In the market of hemp-derived cannabinoid products designed to enhance sleep quality, Delta-11-THC has emerged as a viable option. While not a new cannabinoid, Delta-11-THC has gained attention for its extreme potency and newfound legal status in recent years. If you’re curious whether Delta-11 can help you sleep, follow us as we dig into the details behind its effects, potential use as a sleep aid.
Table of Contents
What is Delta-11?
Delta-11-THC Effects for Sleep
Is Delta-11 for Sleep Safe?
Using Delta-11 for Sleep
Where to Buy Delta-11 for Sleep
Delta-11-THC is a federally legal hemp isomer with psychoactive effects that are stronger than traditional THC. Its potent psychoactive effects, which are potentially three times stronger than Delta-9's, are unmatched by most legal hemp products.
Delta-11-THC is derived from hemp plants through a refinement process called “isomerization.” To create Delta-11-THC, CBD is first extracted from hemp plants. This extracted CBD undergoes a refinement process in which its components are rearranged to transform it into Delta-11.
The two compounds are isomers, meaning they contain all of the same molecular components, just arranged in the same order. This makes it possible to produce Delta-11 from CBD without using any synthesization techniques. Therefore, Delta-11 is not a synthetic cannabinoid, it is an isomer, making it legal by federal hemp definitions.
Delta-11 is by no means a new cannabinoid, but it has been scarcely studied (largely in part to the multi-decade cannabis prohibition). Although there’s currently no research to help us understand Delta-11's medicinal potential, there’s reason to believe it may be an incredibly potent sleep inducer. It is, after all, up to three times more powerful than Delta-9-THC in affecting muscle and nervous system functions.
Still, Delta-11 activates the same neuroreceptor sites as traditional THC, so it can be expected to have similar effects. So, how does THC help sleep?
Well, according to research, THC’s impact on CB1 receptors is associated with reduced sleep latency, or the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. Research has also found traditional THC may make it easier to fall asleep, improve sleep quality, increase slow-wave sleep, and increase total sleep time.
Furthermore, THC may inhibit GABA production. In small doses, GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that can help you relax. But, too much GABA is associated with various sleep disorders. Some data seems to suggest that patients with insomnia and other sleep disorders experience better rest while using cannabis. Other evidence suggest that patients who lose sleep due to pain may also benefit from using THC for sleep
If you’re wondering how the stats between Delta-11 and Delta-9 line up, unfortunately, we don’t yet know. More evidence is needed to fully understand the way that Delta-11 may work for sleep, but it’s assumed to have similar (and maybe stronger) benefits. It acts on CB-1 receptors similarly to Delta-9, but with a higher affinity, meaning more Delta-11 is absorbed. That means that while it may offer similar benefits, its dosage and safety profile differs slightly.
The primary consequence of consuming Delta-11-THC is that some users may experience a potent high, even more intense than that produced by Delta-9-THC. Additionally, first-time users may encounter common side effects associated with hemp-derived cannabinoids, such as dry mouth or upset stomach. However, these minor side effects typically diminish as the body adjusts to the presence of Delta-11-THC in its regulatory systems.
Other common side effects related to THC use include:
Understanding proper dosage and ensuring that you choose a high-quality Delta-11-THC product is the best way to minimize risk.
Reputable manufacturers of Delta-11-THC produce the cannabinoid compound in ISO certified labs that adhere to stringent quality control regulations, ensuring the highest quality product.
High quality Delta-11-THC should be sourced from organically grown hemp plants that are non-GMO and free from pesticides. Look for third-party lab tests to verify the quality of any product you choose.
The ideal dosage of Delta-11-THC varies from person to person. It is influenced by factors such as metabolism, the severity of sleep disorders, other consumed cannabinoids, frequency of use, and the quantity consumed. Overall, the amount of Delta-11 needed is much lower than the amount of Delta-9-THC you may take.
Delta-11-THC is available in various forms and concentrations, ranging from low-dose 5 mg formulas to high-dose 50 mg formulas. It is advisable to start with smaller doses in edible form, like a Delta-11 gummy, to gauge its effects on your body.
If low doses of Delta-11-THC do not meet your sleep needs, you may need to increase the number of edibles consumed or switch to a more concentrated Delta-11-THC oil tincture or vape liquid. These higher concentration forms offer both a larger quantity of milligrams per dose and a faster onset of the sleep benefits associated with Delta-11-THC.
You may want to read “How Much Delta-11 Should I Take?” to learn more.
The method of using Delta-11-THC cannabinoid products for sleep depends on the specific form of Delta-11-THC purchased. For instance, Delta-11-THC oil tinctures can be placed directly under the tongue an hour or two before bedtime. They can also be added to food or beverages consumed during the same time frame.
Delta-11-THC vapes can be inhaled in a few puffs until the desired results are achieved. Similarly, Delta-11-THC flower infusions can be packed into a bowl or rolled into a joint and smoked before bedtime. The effects of inhaled doses take effect immediately, making them an effective choice for sleep.
Delta-11-THC edibles take longer to produce effects as they need to be processed through the digestive system. Consequently, it is recommended to consume Delta-11-THC edibles roughly 90 minutes before bedtime to ensure that the effects support a restful night's sleep.
Many individuals seeking cannabinoid-based sleep aids turn to Delta-11-THC for its potent effects that stimulate endocannabinoid receptors and neurotransmitters within the body. It's important to note that every individual may react differently to Delta-11-THC. You may need to take a trial-and-error approach to determining the most suitable form and dosage for your sleep-related health and wellness needs.
As mentioned earlier, Delta-11 is derived from hemp, which is legal in the U.S., but hemp products are still regulated on a state by state basis. Before purchasing or using any products containing Delta-11, it is crucial to research and understand the laws and regulations in your area. You can read “Where is Delta-11 Legal?” to learn more.
Our Elev8 Collection includes a variety of different product types to meet your needs, and it’s fully Farm Bill compliant and third-party tested.
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