Among the heap of novelties and new cannabis products currently available, Delta 8 THC is one of the hottest topics. This minor cannabinoid seems to be on the lips of all cannabis connoisseurs and enthusiasts for its similar effects to Delta 9 THC.
According to the 2018 Farm Bill, all products containing more than 0.3% THC contain a scheduled substance and therefore are illegal. However, this law refers specifically to Delta 9 THC. Delta 8 THC is in a gray area since it is not the specific type of THC that this law points out. In addition to this, manufacturers mainly extract Delta 8 THC from completely legal industrial hemp plants or directly from CBD. The result is a product that can get users high, although significantly less potent than the infamous Delta 9, which remains illegal in some states.
According to user reports, the effects of Delta 8, although similar to those of Delta 9, are much more manageable, especially for new users. But, if you've been wondering what exactly Delta 8 THC feels like, you've come to the right place. In the following article, we'll talk about what exactly Delta 8 THC is, where it comes from, and everything you need to know about this increasingly popular cannabinoid.
Key Takeaways
- Delta-8 THC is a minor cannabinoid found in small concentrations.
- Delta-8 THC is most often derived from CBD.
- Delta-8 THC gets you high by interacting with your cannabinoid receptors.
- Delta-8 will get you high, but it’s not as potent as Delta-9 THC.
- According to the 2018 Farm Bill, Delta-8 THC is legal at a federal level.
What Is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 THC or Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol is a psychoactive natural compound derived from cannabis. It is one of the more than 100 cannabinoids that occur naturally in the cannabis plant and an isomer of the infamous THC. Naturally, Delta 8 THC only occurs in small amounts in both marijuana and hemp. Thus, to get Delta 8 THC in large concentrations, manufacturers generally use hemp-derived CBD and apply a process that changes the molecular structure of CBD and transforms it into Delta 8 THC.What Causes a THC High?
The molecular structure of THC is quite similar to that of the brain chemical anandamide. Both anandamide and THC function as neurotransmitters since they send chemical signals between neurons, affecting specific areas that influence movement, coordination, pleasure, memory, thought, sensitivity, and time perception. THC interacts directly with the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors of our endocannabinoid system, a neural communication network that plays a crucial role in the normal functioning of our nervous system. Therefore, altering the functioning of this system produces the characteristic psychotropic effects that THC and its isomers are capable of generating.Is Delta 8 THC Safe?
A simple answer to this question would be a simple yes. Delta 8 THC is safe and, at least in a healthy adult, cannot cause an overdose on its own. However, several factors may affect the safety of Delta 8 THC products and consumers. The FDA does not regulate the hemp market as such. Therefore, some of these products do not go directly through the proper tests and controls necessary to determine their purity. This lack of regulation opens the door to careless or malicious manufacturers launching products of dubious quality. In some cases, these products may contain remaining contaminants from the manufacturing process, such as pesticides, heavy metals, mold, or residual chemicals. For this reason, we recommend users always verify third-party laboratory tests on the label of the Delta 8 THC products they buy before consuming them. In this way, you confirm that you have a safe, free of contaminants and high-quality product in your hands.Delta 8 Side Effects
Since Delta 8 THC is still an isomer of THC, it can generate similar effects that may be uncomfortable for some users, especially those who don’t enjoy the intoxicating effects of Delta 9 THC. Some of the side effects that Delta 8 THC can cause in these people are:- Impaired coordination and thinking
- Auditory or visual hallucinations
- Feeling of anxiety, fear, or even panic
- Irrational thoughts
- A sensation that you are not yourself
- Increased heart rate
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
How Does Delta 8 Make You Feel?
The significantly milder effects of Delta 8 THC compared to regular THC can feel like a buoyant and uplifting sensation that helps to promote a smooth and relaxed, calm state of mind. Even relatively high doses of this cannabinoid are unlikely to get you glued to the couch. On the contrary, you will find yourself being able to perform your daily tasks and even have better energy and focus, increasing your overall productivity.Delta 8 Effects
In summary, we can say that Delta 8 THC is like a gentler and more manageable version of the well-known Delta 9. Some of the effects you can expect to experience when consuming Delta 8 THC are:- Light cerebral high
- Increased body awareness
- Tranquility
- Uplifting mood
- Relaxation
- Dreamy introspection
- Mild euphoria