What is Delta 8 THC?

If you’ve dipped your toes into the cannabis market anytime recently, you’ve likely seen delta-8 THC all over the place. This common cannabinoid allows users to experience many of the benefits of traditional THC without the same side effects or legal limitations. But what is delta-8 THC, exactly, and how does it differ from other types of THC? Is it the right option for you? Below, we explore the answers to these questions and more as we cover the basics of this powerful compound.

The Basics: What is THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the main psychoactive compound found in Cannabis sativa plants. It’s a type of compound known as a cannabinoid, which triggers bodily reactions when it binds to receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). 

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The traditional type of THC, delta-9 THC, is predominantly found in marijuana plants. 

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By legal definition, hemp is cannabis that contains 0.3% delta-9 THC or less by dry weight. 

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That means that it naturally contains low levels of the kind of THC that’s in marijuana. However, there are other types of THC that may still exist within hemp plants, including the famous delta-8 THC.

What is Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, or delta-8 THC, is another of the four most common cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. You will very often see it abbreviated as D8THC, D8-THC, D8 THC, ▲8THC, or ▲8.

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Chemically, delta-8 THC is quite similar to delta-9 THC and other cannabinoids like CBD. Its similarity to these cannabinoids is part of why it’s so easy to synthesize. 

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Like traditional THC, delta 8 is naturally occurring and psychoactive. When consumed, it causes intoxicating effects, though it’s known to be milder than delta-9 THC.

However, since only delta-9 THC is federally illegal (due to its status as a controlled substance, delta-8 THC is not subject to the same restrictions.

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Delta-8 THC products come in all shapes and sizes, from flower to vapes to edibles, gummies, and more. Its ability to provide effects and benefits similar to delta-9 THC without the same legal red tape has earned delta 8 a spot in the hearts of many cannabis lovers.

How is delta-8 THC made?

Delta-8 THC occurs naturally in hemp but in relatively small concentrations. For practical and economic reasons, delta-8 THC is typically made in a lab by converting CBD or delta-9 THC into delta-8 THC through a chemical reaction.

This chemical reaction is not dissimilar to the natural conversion that occurs when cannabinoids are created from CBGA, their “parent” cannabinoid, as the cannabis plant grows. 

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Cannabinoids naturally change in the cannabis plant all the time based on heat, light, time, and genetic factors. The science involved in the growing of hemp and marijuana is a part of how growers ensure they end up with the right end results.

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Delta-8 THC produced in the lab can be considered a "derivative" or "conversion."  This is an important differentiation from being a "synthetic substance," which is more easily classified as illegal.

Is delta-8 THC legal?

Yes, delta-8 THC is federally legal.  Delta-8-THC was made legal in the 2018 Farm Bill (H.R. 2:  The Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018) when it was announced that hemp and all of its derivatives and cannabinoids are 100% federally legal, with the exception of delta-9 THC. 

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Previous to the 2018 Farm Bill, the 1970 Controlled Substances Act had made delta-8 THC illegal, but the new language specifically removed delta-8 from the Controlled Substances List.  

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The Farm Bill clarifies that delta-8 THC from hemp is not on the Controlled Substance list, and it is considered federally legal. 

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However, some states have begun to adopt new laws that restrict or prohibit the use of delta-8 THC. It’s possible that other states may change their laws in the future, too. Be sure you know what the laws are near you before you start shopping for delta-8 THC to avoid any disappointment.

What Are the Effects of Delta-8 THC?

The effects of delta-8 THC are similar to those of delta-9 THC, though they tend to be milder. Common effects reported by users include:

• Euphoria and mood enhancement
• Relaxation
• Altered perception, memory, coordination, etc.
• Sedation
• Pain relief
• Stress and anxiety relief

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As is true for other cannabinoids, the effects of delta-8 THC usually last for about two to four hours. If you consume a delta-8 THC edible, however, its effects may last for longer, sometimes up to eight to 12 hours. 

Does delta-8 get you high?

Yes, delta-8 THC can and will get you high! Its psychoactive properties are a big part of why it’s become so popular. Overall, the user can generally expect a high that is mood-boosting with a clear-headed euphoria without over-intoxication. 

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Though delta-8 THC is psychoactive, its intoxicating effects are reportedly not as intense as delta-9 THC. This may be due to how it binds to receptors in your endocannabinoid system. 

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Delta-8 THC binds to CB1 receptors, which are primarily found in your nervous system, connective tissues, and other major organs. These receptors are also responsible for mediating the psychoactive effects of THC. 

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So, by binding to these receptors, delta-8 THC may offer a clearer high that’s less likely to cause anxiety or make it hard to concentrate. 

Common Delta-8 THC Side Effects

Any cannabis product can come with a risk of side effects, and delta-8 THC goodies are no exception. Most side effects are avoidable if you stick to an appropriate dose. However, some people still experience adverse effects such as:

• Headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Paranoia, anxiety, or confusion
• Tremors

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Fortunately, serious side effects are rare, and most side effects go away on their own within a few hours.

Will I pass a drug test if I use delta-8 THC?

No. Using any THC product will trigger a positive THC drug test result. Unfortunately, that means you’ll want to steer clear of delta 8 if you need to take a drug test for legal or professional reasons. 

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Drug tests are not sophisticated enough to detect the difference between delta-8 and delta-9 THC. Plus, most drug tests aren’t looking for cannabinoids themselves; they’re looking for metabolites or chemical evidence that your body broke down THC, regardless of what kind.

Delta 8 Benefits to Consider

While there is still a great deal of research to be conducted, we can unpack some potential benefits of delta-8 THC: 

• Appetite Stimulation and Nausea Relief. If you’re looking to increase your appetite, delta-8-THC may be able to help. In a 2004 study, researchers concluded that very low doses caused increased food consumption. On the flip side, in another study, delta-8 THC was successful in helping eight children with various cancers to eliminate nausea and prevent vomiting. 
• Anxiety Relief. While there is still much more to discover, many testimonials report that D8 provides a calm, focused high without anxiety that can come from delta-9 THC. Additionally, it shows the same anxiety-reducing qualities as cannabinoids like CBD or delta-9 THC.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties. Studies show that delta-8 THC can successfully reduce inflammation, just like many other cannabinoids.

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Additionally, delta-8 THC often appeals to those who don't want to experience the potential side effects of delta-9-THC or who don’t react well to it. Side effects like sleep issues, paranoia, and the potential for dependence are mostly avoidable with delta 8. Users generally report less anxiety overall with delta-8 THC compared to delta 9.

Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 THC: What’s the Difference?

At first glance, delta-8 and delta-9 THC are nearly identical. But as we’ve learned, their small differences can lead to some significant variance in their use cases, benefits, and potential health risks.

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Let’s break down the key differences between these two types of THC:

Delta-8 Dosage Tips

Finding the proper dosage takes trial and error and can vary from person to person, but the average typical oral dose for delta-8 THC is 10-40mg. You can use this range as a starting point.

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When it comes to assessing the proper dosage, it's all about understanding your health concerns and the main benefits of taking the compound. It's always a good rule of thumb to start with a smaller dose and add more as needed.

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Delta-9 THC (marijuana) users likely find they need to start with a higher dose (40mg) to feel the effects. Individuals report widely varying effects in comparison to delta-9 THC, which can be based on their individual tolerance, history of usage, or current medical conditions (if any).

Shop Reliable & Quality Delta-8 Products at Green Dragon

Any hemp-derived product, whether it includes delta-8 THC or not, is exempt from the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) oversight. That means it’s up to the consumer to shop for products that are safe, effective, and trustworthy.

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If you’re looking for delta-8 THC, ditch the gas station vape carts or suspicious-looking edibles. Sketchy delta-8 products are a threat to public health and safety, so it’s important to only buy from brands you know and trust. You should also ensure that any product you buy comes with a certificate of analysis (COA) that confirms it’s been tested for potential toxins. 

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But fear not, delta-8 lovers! You can find what you need right here at The Green Dragon CBD. Whether you’re after delta-8 gummies, tinctures, flower, or something else entirely, we’ve got you covered.

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If you still need a little more guidance, we’d love to help! Send us a message through our contact page at any time for a free consultation or to get answers to your questions.