You’ve probably heard of Delta 8 THC by now if you so much as dabble in cannabis. And, those who indulge in Delta 8 THC cannot stop raving about its effects, which’re more unique from other cannabinoids than you might give them credit for. Now, because there’s still a lot of misinformation out there about this cannabinoid, we can’t help but to clear some important things up here. This Delta 8 guide is gonna cover all of your bases, helping you understand where the cannabinoid comes from, what it does, and how to score only premium Delta 8 products to enjoy it to the level that you deserve.
What in the World is Delta 8 THC?
Let’s get down to the basics. Delta 8 THC is the catchier name for “Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol”, a cannabinoid that naturally exists in the cannabis plant – more specifically, the flowering buds of the female cannabis plant – but in really trace amounts (0.1%, give or take). Plus, Delta 8 THC has a closer relationship to Delta 9 THC than you may think. Basically, when the cannabis plant’s flowers age, some of the Delta 9 THC oxidizes, and this process means that it takes on new properties – so new that it becomes a brand new cannabinoid entirely, called Delta 8 THC.
You see, cannabinoids are compounds unique to the cannabis plant. The plant’s buds contain over 100 unique cannabinoids, including Delta 8, Delta 9 THC, CBD, CBN, CBG, THCV, and so on. Each one of these compounds interacts with our endocannabinoid system (ECS) in a unique way, attaching to different cannabinoid receptors (CB receptors) found throughout the body (but mainly in the nervous system) at different rates. To put it in basic terms: Delta 8 THC affects us differently from Delta 9 THC. Why? Well, because the oxidization process changes the chemical properties of the compound; sorta like trimming a puzzle piece so that it fits into a different part of the puzzle.
Now, Delta 8 seems pretty new to the market, and that’s because it is, seeing how it has only really been around for the last handful of years. But it was actually discovered several decades ago, so it’s not like scientists have only just found out about it. And, that’s a good thing, because it means that we actually have a lot of knowledge about its effects, its safety profile, and so on.
Delta 8 THC was first discovered in the 1940s. It was identified by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, an Israeli chemist, along with his colleagues, who are renowned for their pioneering work in cannabis research. Dr. Mechoulam’s team isolated Delta 8 THC, as well as Delta 9 THC (the more well-known psychoactive component of cannabis), in the early 1960s. The work of Dr. Mechoulam significantly advanced the scientific understanding of cannabinoids and their effects.
What Kinds of Effects Do You Get from Delta 8 THC?
Moving on to the fun part, those unique Delta 8 THC effects. Of course, its claim to fame is that it’s psychoactive, meaning a lot of people use it recreationally. To get more specific, Delta 8 THC is 30% milder than Delta 9 THC, which makes sense now that you know that Delta 8 is basically “aged” Delta 9. People call Delta 8 “weed lite” for a reason, as longtime enthusiasts notice that the high is more like a buzz. If you’re a total cannabis newbie though, it can still give you strong effects since your tolerance is a factor, so keep that in mind before you go nuts with the first Delta 8 product you purchase.
Not only that, but it’s a super mellow kind of buzz, and that’s a big factor in its popularity. Expect soothing vibes that feel really “indica-like”, as people say that it creates a feeling of tranquility and bliss that’s incomparable. Taking that into account, it might be a good cannabinoid to partake in during the later hours, since it can make you feel like cozying up and taking a nap.
Is Delta 8 THC “Safe”?
We get that some people will wonder if Delta 8 is safe before they actually try it. And so, we’re thrilled to say that Delta 8 THC isn’t associated with any more risks or side effects than any other component of the plant. As most of us already know, cannabis is nontoxic, so that’s good news.
Still, there are always some side effects that you can get from cannabinoids, and thankfully, they’re considered to be mild and short-lived. These side effects generally wear off after a couple hours at most, and almost never require any form of medical attention. They include:
- Dizziness
- Paranoia/anxiety
- Increased heartbeat
- Low blood pressure
- Cottonmouth
- Bloodshot eyes
- Impairment
- Forgetfulness
Still, considering all of that, we do want to mention that driving after taking Delta 8 THC is dangerous, and illegal, too. Driving under the influence of any intoxicant, including legal ones, is strictly prohibited by law.
Is Delta 8 THC Even Legal?
Here’s where things get tricky. Delta 8 THC is federally legal, because it complies with the Farm Bill that passed in 2018. Essentially, the Farm Bill legalized the hemp plant and all of its derivatives, as long as no product contains more than 0.3% Delta 9 THC by dry weight. So, Delta 8 THC can be sold without any limitations, because Delta 8 isn’t the same as Delta 9.
But, while Delta 8 THC may be legal from a federal standpoint, that doesn’t mean that every state is necessarily keen on it. In fact, a number of states have banned Delta 8, along with every other intoxicating cannabinoid, which means that if you live in one of those states, you cannot legally purchase this cannabinoid in any capacity.
Could Delta 8 THC Cause a Failed Drug Test Result?
Yes, Delta 8 THC can cause a failed drug test result. Although Delta 8 THC is chemically different from Delta 9 THC, most drug tests aren’t specific enough to distinguish between the two. Both compounds can metabolize into similar THC metabolites, which are what drug tests typically screen for. Therefore, consuming Delta 8 THC can lead to a positive test result for THC, causing a failed drug test. If you’re subject to drug testing, it’s important to be aware of this potential outcome.
What are Some Awesome Ways to Enjoy Delta 8 THC’s Effects?
Now that you know the deal on Delta 8 THC, let’s talk about products you can try. The products we’re about to describe contain what’s known as Delta 8 distillate. This is just a pure Delta 8 extract, which’s created by a process called “isomerization”. CBD and Delta 8 are isomers of each other, which means rearranging the molecules of isolated CBD converts it into Delta 8. The D8 extract then undergoes a purification process through steam distillation, in order to offer an almost 100% pure liquid extract that can be added to other ingredients to produce any one of the formulas below:
- Delta 8 Vapes: Most popular way to take Delta 8 THC, and you can opt for bottled e-liquids, pre-filled vape cartridges, or AIO (All-In-One) disposable vape pens – whichever you prefer. Delta 8 vapes combine the distillate of delta 8 THC with terpene extracts (usually live resin or “dry resin”), and also come in a huge selection of strains. The effects of vaping can be felt within minutes but only last for an hour or two at max.
- Delta 8 Flower: These are hemp flower buds infused with Delta 8 distillate, and they come in pre-roll or loose buds form. You can also find Delta 8 moonrocks (rolled in kief). Like vapes, Delta 8 flower comes in tons, and we mean tons of strains. When smoked (using a pipe or bong) or vaped (desktop or portable herbal vaporizer), the effects can also be felt within minutes, but only lasting for an hour or two at most.
- Delta 8 Tinctures: These are taken sublingually – that means below the tongue. Tinctures come in various milligram strengths, as well as flavored and non-flavored (natural) options. The effects take about 30 minutes to “kick in” and last for several hours.
- Delta 8 Edibles: Take effect within 30-45 minutes and supply long-lasting effects – think 8 hours or so. They are formulated to appeal to the taste buds. Edibles are a popular way to consume Delta 8 THC due to being discreet, easy to dose, and masking the natural taste of cannabinoids. Delta 8 edibles are divided into two main types:
- Confectionaries: Gummies, candies, chocolates, and mints.
- Baked Goods: Cookies, brownies, cakes, and muffins.
- Delta 8 Drinks: Drinkable products like teas, coffee, beverages (sodas, seltzers, etc.), shots, and even liquid syrups are absorbed fast, since they’re water-soluble, and even offer a refreshing way to get in that Delta 8 THC fix. Drinks take effect within 30-45 minutes and supply long-lasting effects at up to or around 8 hours on average.
- Delta 8 Concentrates: Wax, shatter, badder, etc. are extremely potent since they’re highly concentrated. They have to be dabbed (vaped in a dabbing device) to reach high temperatures that allow them to melt quickly, thus producing vapor. Effects in turns of how fast they “kick in” and duration pretty much are on par with vapes.
- Delta 8 Capsules: Aren’t as popular, but they’re out there on the hemp marketplace. They provide a way to take delta 8 THC that’s similar to a supplement. They take just a bit longer than edibles to kick in, and the effects for how long they last are typically on par with edible-based goods. However, the effects usually aren’t as strong compared to edibles.
- Delta 8 Topicals: These topicals are typically designed for external use and may include creams, lotions, balms, and slaves. When applied topically, Delta 8 THC is absorbed through the skin, interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the local area.
If you wanna try some of these impressive delta 8 products above, look to a company that carries hemp products exclusively. Never buy a product before looking at reviews and third-party lab reports, as these give you objective info about the purity, potency, safety, and chemical composition of that said product.
Delta 8 THC is an Amazing Cannabinoid That’s Worth Exploring!
You don’t want to sleep on Delta 8 THC, especially if you’re into a mellower, milder kind of effect. This cannabinoid has become one of the most sought-after of all-time for a reason. And as you can see, it comes in loads of product types and strains to explore, so that you can find what suits your needs. If you’re ready to dive into the world of Delta 8, check out the products at Goo’d Extracts, where we carry only lab-tested, pure, and super effective delta 8 THC formulas.
