Delta-8 THC is a unique cannabis compound from the same plant as delta-9 THC. It is a psychoactive cannabinoid that offers users special effects.
Taking delta-8 THC can lead to relaxation, euphoria, and pain relief. This cannabinoid is found in many products, including edibles, vape oils, and tinctures.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid that has become increasingly popular because it offers many medicinal and psychoactive benefits without creating an intense high. While it is generally less euphoric than delta-9 THC, Delta 8 can still provide feelings of relaxation, happiness, and pain relief. It also differs from other cannabinoids in that it doesn’t produce the same harsh effects like paranoia and anxiety.
A naturally occurring cannabinoid Delta 8 THC is present in all cannabis species, including marijuana and hemp. The plant produces it through decarboxylation, separating it from other cannabinoids by heating the plant material to its boiling point. Once the cannabinoid is isolated, it can be made into various products, such as gummies and other candy-like edibles.
When consumed, delta-8 THC is processed by the liver in the same way as delta-9 THC. It is, therefore, possible to drink too much of it and experience unpleasant side effects, such as drowsiness or nausea. Delta-8 THC has been reported to cause bloodshot eyes in some consumers, especially when consuming it as a capsule or edible.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is monitoring the growing market for products containing delta-8 THC to ensure they are manufactured safely. The agency is also evaluating reports from consumers and poison control centers regarding these products, including increased cases involving children.
How Does Delta 8 Work?
Delta-8 THC works by attaching to the same receptors as delta-9 THC but can produce a more relaxing and euphoric high. It also offers anti-anxiety effects and pain relief. This can be advantageous for patients who don’t want the paranoia associated with delta-9 THC, making it hard to focus and perform daily tasks.
Delta-8 is produced naturally in trace amounts in the marijuana plant, and it’s also found in hemp plants. However, most delta-8 products are made synthetically from CBD to take advantage of a legal loophole that allows for its sale in many states where cannabis is currently legal. This unregulated process can lead to impurities being introduced into the final product. This is an essential concern because it’s not just delta-8 that could be dangerous—it’s what else might be mixed in with it.
Remember that delta-8 will appear like any other THC-containing substance on a urine drug test. This is because the body breaks down and processes delta-8, producing THC metabolites that can be detected in a urine sample. This isn’t a big deal for most people, but it can be an issue for some teens. Keeping open lines of communication with your teen is an excellent way to help them make wise decisions about their drug use and ensure they get clean and safe medication.
How Does Delta 8 Get You High?
As with most cannabinoids, delta-8 THC gets you high by interacting with your brain and nervous system’s endocannabinoid system. This can have various effects depending on the person and the type of product consumed. For example, Delta 8 THC can increase energy levels, whereas others might feel more relaxed and sleepy. It also may change your perception of pain levels, making you more or less hungry.
Hemp products that contain delta-8 can be bought at convenience stores, gas stations, and even weed or vape shops. They are usually sold as gummies, oils, vaping pens, and edibles. The hemp market is not regulated, meaning these products might be contaminated with heavy metals, mold, and other ingredients from the production process.
The creation of delta-8 THC involves refluxing CBD in an organic solvent such as toluene or hexane with p-toluenesulfonic acid, which helps to close the ring on the molecule. It is then purified by distillation or chromatography to produce a pure delta-8 THC. However, many producers use this alcohol extraction method for other cannabinoids (like CBD or CBN). They might make a mixture that includes other compounds that could have unwanted side effects.
Knowing that too much delta-8 can be dangerous and cause psychoactive and intoxicating effects is essential. It can impair your coordination, and you may experience anxiety or paranoia. It can also lead to a lack of appetite and cause dry mouth, known as cottonmouth. If you take delta-8 THC, you should avoid consuming foods and drinks that can trigger these symptoms.
What Are the Side Effects of Delta 8 THC?
While Delta 8 is less psychoactive than delta-9 THC, it can still confuse and impair coordination. It can also interact with some medications, so you must check with your doctor if you take any prescription drugs before using this compound. It’s also important to note that because Delta 8 is so new, we don’t know much about its long-term effects or risks. So, it’s best to err on caution until more research is done.
The onset of Delta 8 THC is usually fast – within 15 minutes, you should feel the effects starting to kick in. These effects can feel stronger and more cerebral than traditional THC products before settling into a mellow state of relaxation and calmness.
Many people report feeling pain relief and mood elevation from Delta 8 THC. It is also known for promoting feelings of well-being and relief from anxiety. This is why it’s become so popular over the past few years – because it offers a range of benefits without being as potent as traditional THC.
When purchasing Delta-8 THC products, ensure you see a clear breakdown of the cannabinoid content in each product. This way, you can be sure you’re getting the highest quality of cannabis available. Remember that if you’re a new user or it’s been a while since your last use, start with low doses and slowly build up to larger dosages.
