Both Delta-8 and Delta-9 are effective at acting as sleep aids for those who suffer from insomnia, sleep disorders, and more. Low doses of both substances can assist in relaxation and euphoria, which can help with sleep.
Fact is, sleep disorders are becoming extremely common in today’s generation and it is reported that approximately 70 million Americans suffer from numerous and continuous sleep disorders.
Hence the use of various natural sleeping aids such as THC has become the weapon of choice for these sleep battles with over 70% of young adults confirming that it actually helps them sleep better.
Apart from the psychoactive effects of Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, these cannabinoids are known for their sedative properties. As such they are some of the go-to medications for individuals that have a hard time falling asleep.
Key Takeaways
- Delta-8 and Delta-9 both offer psychoactive effects and offer sedative properties that lead to overall quality sleep.
- Delta-9 binds predominantly to CB1 receptors offering better mental relaxation while delta-8 predominantly binds to CB2 receptors offering better physical relaxation.
- Delta-8 has milder potency compared to Delta-9.
Is Delta-8 or Delta-9 Good For Sleep?
Both Delta-8 and Delta-9 are naturally occurring cannabinoids that offer psychoactive effects and have sedative properties that work together in promoting sleep.
However, there are distinct differences between these two compounds. For one, Delta-9 THC is one of the most researched cannabinoids in the market today and it has many therapeutic benefits that contribute to sleep.
Not only does it have a strong sedative effect that relaxes an individual’s body and mind, but it is also believed that Delta-9 THC helps stabilize a person’s circadian rhythm, the body’s internal sleep and wake cycle that occurs naturally.
Additionally, it might also help people with conditions that affect their sleep cycles, such as RLS (restless leg syndrome.) Moreover, Delta-9 when ingested is known to reduce REM sleep. Reducing REM sleep means reducing dreams so for people that have nightmares due to PTSD are also known to benefit from it.
That said, it is also important to note that in some studies, the people that have used Delta-9 THC reported that it worsened their sleep, had no impact at all or had mixed results. This means that the effects of delta-9 and sleep may vary depending on the individual’s tolerance and other factors.
On the other hand, Delta-8 is particularly new to the market compared to other cannabinoids so research specifically pointing to the connection between sleep and Delta-8 is, at the moment, non-existent.
Nevertheless, the connection between Delta-8 and sleep can be made with the general studies done up to date. In an experiment done by the National Library Of Medicine, 71% of delta-8 users have experienced relaxation, 68% have experienced euphoria, and 55% have experienced pain relief.
This data suggests that Delta-8 might in fact be very helpful in promoting quality sleep since it makes people relaxed and eases discomfort. However, this conclusion might not be pushed until further research comes to light.
Effects On The Body and Sleep Aid
Both Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, particularly the CB1 and CB2 receptors. If you didn’t already know these receptors are responsible for regulating important functions such as sleep, mood, etc.
For better understanding, let’s summarize it in short. The CB1 receptors are located throughout your body and in the central nervous system. In this case, they are responsible for regulating the effects of all cannabinoids in your mind.
On the other hand, CB2 receptors are located throughout the human body except the nervous system. They are responsible for regulating the effects on your body. Now, these two compounds interact with the two receptors leading to both mental and physical relaxation, in the end promoting overall sleep quality.
However, there is a slight difference on the level these two cannabinoids interact with the receptors. For one, Delta-9 binds to the CB1 receptor more than Delta-8 which is why it offers more potent psychoactive effects. Accordingly, Delta-9 binds to the CB2 receptor less than Delta-8 so it offers less stronger effects on the body.
Based on this, it would suggest that when it comes to sleep, Delta-9 would be more preferred since it offers stronger mental relaxation. Yet, it’s not surprising that an equal number of people have chosen Delta-8 over Delta-9 THC due to its milder potency.
Choosing Delta-8 Or Delta-9
Since both Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors offering unmatched mental and physical relaxation, and in the end, promoting better sleep quality.
However, choosing between them comes down to a few personal factors that everyone needs to consider:
- Potency And Tolerance: Delta-9 is highly more potent than delta-8. So if you’re new to cannabis, delta-8 might be the better choice since it can offer a milder potency and may help you adjust better. If not, the classic THC works fine.
- Effects: Delta-8 predominantly binds to CB2 receptors so it is great for people that have trouble sleeping as a consequence of physical discomfort while delta-9 predominantly binds to CB1 receptors so it is better for mental relaxation. Keep in mind that both these cannabinoids bind to opposite receptors to a certain degree as well so it all comes down to the level of tolerance you have and the level of potency you prefer.
Common Questions
Questions about choosing Delta-8 or Delta-9 for sleep:
How Much Delta-9 Should I Take For Sleep?
Experts suggest a low dose of 2-milligram Delta-9 THC for beginners taking it for sleep. Higher doses could lead to side effects that would lead to sleep depravity instead.
Is Delta-9 Less Relaxing Than Delta 8?
No, it’s a matter of preference since some like the higher potency of Delta-9 more than Delta-8. However, fewer people have reported lower levels of paranoia and anxiety compared to the classic THC.