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ToggleWhat is Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC is a compound found in cannabis products that can provide a pleasant ‘high’ as well as some other physical benefits. It has become popular in recent years because it can be derived from hemp, which is legal throughout the entire United States. Delta-8 THC is very similar to ‘traditional’ THC, or delta-9 THC.
Delta-8 THC is a compound found in cannabis and hemp plants. It is very similar to delta-9 THC, which is what most people are referring to when they say ‘THC’. The only difference between the two is the way the chemical bonds are formed. This difference results in delta-8 being less potent than delta-9, but it has many of the same physical effects.
How Are D8 Products Made?
Delta-8 THC naturally occurs in both marijuana and hemp plants, and could be extracted to put into other cannabis-infused products. However, most products on the market that contain delta-8 THC don’t use naturally occurring versions of the compound. Instead, they use synthetic versions of the compound.
Natural or Synthetic?
When shopping for delta-8 THC products, you’ll want to check if they are natural or synthetic. Synthetic delta-8 products are going to be legal throughout the entire country because they are derived from hemp. However, it’s very important to make sure they are developed in a reputable lab. Making these kinds of synthetic chemicals at home can be extremely dangerous, which is why it’s so important to get them from a source you can trust.
When making delta-8 in a lab, manufacturers will actually start with hemp-extracted CBD. You might then be wondering – does delta 8 have THC in it? Because most cannabinoids are very similar in structure, it’s possible to convert one into the other. Although it started off as CBD, the final product is true THC. After the conversion is complete, manufacturers test it and then put it into products like flower, gummies, tinctures, and more.
Delta-8 THC Benefits
There are many delta-8 benefits, which is why this compound has become so popular over the last few years. When comparing delta-8 vs delta-9, the two have many of the same benefits. They can create a high that results in feelings of relaxation and euphoria. They can also help you manage pain and insomnia. However, delta-8 THC is much less potent than delta-9. This means it can be a good option for people who find traditional cannabis products to be too intense.
Can D8 Get You High?
It’s important to be aware of delta-8 THC effects before consuming it. Although it is less potent than delta-9 THC, it can still make you feel high. This high can result in feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and happiness, and can also stimulate your creativity. The sensation of being high can also help you relax your muscles and cause drowsiness. However, it can also cause paranoia and anxiety, and can even have negative effects on your short-term memory. In this sense, D8 THC is similar to traditional D9 THC.
Is Delta-8 THC Safe To Use?
As a compound, delta-8 THC is safe to consume. However, not all delta-8 products are safe, and consumers should be very discerning when shopping for these items. Right now, delta-8 THC manufacturers do not have to go through state and federal cannabis regulations and licensing. This is because the product is technically derived from hemp, not marijuana.
Because delta-8 products aren’t subject to any real oversight or unbiased testing, it’s hard for consumers to know exactly what’s in them. The chemical process of converting CBD into THC could result in contamination if it isn’t done properly, which is one of the reasons why it’s so important to be cautious while shopping. Before purchasing delta-8 THC, be sure to research exactly how the product is made and seek out unbiased reviews from other customers. If you’re in a state where marijuana is legal for recreational use, this is a much safer option. Marijuana products are subject to state oversight, which makes them much safer.
How much THC is in delta-8 products? This will vary depending on the specific product you buy. The higher the concentration of THC, the more intense the product is, so be sure to check this before making a purchase.
As with delta-9 THC, there are some potential side effects of using delta-8 THC regularly, even when it is processed safely. These include increased appetite, anxiety, dry mouth, short-term memory loss, and more.
Is D8 THC Legal?
Because of its similarities to delta-9 THC, many people have understandably wondered – how is delta-8 THC legal? In 2019, the federal government legalized hemp. Because delta-8 THC can be made from hemp, these products are technically legal on a federal level. However, there are many states that have started banning delta-8 THC products because of safety concerns. Right now, there are restrictions on delta-8 in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Kentucky, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, and Washington. Bans are currently pending legislation in five other states.
Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC
Delta-8 THC and delta-9 THC are very similar in structure. They both consist of a chain of carbon atoms with one double bond. However, that double bond is in a different place on delta-8 THC, which is why it is slightly less potent than delta-9 THC. This also means that delta-8 THC takes longer to have a psychoactive effect on the body, which can be much more pleasant for some users.
Where To Buy Delta-8 THC
Because delta-8 THC isn’t regulated or licensed through the government, you won’t find it at dispensaries. However, there are many stores that focus specifically on CBD and delta-8 THC products, and you might be able to find one near you. You also can order delta-8 THC through online retailers, which will give you a much larger selection of options. No matter where you get your delta-8 THC, it’s very important to do your research and make sure the product you are purchasing is safe to use.
If you’re considering using delta-8 THC to treat a medical condition, consider getting your medical marijuana card instead. Medical marijuana is currently legal in 36 states. Elevate Holistics provides affordable and secure online appointments to help you get your medical marijuana card. We work with licensed medical marijuana doctors who can answer any questions you might have about using cannabis for medical purposes.
Patient Resources: Cannabinoids