear responses.
To mediate anxiety, d8 THC binds to one of the main endocannabinoid receptors, the CB1 receptor. One study singled out the CB1 receptor as a major player in anxiety. The study found that when the CB1 receptor is blocked, the subject shows increased anxiety.
This cannabinoid is an agonist to the CB1 receptor — or a compound that initiates a physiological response when combined with a receptor. This means that by binding to the CB1 receptor, delta 8 activates the anti-anxiety and stress-relieving effects in the body.
What Does the Research Say?
This phytocannabinoid displays anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) qualities similar to delta 9 THC. There’s little clinical research investigating delta 8 THC’s anxiety-reducing potential. One thing’s for sure: most users agree that it causes a calm, focused high and makes them “worry-free.”
Anecdotal evidence shows that delta 8 THC doesn’t feature the anxiety or paranoia that delta 9 THC is known for. This may be connected to the cannabinoid’s binding affinity to the CB1 receptor, which is three-fold lower compared to delta 9 THC.
A 1995 study published in Life Sciences performed on children undergoing chemotherapy found that kids don’t show signs of psychoactive effects after taking delta 8 THC. Aside from slight irritability in some of the kids, its consumption didn’t cause any anxiety, antsiness, or other adverse side effects.
How to Use Delta 8 THC for Anxiety
Delta 8 THC products come in different forms, allowing you to experiment with several methods of consumption before finding what suits you the best. This cannabinoid comes in the form of:
- Vape concentrates
- Oils and tinctures
- Edibles (gel capsules)
- Hemp flower pre-rolls enriched with d8 THC oil and terpenes
- CBD-rich hemp flower sprayed with d8 THC oil
If you prefer vaping and smoking over other methods of consumption, take one puff at a time and notice how it makes you feel before going in for another one.
The body absorbs delta 8 THC faster through inhalation than other forms. Microdosing helps you determine the number of hits you need to take to feel the calming effects without any panic. You should also consider taking your delta 8 after having a meal to avoid a more intense reaction.
Purity of Product
Another thing to consider when dosing delta 8 THC for anxiety is the purity of the product. That said, check for total THC content and use products that come with a Certificate of Analysis.
You also need to be certain about the THC levels in the products. At Mr. Hemp Flower, we are fully transparent about our products’ origin, and we provide labs with each item.
Getting the correct dosage will take some trial and error, especially if it’s your first time using it for anxiety. But, as the anxiety-relieving effects of this cannabinoid start to kick in, feel free to increase your dose and enjoy your worry-free moments.
What Mg of THC is Best for Anxiety?
While it depends on the person, anything from 2 mg to 2.5 mg of delta 8 should effectively relieve anxiety. You can increase the dose up to 7 mg, but be careful because higher doses may trigger anxiety.
Delta 8 THC Dosage Chart for Anxiety
To calculate a “microdose” of delta 8 for anxiety or the minimal dose possible that will produce desirable effects, you need to consider your sensitivity to this compound.
If you are highly sensitive, calculate your ideal dosage based on this formula:
(0.025) x (your body weight in lbs.)
If you are not that sensitive, calculate the ideal dosage for anxiety based on this formula:
(0.05) x (your body weight in lbs.)
These two formulas allow you to find a low-strength dosage that you can work with to manage your anxiety symptoms. You can also base the dosage on this chart, although sensitivity to d8 is not necessarily related to your weight.
| Body Weight (lbs) | Low Sensitivity Dose (mg) | High Sensitivity Dose (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| 80 lbs | 4 mg | 2 mg |
| 100 lbs | 5 mg | 2.5 mg |
| 120 lbs | 6 mg | 3 mg |
| 140 lbs | 7 mg | 3.5 mg |
| 160 lbs | 8 mg | 4 mg |
| 180 lbs | 9 mg | 4.5 mg |
| 200 lbs | 10 mg | 5 mg |
| 220 lbs | 11 mg | 5.5 mg |
| 240 lbs | 12 mg | 6 mg |
People who are not that sensitive to THC should start with a low-strength dosage based on their body weight. If you are really sensitive to THC, stick to the high-sensitivity dosage recommendations.
What Delta 8 Strain is Best for Anxiety?
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing the right delta 8 strain for anxiety.
Consuming delta 8 through hemp flower is ideal for those who want to take small amounts of this cannabinoid throughout the day. This consumption method is fast-acting (works in 5 to 10 minutes) and delivers cannabinoids directly into your lungs (high bioavailability).
You’ll need to do some experimenting with different strains to find the right flower for you. Here are our top three recommendations of d8 flower for anxiety to get you started.
Northern Lights
Kicking off our list with Northern Lights delta 8 strain that offers an unmatched relaxing effect on the body. This hemp flower has a sweet flavor when smoked and is excellent for improving comfort and mood.
It’s an indica-dominant hybrid with high CBD levels (13%) and average delta 8 levels (10%). This means that a 1-gram joint rolled with this flower contains 100 mg d8.
It’s difficult to accurately dose hemp flower, so the best approach is to look for d8 flower with a maximum of 10% delta 8 THC. Regarding consumption, take a short puff each day and don’t go for another pull until you notice how the first one makes you feel.
Frosted Lime
The Frosted Lime delta 8 flower embodies external beauty and internal qualities. Its lime green, light, fluffy buds have a beautiful structure and offer great smoke. This hemp flower is sprayed with 53 mg/g pure d8 distillate, which makes it excellent for relaxation in the evening and nighttime.
A one-gram pre-roll contains 50 mg of delta 8 THC, which is a high dose for anxiety, so it’s best to avoid smoking all of it in one go. The best approach is to take one puff dayily and see how it makes you feel because half a pre-roll (25 mg) is also considered a high dose.
Crunch Berries
Crunch Berries is another indica-dominant hybrid with 10% delta 8 THC and 13% CBD that’s perfect for evening or nighttime relief. This flower has a sweet-tart, berry flavor, and sedative effects that make it most suitable for the evening or nighttime.
If you enjoy fruity hemp flower strains that provide long-lasting body comfort and anxiety relief, this strain is ideal for you. It offers amazing flavors and mood-boosting properties.
Is Delta 8 or Delta 9 Better for Anxiety?
There’s no specific research that compares the beneficial or negative effects of delta 8 and delta 9 for anxiety.
Anecdotal evidence shows that people avoid using delta 9 THC for anxiety because it makes them more anxious or causes panic attacks. This typically happens when the person takes a higher dose than they can handle, so they experience a THC overdose. In some cases, adjusting the dose helps.
As an alternative, many people go for delta 8 for anxiety. There’s mixed anecdotal evidence regarding the use of delta 8 for anxiety, but most of it is positive.
Delta 8 THC is less potent and more mellow than delta 9, so at the right dose, users tend to experience only the positive effects it has to offer.
Safety And Side Effects
The effects of delta 8 THC on anxiety need further exploration. Studies performed on humans show that this cannabinoid has a generally safe profile. One study found that delta 8 THC increases heart rate in humans and slows heart rate in animals.
Another study found that delta 8 THC increased blood pressure in animals. It’s also important to note that its side effects may be correlated with the dosage. Like with any other cannabinoid (including CBD), taking a large dose may exacerbate your anxiety symptoms.
In fact, studies show that high doses of compounds that stimulate the CB1 receptor may potentiate stress and anxiety-like responses.
Last but not least, anecdotal evidence shows that delta 8 produces favorable effects on anxiety — calming the body and mind without significant adverse side effects. Dealing with anxiety or stress on the regular may wreak havoc on your body. Delta 8 THC is here to help you wind down and relax your mind.
Is Delta 8 Safe for Daily Use for Anxiety?
The answer is yes, you can use delta 8 daily for anxiety. But, there are some things you need to keep in mind.
If you’re dealing with anxiety, you probably want to keep symptoms at bay on a daily basis. While this is possible, there are some things you need to be aware of, including:
Tolerance
Regular use of any d8 product will eventually lead to increased tolerance, requiring a higher dose to achieve the same effect. When it comes to anxiety relief, higher doses may backfire. So the best approach to avoid building tolerance is to take regular tolerance breaks.
A tolerance break is abstaining from cannabis for a certain period of time to reset your receptors. It’s a helpful method to maintain regular consumption of cannabis for medical, wellness, or recreational purposes.
So, if you want to keep a consistent d8 routine for anxiety, incorporate a 24-hour T-break every week. You can also do a 48-hour T-break when you notice that your body doesn’t react to d8 the same way as before. The 48-hour break is accepted as a good timeframe because, according to research, it’s enough time for the endocannabinoid receptors to start resetting.
During your T-break, abstain from all THC products and restart your dosing at about 50% of what was previously effective for you.
Side Effects
Regular consumption of d8 may bring some mild side effects as the compound builds up in the body. If you notice any of the following adverse effects, discontinue your d8 use or switch to a different product:
- Anxiety
- Increased heart rate
- Confusion
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
Does Delta 8 Cause Panic Attacks?
One study showed that, in high doses, THC (delta 9) may cause panic attacks in some people.
The same can certainly be true with delta 8 THC in high doses. When using low doses that increase gradually, it’s very unlikely to experience a panic attack from pure d8, unless the product has been laced with some other substances.
Will Delta 8 Show up on a Drug Test?
Yes, you will most likely fail a drug test after using d8 products.
THC’s metabolites, regardless if they’re coming from d9 or d8 can be recognized by a standard drug test. The result depends on the frequency of consumption and the type of test you’re using.
But, if you’re a regular user, you will likely pop positive even a few weeks after last use because the body stores THC in its fat cells. If you want to read more about delta 8 and drug testing, click here.
Legality of Delta 8 for Anxiety
Although legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived delta 8 THC is not an FDA-approved medication or substance for anxiety.
If you want to self-medicate, you can buy hemp-derived delta 8 THC legally in most states. You can also talk to a medical professional and purchase d8 products under the state’s medical marijuana products.
A dozen states have regulated or banned d8 products, so always check the laws in your state before purchasing. If you want to read more about the legal status of hemp delta 8 THC in your state, click here.
Final Thoughts
You can use hemp delta 8 THC for anxiety, even daily.
This cannabinoid has potential anti-anxiety effects at the right dosage. The best approach is to start with a microdose of 2 mg to 5 mg, depending on your body weight and general sensitivity. In high doses, this cannabinoid can exacerbate anxiety, so it’s best to keep the dosage on the lower side.
FAQ
What is the difference between delta 8 and delta 9?
Delta-8 is less psychotropic than delta-9 THC, getting the user mildly high without the feelings of panic and paranoia caused by delta-9.
Does delta-8 help with anxiety?
According to the National Cancer Institute, delta-8 THC possesses anxiolytic properties, which means it can relieve anxiety.
What are the benefits of Delta 8?
Delta-8 THC helps with anxiety, relieves pain, stimulates appetite, prevents nausea and vomiting, and acts as a neuroprotectant.
Is Delta 8 legal?
Delta-8-THC that’s naturally occurring in the hemp is legal, while synthetically made delta-8 THC remains illegal.
How long does Delta 8 stay in your system?
In urine, THC’s byproducts can be detected from a few days to a few weeks.