Is Delta 8 THC a Good Option for Seniors to Take?
By now, many of us have heard that cannabidiol, more commonly known as CBD, may offer some unique effects that can be useful to seniors, specifically. We also know that many seniors are taking CBD at the suggestions of their doctors. Cannabidiol is the dominant compound in hemp, and it’s non-intoxicating and considered safe for daily use.
But there’s another cannabinoid from the hemp plant that’s quickly becoming popular, and it’s Delta 8 THC. You see, Delta 8 THC is a weaker form of Delta 9 THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, but it does produce psychoactive effects, nonetheless. However, it would be an insult to seniors to suggest that after a certain age, this type of high is not desirable. And, given the properties of Delta 8, it’s worth exploring as an option for those in their 60s and above.
That’s why well be covering everything Delta 8 for senior application, while also discussing this compound’s properties and best methods for seniors to potentially incorporate it into their daily routines.
Seniors and Cannabinoids
CBD has become widely popular for seniors, largely because of its fascinating properties that show it may be particularly useful for those dealing with common conditions affecting this generation of people, such as:
Cannabinoids like CBD are unique in the way in which they absorb into the body via the endocannabinoid system, by binding to cannabinoid receptors that regulate specific bodily functions like pain regulation, mood, brain function and more.
As we know, cannabidiol is not the only cannabinoid in hemp. Delta 8 THC is, in fact, another cannabinoid, but a minorly occurring one. When taken as part of the entire plant, its effects are indistinguishable from those of cannabidiol. But now, companies are extracting and concentrating it to produce products that give you strong doses of this particular cannabinoid.
Delta 8 is psychoactive, and so it feels different in the body than CBD as it produces a high. It’s milder than that of marijuana, but it is a high regardless, and so seniors should be aware of this before taking it. Obviously, these effects are dose dependent.
Delta 8 THC’s Potential Uses for Seniors
Delta 8 THC’s high is unique in that it tends to allow users to feel self-aware rather than completely out of it. Most refer to it as calming and/or uplifting and report a generally pleasant experience. But it’s important to know that being psychoactive isn’t all that Delta 8 has going for it.
Delta 8 is a cannabinoid that binds twice with CB1 receptors in the nervous system, which is something that CBD can’t do. What this means is that the useful properties we’re about to discuss may be stronger in Delta 8 THC.
Being such a new discovery, Delta 8 THC hasn’t yet been studied to the extent that CBD has. There are few studies on the proven effects of Delta 8. Fortunately, however, some clinical studies do exist which give us a good overview of its capabilities that are unique from other plant compounds.
One thing we know is that Delta 8 has properties that could be helpful to seniors specifically. Basically, delta8 THC seems to have neuroprotective properties, much like CBD, which can potentially prevent severe cognitive decline that is seen in dementia patients. Neuroprotectants keep the neurons healthy while securing the neural pathways that are an integral part of cognitive function.
Other properties include analgesic activity, which can be great for anyone dealing with chronic pain. Still, seniors are more prone to chronic pain conditions due to wear and tear of the body.
It may also offer mood effects that can fend off feelings of anxiety and depression, and appetite-boosting properties for seniors struggling to get in enough calories each day.
Is Delta 8 THC Safe for Seniors?
Like CBD, Delta 8 THC is deemed nontoxic, and there have been no reports of fatal overdose. It can be taken daily, and the only real concern is its psychoactive properties which could cause temporary low blood pressure and dry mouth, while possibly inhibiting one’s ability to drive or operate machinery. Of course, you should always talk to your doctor before starting Delta 8 to see if it’s right for you based on your specific medical needs.
How Senior Citizens Can Create the Best Delta 8 THC Routine for Their Needs
Now, let’s share some tips for starting a routine with Delta 8 THC.
Tip #1: Know Your Current State of Health
Because of such little research available about Delta 8, it’s always good to consider any underlying conditions you have before taking it. Your doctor may know of certain conditions with which THC is not compatible.
Tip #2: Consider Any Medications You’re Taking
Make sure to tell your doctor about medications you’re on prior to taking Delta 8. It’s possible that this compound can inhibit CYP3A4 – an enzyme that breaks down certain medications. This is another area in which not enough research has been done, but we know that Delta 9 can interfere with some medications in varying levels.
Tip #3: Start with a Low Strength and Low Dose
Because of its psychoactive effects, it’s best for people, whether senior or not, to start out with a low strength and dose in the beginning, and slowly increase their usage as desired and tolerated. Most Delta 8 products come with clear dosing instructions, so go with the recommended amount when just starting out and wait to see how it makes you feel.
Tip #4: Try Taking Delta 8 THC Daily
One thing we know about cannabinoids in general is that they seem to have the ability to become more effective over time if we are taking them daily. This is because of the endocannabinoid system’s way of accumulating, utilizing, and storing cannabinoids like CBD and Delta 8 in the body. So, if you can, take it daily to better improve your chances of a successful experience.
Tip #5: Keep Your Doctor Informed
Make sure that you continue to inform your doctor of your Delta 8 experience so that he or she can decide whether or not you could be taking more or less to experience the desired results in a way that is healthy.
Delta 8 THC is Destined to Become the Next Big Thing For Seniors
Overall, there’s no reason why senior citizens should be left out of it. In fact, this cannabinoid has properties that may be of particular use to those above a certain age, including properties relating to brain health, appetite and more. Therefore, if you’re a senior, it’s a good time to talk to your doctor about trying Delta 8 THC, and make sure to inform them on medications you are taking and any underlying conditions that you may have.