What do you want to know about Delta 8 THC? Considering Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC are fairly new to the cannabis market, it's important to understand Delta 8 THC effects and how it is extracted. Let's start with the basics — what exactly is Delta 8 THC?
If you are new to CBD or THC, this article is just for you. Delta 8 THC is one of many hemp derivatives that comes from the cannabis plant. It is considered a controlled substance in some states, so knowledge about this unique compound is key to understanding its effects and suggested uses.
Read on for Delta 8 THC explained, including recommended dosing and methods, possible side effects, the extraction process, and more!
Delta 8 THC (Is It CBD?)
Delta 8 THC (D8) is a compound that is naturally present in hemp plants. It is similar to cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD) since it is a cannabinoid-isomer.
In other words, it may have properties similar to CBD, but small differences in chemical structure make a big difference for D8. Understanding how D8 THC is made can help you better understand how THC relates to CBD.
When Was Delta 8 THC Discovered?
While Delta 8 may be the newest trend in the cannabis market, it has actually been around for a while. It was formally discovered in 1965 by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam (the "Father of Cannabis"). Many people refer to Delta 8 THC as a compound that has been "hiding in plain sight" for many years.
How Is Delta 8 THC Made?
Curious about how Delta 8 THC is extracted? Delta 8 THC can be extracted from hemp plants, but only in very small amounts. Luckily, CBD can be converted into D8 THC using a variety of different methods.
Delta 8 THC Versus CBD
It seems like daily, there are more CBD and THC options to choose from. Even regular users might be feeling a bit apprehensive.
Delta 8 can elicit euphoric feelings and is notably more intense than CBD. Interestingly, D8 is just an isomer of CBD. Essentially, their chemical structures are the same, apart from just two small differences.
The most notable difference between CBD and D8 is that D8 is a kind of THC. This means that it is potentially psychoactive. Some brands mix D8 with their CBD, so it is important to understand the differences between CBD and THC.
Hemp refers to cannabis strains containing less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC (D9) by dry weight. D9 THC is responsible for the euphoric, intoxicating "high" experienced with marijuana. Marijuana which is cannabis containing over 0.3% Delta 9 THC.
Both CBD and THC are naturally occurring compounds in hemp. Their differences make them each unique and can allow you to tailor your hemp products to what works for your individual routine.
Delta 8 THC vs Delta 9
Many people prefer Delta 8 to Delta 9 THC. Delta 8 is known for producing a feeling of mild euphoria without the whimsical "high" that Delta 9 THC produces.
D8 and D9 are very similar. However a larger dose of D8 is needed to produce potent effects similar to those of D9 THC.
What Is Delta 8 THC Good For?
Since Delta 8 is considered somewhat of a "happy medium" between CBD and its cousin Delta 9 THC, D8 is one of the trendiest cannabis products to date. Its legality differs by state law, but that hasn't stopped a plethora of D8 products from entering the market.
Gummies and vape products are some of the most popular D8 items available. Learn about the differences in popular D8 THC products using the chart below.
Can Delta 8 THC Get You High?
With D8, or any substance unfamiliar to you, it is important to learn more about it before putting it into your body.
Delta 8 works with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) to promote an overall balance in the body.
Common effects of consuming D8 THC include a potential:
- Increased focus or clarity
- Increased concentration
- Increased feelings of relaxation
- Increased feelings of comfort or calm
- Improved appetite
Most people who take Delta 8 say it makes them feel:
- Pleasant
- Uplifted
- Peaceful
Delta 8 THC vs Delta 9
Delta 8 is known for producing a pleasant, potent effect without causing the same whimsical "high" that the Delta 9 THC (D9) in marijuana does. Delta 9 is the main psychoactive compound found in marijuana.
Delta 8, on the other hand, is less intense. D8 is considered a slower, more subtle cousin of D9. It's well liked because it can keep the mind clear and promote a feeling of productivity.
In essence, D8 has a gentler touch than Delta 9. Both bind with receptors in the body's endocannabinoid system, however the small differences in structure can cause big differences in the effects that the body experiences.
What's Delta 8 THC Level?
Wondering how much D8 THC a product contains? Due to differing legal status by state, there is a lack of research and regulation for products containing Delta 8.
Fortunately, Hemplucid is devoted to being lucid about our products. That means we disclose exactly how much D8 and D9 each product contains.
All Hemplucid products are tested by a third party to ensure that they exceed purity and quality standards. You can view exactly what's in each batch at lucidlabs.hemplucid.com.
Here are some common terms to be familiar with when shopping for CBD and THC products, and can help you to determine exactly how much THC a certain product contains:
- Full-Spectrum CBD- contains CBD, less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), flavonoids, and terpenes
- Broad-Spectrum CBD- contains CBD, is THC-free (non-detectable levels at less than 0.001% THC), flavonoids, and terpenes
- Isolate CBD- contains CBD only (no THC, flavonoids, and typically no added terpenes)
- Delta 9 THC (Δ9 THC)- high amounts can produce psychoactive, intoxicating effects
- Delta 8 THC (Δ8 THC)- closely related to Delta 9 THC, but differences in chemical structure remove some of the psychoactive effects and may produce a mild sedative state instead
Can Delta THC Make You Sick?
Everyone responds to THC differently. Some people are THC sensitive, while others find combining THC products with CBD in their regular routine enhances the "entourage effect."
The most common potential side effects of Delta 8 THC to be aware of include:
- Dry mouth
- Dry or red eyes
- Drowsiness
- Grogginess
- Feeling "high" (can happen with higher doses)
- Tiredness or lethargy
- Getting the munchies
Can Delta 8 THC Cause Anxiety?
In general, THC can cause some people to feel anxiety or paranoia. However, these effects are much more common with Delta 9 THC than they are with Delta 8.
In fact, many people prefer the more gentle effects of Delta 8 due to the smoother, more mild type of "high" it produces. Some even describe the "high" as energizing and instead of anxiety-causing.
How Does Delta 8 THC Make You Feel?
So, how does D8 make you feel? You'll definitely feel a bit of a "high", especially if you take D8 in high doses.
We always recommend that you start with a small amount and work your way up, especially when it comes to THC. The most commonly reported feelings include:
- Euphoria
- Happiness
- Relief
Delta 8 is thought to be a THC at less than half the strength of other kinds of THC, although more research is needed to fully understand its effects.
Where Is Delta 8 THC Legal?
Wondering if you live in one of the states where Delta 8 THC is illegal? The CBDThinker interactive map is a great resource for finding out if Delta 8 THC is legal in your state.
Regulations can change daily, so it is important to check back regularly to see what the standards are for using D8 in your state.
Many companies take a proactive approach by also restricting access to D8 products to those who are 18-21+ years old. Again, regulations and laws differ by state, so it is key to keep up with the governing rules of your state.
Dosing D8
A crucial part of using Delta 8 THC is understanding general guidelines for use. Here are some common tips and tricks if you are a beginner or first-time user. We want your first experience to be a good one!
Differences in body chemistry aside, there are some basic dosing guidelines. D8 products are generally recommended for ages 21 and up, and not intended for specific health conditions or life stages, such as pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The recommended serving size by experience is as follows:
- Beginner- 5-15 mg per use
- Intermediate- 15-50 mg per use
- Advanced- 50 mg+ per use
Take our D8 gummies for example. Half a gummy is recommended for first-timers, as each gummy contains 25 mg D8 THC each.
There is a bit of a learning curve with other methods, like vaping. Additionally, taking D8 on an empty stomach can speed up the process. Vaping is the quickest method of onset, and it only takes 1-5 minutes to start feeling effects.
Alternatively, edibles and ingestibles can take up to 1-2 hours to start "working" as desired. As you carefully and thoughtfully use D8 products, you can find the balance that works best for you.
The Bottom Line On Delta 8 THC
Delta 8 THC has been around for a while, but it has recently gained traction in the cannabis community. It's considered a "happy medium" between the subtle effects of CBD and the more intense effects of Delta 9. D8 produces a much gentler, more productive "high" without the whimsical effects of D9.
Eager to learn more? Check out Hemplucid University for our expanding library of educational videos.
Excited To Try Delta 8?
Explore our entire D8 collection.
References
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Health Hub Digital Limited. CBD Oral Strips: an easier, more discreet and effective way of CBD consumption. Hubpublishing.co.uk. Published 2021.
Leafly Staff. What is delta-8? Leafly.com. Published March 31, 2021.
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