Is Choosing Delta 8 for Seniors a better option?

We’re seeing a growing market for delta-8 THC, which is yet another cannabinoid from the hemp plant that’s being studied for its unique effects on the body. We know that CBD has a lot to offer to those dealing with a wide range of complaints, whether it be arthritis or poor memory, which is why it’s becoming a widely used natural option for seniors in particular. But what about delta-8? Is delta 8 for seniors like CBD or not?

Why are Senior Citizens Starting to Explore Hemp?

The hemp plant has been federally legal since the 2018 Farm Bill, which has allowed us to explore its unique properties without fear of legal repercussions. Hemp is best known for CBD, its main cannabinoid, which is the most prominent compound in the plant’s chemical composition. Its popularity, which resulted from its sudden change in legal status, has allowed medical researchers to explore its many properties, including ones that are specific to seniors, including potential for use in treating dementia and chronic pain caused by inflammation.

Seniors typically feel comfortable using cannabidiol because of its gentle and non-psychoactive nature. In fact, more medical professionals are recommending CBD to seniors due to how easy it is to take and how rare it is to produce side effects.

Delta 8’s Properties

Of course, delta-8 is best known for being psychoactive, unlike CBD. When delta-8 is isolated and concentrated, it produces a high. But this high is milder than the one from D9, with people saying it’s about 70% as strong. Therefore, taking a dose of delta-8 should not make you feel as high as you would if you took the same dose of delta-9. Many people say that while they feel calming and euphoric effects from delta-8, their mind remains clear enough to concentrate on specific tasks and stay present in the moment.

Also, delta-8 may have unique properties that are useful to our well-being. It is very new, so research on it is still limited and underway. However, the studies we do have indicated specific properties that could undoubtedly be applied to the unique needs of seniors.

• Might play a role in improving appetite, which many seniors struggle with and can lead to nutritional deficiencies.
• May offer neuroprotective properties which can play a role in combating dementia and other effects of cognitive decline.
• Likely has pain-fighting capabilities.

Delta-8, unlike CBD, binds twice with cannabinoid receptors – specifically, the CB1 receptors in the nervous system. This could indicate more potent effects that are felt more noticeably.

Is Delta-8 Safe for Seniors? 

There’s no reason to believe otherwise. Delta-8’s psychoactive properties don’t become dangerous once a person reaches a certain age. Of course, seniors may be less likely to try a psychoactive substance, especially since, for the majority of their lives, they have been told that cannabis is illegal and worthy of criminal punishment.

But, as delta-8 continues to be increasingly studied, we may see the same thing that we’re seeing with CBD presently, which is a push from the medical community to encourage patients to try it. Delta-8 is a natural product, and many seniors may desire this because of its holistic nature.

What Seniors Should Know Before Taking Delta-8

If you’re a senior who wishes to try D8 THC, here are the things you should know.

Be Mindful of any Underlying Conditions

If you have any underlying conditions, make sure to let a doctor know before you start taking delta-8. There is not enough research about delta-8 to show how it may interact with those with specific medical conditions.

Medications May Make a Difference

If you are a senior who is taking medications, it’s very important that you speak to your doctor about the potential for an interaction. As of now, there is no concrete study showing how delta-8 THC specifically may interfere with certain drugs, but your doctor can provide you with medical advice based on their knowledge.

Starting Slow

The key to a successful delta-8 experience is starting slow, regardless of age. If you are not used to the feeling of THC in the body, you’ll want to go with a very small dose the first time to see what it’s like. Because delta-8 is psychoactive, you can expect to feel high. Tolerance to THC does seem to increase gradually with regular usage.

Being Consistent

We have enough experience with cannabinoids to know that they seem the most effective when taken consistently, and there is no reason to believe that delta-8 behaves any differently. Taking delta-8 daily may improve its overall effectiveness as it accumulates in the endocannabinoid system so that it may be used as efficiently as possible.

Maintaining Dialog with a Doctor

As you maintain a delta-8 routine, make sure to communicate with your doctor regularly, especially if you notice any changes in your symptoms or side effects or desire to change your routine in terms of the dosage, formula, or milligram strength.

Incorporating CBD into the Mix

Many believe that THC and CBD work together synergistically to make the other more effective than it would be if taken alone. Therefore, you may wish to incorporate CBD and delta-8 into your routine.

Summary

Delta-8 THC may have a lot to offer people of every age, including senior citizens, based on what we’ve seen in the limited clinical studies available. When talking about delta 8 for old people, it is highly advised to consult a healthcare provider and get all the necessary information. Also, make sure you choose a high-quality formula from a trusted brand/manufacturer.