Since the Farm Bill passed in 2018, the cultivation and production of hemp and hemp products have been legal. As a result, more cannabis products than ever before are readily available in many states across the country. Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products are newly popular cannabis products said to have many benefits. It comes in many different forms, such as Delta 8 gummies, vapes, and oils.
One of the potential benefits of Delta 8 is said to be cognitive function. So, what are experts saying about Delta 8 and cognitive function? Keep reading to find out.
What is Delta 8?
Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Delta 8 THC is similar to the more famous Delta 9 THC, the main ingredient in marijuana that causes psychoactive effects. These psychoactive effects are the “high” feeling that’s associated with cannabis. However, the potency of Delta 8 THC is much lower than Delta 9 THC.
In addition, Delta 8 THC is only found in minute amounts in cannabis plants. As a result, it’s challenging and expensive to extract. However, many Delta 8 product manufacturers have found a solution by converting cannabidiol (CBD) into Delta 8 THC.
Delta 8 affects the central nervous system.
Delta 8 THC has shown some potential in helping people who deal with an overly active mind. This cognitive benefit is due to the effects of the cannabinoids in Delta 8 products on the central nervous system. These cannabinoids produce a calming effect on the central nervous system. This calming effect promotes relaxation and can help with occasional anxiousness and sleeplessness.
Furthermore, Delta 8 THC has psychoactive effects that can cause the brain to release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that directly affects the brain’s pleasurable reward center. As a result, it can produce feelings of euphoria that can alleviate some feelings of anxiousness.
The effects of Delta 8 may have neuroprotective properties.
Delta 8 is a cannabinoid that has been found to have neuroprotective effects in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease. The mechanism of action appears to be through the inhibition of certain cytokines and the activation of cannabinoid receptors. This suggests that Delta-8 may be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases at some point in the future. However, much more research is necessary to support these findings.
Delta 8 shows promise regarding focus and concentration.
As Delta 8 THC interacts with the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, which involve memory, mood, and mental clarity, it shows promise with focus and concentration. By increasing the supply of these neurotransmitters, Delta 8 THC could potentially improve mental clarity to enhance focus and concentration.
Furthermore, as Delta 8 THC is less potent than Delta 9 THC, it’s reported to cause a smoother, clearer high feeling. This clearer experience is considered to help with focus and concentration as well. As always, more research is needed to determine the full extent of these effects.
Delta 8 THC may have some adverse side effects.
While Delta 8 THC shows promise with several cognitive benefits, it can have some adverse side effects as well. Some of these side effects can include dizziness, paranoia, and nausea. However, these side effects are usually associated with too high of a dosage for the person. To reduce the chances of experiencing side effects, start slow and gradually increase the dosage over time.
Delta 8 shows potential benefits for cognitive function.
Overall, the research indicates that Delta 8 may have a positive impact on cognitive function, especially when it comes to focus and concentration. These findings are still preliminary, and more research is needed to confirm these effects, but Delta 8 may be a promising tool in the fight against age-related cognitive decline. Keep in mind that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve cannabis products to treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition or disease. Furthermore, you should always consult your doctor before trying any new supplement.
