Delta 8 THC - What You Need to Know

There is a delta 8 THC craze underway and many people are interested to know more about this up-and-coming cannabinoid. Its cousin cannabinoid—delta 9 THC—has been holding onto the spotlight for years, but now it’s delta 8’s time to shine! 

As people become more aware of delta 8 and how it differs from delta 9, it is quickly becoming a preferred form of THC for its uplifting effects, potential benefits, and ease of use.

Below, we highlight the minor cannabinoid delta 8 THC (delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol) and why it may be a component of the hemp plant you’d like to try out.  

What is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC is just one of over 100 cannabinoids in cannabis plants and has previously been a bit lost in the crowd. It has also been overshadowed for years by delta 9 and CBD (cannabidiol)  which are the two most prevalent cannabinoids in cannabis plants that tend to get the most attention. Minor cannabinoids are starting to make their mark though, and it’s clear that delta 8 is gaining speed ahead of other lesser-known components of cannabis and hemp.

Will Delta 8 THC Get You High?

Delta 8 THC provides an uplifting effect, but not necessarily in the same way that delta 9 THC does.

Delta 8 and delta 9 have similar chemical makeup and they both interact with the CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). However, because delta 8’s double bond is on the eight carbon in the strand and not on the ninth, the effects in the ECS are different. 

Many people who use delta 8 have said that their experience is less intense than when they consume delta 9 THC or THC from marijuana. Other observations are that delta 8 leaves them more clear-headed, boosts energy, calms nerves, and improves focus.

Is Delta 8 Federally Legal?

Whether delta 8 is federally legal or not is clearly defined yet still up for debate. If that sounds confusing, that’s because it is right now.

The letter of the law in the 2018 Farm Bill passed by Congress makes delta 8 a completely legal substance, but it is currently being questioned by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) because of its similarities to delta 9.

Under the 2018 Farm Bill, delta 8 THC is legal as long as:

a) it is extracted from the hemp plant and not extracted from marijuana
b) it does not have more than 0.3% concentration of delta 9 THC
c) it is not a synthetic form of THC

Since delta 8 and delta 9 are two separate molecules, delta 8 on its own does not contain any delta 9 THC.

However, individual states are able to create their own legal definitions of a hemp-derived product. It's important to research your local laws regarding delta 8 products before purchasing. 

The big question now is whether delta 8 is “synthetic” or extracted from hemp.

Is Delta 8 a Synthetic Cannabinoid?

Currently, the term “synthetic” is not defined in the 2018 Farm Bill which makes it very difficult to determine if delta 8 is considered synthetic or not.

To produce most delta 8 THC, CBD is extracted directly from the hemp plant. Delta 8 and other cannabinoids can then be isolated from the CBD using different processes.

Therefore, clarifying the term “synthetic” is quite critical in this consideration of whether it is defined as a naturally occurring substance of hemp or not. 

Because delta 8 THC is created using a natural hemp extract, and isn't "imitating" nature, we don't believe this cannabinoid should be treated as a synthetic ingredient. 

Is Delta 8 the Same as CBD?

Delta 8 is not the same as CBD because they are two different cannabinoids that are extracted from the cannabis plant. All cannabinoids have their own chemical makeup and affect the endocannabinoid system, and subsequently the body, differently.

For instance, THC cannabinoids like delta 8 and delta 9 have a noticeably euphoric effect, while CBD and other cannabinoids are more subtle. 

If you are interested in learning more about CBD benefits and the different types of CBD products available on the market, be sure to check out our What is CBD post!

What are the Effects of Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC has not been studied extensively, but research in this area is quickly expanding now that consumer demand is booming. 

In our experience, delta 8 is extremely relaxing with a noticeably calming potency. We’re enthusiasts for all things hemp, so we consider delta 8 a fantastic daily addition to anyone’s wellness routine. 

The effects of delta 8 are clear-headed and typically don’t produce confusion or paranoia. Instead, delta 8 allows you to focus on the task at hand while benefiting from its soothing qualities.

Many people who use delta 8 say that they prefer it over delta 9 THC because it allows them to enjoy the benefits of THC without impairing their ability to function during the day. However, you should never consume delta 8 and operate heavy machinery, such as a vehicle.

How to Consume Delta 8 THC

Delta 8 can be smoked, vaped, or ingested and your delivery method is a matter of preference. 

Rechargeable vape pods and cartridges have been gaining popularity as an easy and familiar way to consume hemp-derived cannabinoids.

Gummies and edibles infused with delta 8 are also popular because they are tasty, convenient, and easy to take with you when you’re on the go. Another benefit of delta 8 edibles is the option to divide them into halves or quarters depending on your serving preference.

If you are regularly drug tested for work or sports, you should be mindful that all forms of THC, including delta 8, will show up on a drug test. If this is a concern for you, a CBD isolate product may be a better choice for experiencing the benefits of hemp without impacting your career.

Conclusion

Delta 8 THC is quickly gaining traction as consumers look for more potent hemp-derived extracts. While it was previously a lesser-known cannabinoid, it is quickly becoming popular for its relaxing properties.

Delta 8 THC is not the same as CBD and offers noticeably potent and uplifting effects. However, full-spectrum CBD products do contain trace amounts of delta 9 THC (less than 0.3%).

However, if you're looking for CBD products with traces of THC that provide a more subtle experience, check out our post on the different ways to use CBD. If you already know what you are looking for, browse our shop to see the full collection of products we offer at Hemplucid!