Does Delta 8 Make You Sleepy? An Analysis of Sleep Effects + User Reviews

So, you’ve tried CBD. You’ve tried melatonin. You’ve tried just about every product out there to help fight sleep issues and in some cases, insomnia.

If you’re looking to try something new, Delta-8 may be for you. 

In this article, we discuss how Delta-8 can be used to aid in a more restful sleep for many users. 

But first, let’s review what Delta-8 is and how it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

What is Delta-8?

In short, Delta 8 is a cannabinoid found in the hemp plant, just like CBD. However, Delta 8 is found in much smaller quantities. And unlike CBD, Delta-8 is a Tetrahydrocannabinol with psychoactive qualities.

A big distinction is how that Delta-8 THC can feel compared to the high you get from Delta-9 THC. 

Learn more about the difference between Delta-8 and Delta-9 edibles.

Wait, Does Delta-8 Get You High?

Yes. Delta-8 is a Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). There are different types of THC, and more variations are being extracted from hemp all of the time. The most common form of THC is called Delta-9 and is found in marijuana.

Because Delta-8 is a type of THC, it will get you high.

And it will likely show up on a drug test, so keep that in mind.

But users have described the Delta-8 feeling as: 

“Relaxed and clear headed high, without the intensity that marijuana has.”

And at a low dose, you may not feel the full psychoactive effect, but can still use it for its potential health benefits. In fact, many users describe Delta-8 as being a halfway point between Delta-9 THC and CBD.

For this reason, Delta-8 has been gaining a ton of traction in the hemp space. From marijuana and CBD users alike! And, especially, for those looking to try a new solution to sleep-related issues.

Want to know more about what Delta 8 feels like? Head on over to our article where 13 people share their experience with Delta 8.

But is Delta-8 legal?

Delta-8 is technically federally legal because it’s derived from hemp and protected by the 2018 Farm Bill. However, it may not be legal or available in all states. Check our most up-to-date shipping options here. 

Does Delta-8 Make You sleepy?

The effects of Delta 8 will vary from person to person. However, Delta-8, when consumed as an edible or in larger doses from a vape cartridge, may help users fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up well rested. There is some evidence through studies at the National Library of Medicine which list Delta-8 THC as a pain reliever (analgesic) which may assist with relaxation into sleep. Additionally, many users report Delta-8 as having anti-anxiety and relaxation properties. 

How Does Delta-8 THC Compare to Delta-9 THC Properties When Falling Asleep?

It’s not always the heavy, body-sinking drowsiness some users experience with traditional Delta-9 THC. Instead, users report a much calmer, softer night’s sleep. Like a halfway point between CBD and THC. 

Head on over to our guide to learn more about the differences between Delta 8 and Delta 9.

How Does Delta-8 Improve Sleep Quality?

It all has to do with the Endocannabinoid System (or ECS). There is some evidence that Delta-8 THC can bind and activate the CB-1 receptor to induce sleep as well as other possible sleep-enhancing qualities like anxiety reduction, energy metabolism, and chronic pain relief.  

There is a lot of science out there if you really want to geek out. But we’ll break it down for you here. 

What is the Endocannabinoid System?

The ECS is the system that signals cells in your body to regulate certain functions, including: 

• Sleep
• Brain function/memory
• Metabolism
• Appetite
• Mood
• Inflammation
• Chronic pain
• And more…

The ECS basically is the hub for all of these functions in your body by helping to maintain a balance. 

Without getting too scientific on you, the ECS has 3 main parts to it, but the most crucial in terms of how Delta 8 can aid to better sleep is with the CB1 receptor.

The CB1 receptor in the ECS can help to regulate sleep patterns, pain, metabolism, anxiety, and appetite, among others. 

Image Source ncbi.nlm.nih.go

Want to know more about the science between the endocannabinoid system and THC? Read about how the activation of the CB1 receptor can induce sleep. 

Delta 8 binds to the CB1 receptor and it is believed to be able to activate it. 

However, more research needs to be done, as with anything in the hemp space.

What Clinical Sleep Trials Have Been Completed for Delta 8?

Unfortunately, clinical trials and studies aren’t at the forefront of the government’s funding, largely in part to the threat that the hemp industry has on big pharma and other corporations.

But, we believe that there is no better “study” than user reviews, so we asked a bunch of our customers to tell us what THEY felt.

What Are Some User Reviews for Delta 8 and Sleep?

“Just like the other cartridges these work amazing! I personally use them to help me sleep and not overthink before bed.” – Katie

“I’ve been taking the gummies 1-2 hrs before bed and I’ve been sleeping like a champ!” – Jesus

“I got Delta 8 to help me sleep better at night and it works!” – Anonymous

“…right before bed I can never sleep through the night back pain but now I’ve been using this and I’m staying asleep at least 6 hours. I was only sleeping 2 hours at a time so I’m in love…” – Anonymous

“…Reduces anxiety, promotes incredible sleep and imparts an overall feeling of relaxation…” – Ann

“This stuff kills my anxiety during the day and helps me sleep at night, it’s amazing!” – Anonymous

“Loved it…helps me sleep through the night” – Kristin 

One thing is clear: more research needs to be done, in general, about the effects of Delta 8 and all hemp-based products. The potential benefits are many. However, there is some resistance in the scientific community to study the effects at large. Here’s a quote from the National Institute of Health that helps us understand why that may be:

Although cannabinoids have therapeutic potential, their psychoactive effects have largely limited their use in clinical practice.

With an overwhelming lack of scientific research to back any sleep claims, we have relied on users to describe how they have benefited from trying Delta-8. 

Should I Try Delta-8 for Better Sleep?

We highly recommend consulting a doctor before incorporating any potential sleep aids or hemp products into your routine. 

If you’re ready to try Delta-8 to see whether it helps you sleep, we can get you started. We are a believer in Delta 8. We love our products.

That’s why we give away FREE SAMPLES to all new customers to try it for themselves.

You can also reach out to us at any time if you have questions!