Image of The Science Behind Delta 9 THC: How It Works in the Body

The Science Behind Delta 9 THC: How It Works in the Body

  • October 15, 2024
  • |
  • Alex Urban

Delta 9 THC—the compound most known for that iconic cannabis “high”—isn’t just for recreational fun. Behind the scenes, it’s doing a lot more in your body than you might think.

From activating your brain’s pleasure centers to helping with chronic pain, there’s a whole science behind how it works. 

Let’s dive into what’s really happening when Delta 9 THC gets into your system.

What Exactly is Delta 9 THC?

Delta 9 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is one of over 118 cannabinoids found in cannabis. It's the main player responsible for cannabis’s psychoactive effects. In other words, it’s the reason you feel euphoric, relaxed, or just plain "high" after using it. But what’s really happening behind the scenes?

Your Body’s Built-In System: The Endocannabinoid System

Here’s where things get fascinating. Our bodies have a natural system called the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which is like the backstage crew controlling a lot of important stuff—mood, appetite, pain, and even memory.

 Delta 9 THC connects with this system, specifically binding to CB1 receptors in the brain. When this happens, the ECS signals the release of dopamine, the feel-good chemical. That’s where that high comes from!

The Brain on Delta 9 THC

When Delta 9 THC enters your bloodstream, it makes a beeline for the brain. Once it binds to those CB1 receptors, it starts affecting key regions like:

  • The Hippocampus – responsible for memory (ever heard of short-term memory loss?).
  • The Amygdala – where emotions like fear and anxiety are processed.

According to a 2019 study, THC has shown to reduce symptoms of PTSD, such as nightmares and hyperarousal. No wonder it’s catching the attention of more than just recreational users.

Therapeutic Benefits: More Than Just a High

Delta 9 THC doesn’t just mess with your head—it’s got some solid therapeutic benefits, too.

  • Pain Relief: A study published in the Journal of Pain found that THC can significantly reduce chronic pain in patients, making it a great option for conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia.
  • Appetite Stimulation: According to research, THC triggers hunger signals in the brain. In fact, cannabis consumers globally spent an estimated $415 billion on high-THC cannabis products in 2023, partially for its ability to help with conditions like anorexia and cachexia.
  • Nausea Reduction: THC is also popular among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, helping reduce nausea and vomiting.

THC and The "High"

But let’s not forget the main attraction. THC’s psychoactive effects are why people love it. The "high" comes from that dopamine release we mentioned earlier. But the intensity of the high can vary based on how you consume it. For example, edibles hit harder because, once processed by the liver, Delta 9 THC turns into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is even more potent!

Watch Out for the Side Effects

As great as Delta 9 THC sounds, it's not without its potential downsides. Higher doses can lead to anxiety, paranoia, and even temporary cognitive impairment. So, start low and go slow, especially if you’re new to THC.

The Perfect Balance: Our Kush Kube

At King B Distribution, we offer Kush Kube gummies, which provide a precise and reliable dose of Delta 9 THC. Whether you’re seeking the benefits of relaxation, pain relief, or just a balanced high, our gummies offer the perfect balance in every bite.

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