Can THC relieve stress? Research shows it all depends on the dose.
The legalization of the hemp plant allows us to enjoy its healing properties. But there are many nuances regarding dosing or choosing the method of consumption that works for you.
When it comes to using delta 9 for stress, the amount of THC you take plays a huge role in its effectiveness. With that in mind, we’ve crafted federally compliant delta 9 gummies formulated to offer a pure and potent but optimal dosage for stress relief.
If you are looking for something to help you relax at the end of each workday, you should give these gummies a try. Let’s look at how delta 9 helps with stress and if it’s right for you.
What is delta 9 THC
Delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as THC, is an active cannabis compound with medicinal properties. THC is known as the most prominent psychotropic cannabinoid responsible for the sensation of high associated with marijuana.
THC is also present in the flower of the hemp plant, but in no more than 0.3 percent, which is the legal threshold set by the Farm Bill of 2018. The hemp plant has over 100 chemical compounds, each with distinct properties.
Aside from cannabidiol (CBD), delta 9 is one of the most widely researched and used hemp compounds. Studies show a positive correlation between THC and pain relief, sleep, seizures, nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy, low appetite, and much more.
Can delta 9 THC help relieve stress
There’s no definitive answer on how THC works to relieve stress. It’s assumed that this cannabinoid affects the CB1 receptors located in the region of the brain responsible for regulating stress.
Studies show that this typically happens in brain regions (amygdala) strongly associated with fear and anxiety — that also contain high concentrations of CB1 receptors. These receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system that is thought to be an integral stress response regulator.
According to research, THC is the go-to drug for people looking to relax or relieve daily emotional stress or tension.
Few clinical studies have been performed on THC and stress. A recent one shows that under certain circumstances, like when used in low to moderate doses, delta 9 THC promotes significant stress-relieving effects.
What the research says
A randomized, placebo-controlled study investigated the influence of delta 9 THC on emotional responses caused by an acute psychosocial stressor (public speaking) in healthy young adults.
In two experimental sessions, researchers gave the healthy volunteers oral doses (capsule) of THC (7.5mg and 12.5mg) or placebo. They found that the lower dose of 7.5mg of THC significantly reduced self-reported distress, while 12.5mg increased the negative mood both before and during the task.
The higher dose (12.5mg) produced a small but significant increase in:
- Anxiety
- Negative mood
- Subjective distress
- Increased number of pauses during the public speaking portion of the test
Researchers concluded that THC’s effects on stress and negative mood are bi-directional. In low to moderate doses, it can promote relaxation and relief from tension. In higher doses, it can backfire and trigger anxiety and paranoia due to possible overstimulation of the CB1 receptor.
So, it’s essential to find an appropriate dose range to enjoy the stress-relieving properties of this cannabinoid.
The study also used THC as a single cannabinoid, which differs from using full spectrum hemp extracts. Research shows that cannabidiol (CBD), the second most popular active constituent, might blunt anxiety and counteract the effects of THC.
Meaning, CBD may protect against THC’s intoxicating properties, while THC may enhance the anxiety-relieving effects of CBD.
Terpenes, aromatic compounds present in whole-plant hemp extracts, also may play a role in the stress-relieving effects of whole-plant hemp. They naturally occur in all plant life and enhance the effectiveness of cannabinoids while possessing sedating and stress-relieving properties.
Therefore, a balanced product like full spectrum delta 9 THC gummies that contain the optional dose of delta 9 and cannabidiol (CBD) can be a better solution for stress than a THC-only product.
Best delta 9 gummies for stress
Mr. Hemp Flower presents you pure and potent whole-plant delta 9 THC gummies. These gummies are enriched with a balanced dose of 10mg delta 9 THC and 15mg cannabidiol (CBD).
A delicious bitesize treat, they unlock the benefits of the entourage effect and allow you to savor hemp in its natural state. Our gummies are available in two flavors: watermelon and blue raspberry.
In lower doses, THC is subtly stimulating and can provide comfort and help with stress. This dose is mild and provides relief during the day but also keeps you pretty active.
Aside from delta 9, these gummies also contain 7.8mg of delta 8 THC. Delta 8 is a mildly psychotropic cannabinoid known for its soothing, anxiety-relieving effects. Taking more than 10mg delta 9 might have the opposite effect and create alertness, anxiety, and paranoia.
Like every product released by Mr. Hemp Flower, our gummies are made from hemp sourced from the best farmers in the nation. They are crafted with all-natural ingredients and infused with a premium hemp-derived delta 9 extract.
If you’re wondering whether they are legal, the answer is yes. They are as legal as any full spectrum hemp product in your state. Despite containing 10mg delta 9, they are still within the 0.3 percent legal threshold and are federally compliant. If you want to know more about the legality of this product in your state, check our state-by-state legality guide.
What’s the ideal THC dose for stress relief?
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to proper cannabinoid dosing. The market offers countless combinations, so it all comes down to your personal preferences and how sensitive your body is to THC.
Things like metabolism, gender, age, time and method of consumption also play a role in determining the right dosage for you. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with the lowest dose (half a gummy), see how it makes you feel, and increase if necessary.
Experimenting with the dose is necessary because we don’t know the effects of delta 9 upon different situational distress. High THC doses are not discouraged among regular users. One study reported an increase in feelings of relaxation after oral THC (20mg) among daily users.
Potential side effects of delta 9 for stress
As mentioned, one of the side effects of THC can be increased anxiety and stress levels. This can happen because THC is a stimulant that’s generally not recommended for anxiety — at least not as a standalone product, but rather in combination with CBD.
High doses of THC may significantly increase stress levels and even cause paranoia. Other common side effects include:
- Dry mouth
- Increased appetite
- Changes in mood
- Changes in sleep
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Increased heart rate
You should be familiar with the potential side effects of THC, especially as a beginner. It’s been known that acute administration to a naïve subject (someone who’s never tried cannabis) activates stress-response systems and increases cortisol levels.
Delta 9 THC gummies for pain: do they work?
Delta 9 THC is one of the most well-researched cannabinoids. A small batch of human studies shows positive effects on pain and inflammation. This cannabinoid can offer significant relief from chronic pain when consumed in low to moderate doses.
Delta 9 THC gummies are the first true full spectrum hemp gummies containing the entire hemp plant profile and the optimal amount of delta 9, so you should definitely try them.
Be Sure to Check Out:
Delta-9 THC FAQ
Does THC help with stress?
Yes, THC can be effective for stress. Studies have found that the potential stress-relieving effects of this cannabinoid are correlated to the dosage.
What are the benefits of delta 9?
Delta 9 has many medicinal benefits and can help with pain, inflammation, seizures, nausea, vomiting, low appetite, and more.
Which cannabinoid is best for stress?
Some people prefer CBD and its anxiety-relieving effects, while others prefer delta 9 due to its therapeutic and mood-boosting properties.
Read our legal disclaimer HERE. While we try to stay as up to date as possible on all state laws, you should do your own due diligence and work with a legal professional to ensure you are operating legally in your state or territory at all times.
