But are there any dangers or side effects you should be worried about?
That’s precisely what we’ll cover in this article. We’ll include information about Delta-8 THC from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with other studies that show both benefits and side effects of Delta-8 THC. Keep reading to learn about the industry’s fastest-rising cannabinoid star.
What Is Delta-8
Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, which sometimes appears as Δ8-THC, is a naturally-occurring cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. A derivative of Delta-9, the THC most often found in marijuana, Delta-8 is found in such small traces that, until recently, it wasn’t readily available to the mass market.
Once hemp was legalized in 2018, thanks to the Farm Bill Act, Delta-8 was deemed legal because it’s derived from CBD-based hemp (more on that in a second). While traditional cannabis users experience intense euphoria with most THC, Delta-8 users claim that it provides a more calming and less intense high.
Is Delta-8 Legal?
How Is Delta-8 Extracted?
As discussed, Delta-8 occurs naturally in cannabis. But because it appears in such trace amounts, it’s more efficient to create Delta-8 synthetically.
Delta 8 THC Side Effects
The legal hemp industry, which includes Delta-8, has little oversight. Further complicating issues is the fact that Delta-8 is produced in a lab with potential impurities and additives, including high volumes of THC.
The Centers for Disease Control and the FDA recently released statements warning the public about the potential dangers and side effects of Delta-8. The FDA, for example, stresses that Delta-8 consumers should keep their THC away from pets and children.
The CDC urges anyone suffering from effects of Delta 8 to call their local poison control center for treatment. If you think you might have adverse effects after taking Delta-8, look for the following side effects.
Paranoia
The number one side effect, for some, is paranoia. THC, in some instances, may even cause hallucinations. While it’s essential not to take all your thoughts too seriously (don’t we all suffer from random thoughts), THC may cause a busier than usual mind.
Does Delta-8 Make you Paranoid?
Although studies show that CBD may help with several anxiety symptoms, Delta-8 may activate brain parts differently, causing paranoia. If you experience anxiety frequently, you may want to consider avoiding Delta-8 or starting with the smallest dose possible.
Part of Delta-8 popularity lies in the fact that it’s often considered “diet weed,” meaning you get the benefits (albeit milder) of THC, like euphoria and calmness, without the paranoia or intoxicating effects.
Brain Fog
Another common side effect may be Delta 8 “brain fog”. Although harmless in most cases, some may not welcome a change in their mood or perception. Delta-8 works with your Endocannabinoid System, or ECS, to regulate mood and emotions.
The “Munchies.”
Dry Mouth (Cottonmouth)
Like Delta-9 found in most cannabis’, Delta-8 may cause an unpleasant taste or dryness in your mouth. That’s because THC decreases saliva production. You can minimize “cottonmouth” by chewing gum or sucking on candy, which counters the effects.
Loss of Motor Skills
If you’ve seen medication with a “do not operate heavy machinery while using this,” the same applies to Delta-8. Symptoms of Delta-8 may include loss of motor skills because THC regulates reaction time.
For example, suppose you plan on operating a combine or driving a forklift. In that case, you may want to wait 24 hours after using any THC, including Delta-8.
General Anxiety
Delta-8 is, after all, a form of THC. If you’ve experienced jitters or unease after using weed, an impure or higher than the legal amount of Delta-8 may cause the same unpleasant experience.
Can Delta-8 Cause Panic Attacks?
Unless you take an unusually high dose, you should not get panic attacks from taking Delta-8. It is actually known for its calming effect and generally used for preventing panic situations caused by anxiety.
Nausea
As mentioned, Delta-8, like Delta-9 THC and all other cannabinoids, works with your ECS to regulate virtually every system in your body, including your digestive system.
Can Delta 8 Make You Sick?
Gastrointestinal Discomfort
There has been little evidence of severe stomach issues reported concerning Delta-8 products. Although you may experience nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Some other reports have also shown slight abdominal pain accompanying the side effects.
Dizziness
Delta-8 may cause dizzy spells or lightheadedness because it can lower your blood pressure. If you currently have low blood pressure, consider seeking medical advice before using Delta-8.
How Long Do Delta-8 Side Effects Last?
Most Delta-8 effects last around six hours. You can expect to decrease or increase the amount of time Delta-8 side effects last based on the following:
- Your Weight
- Your Metabolism
- How Often You Use
- How much You Use
The more you use Delta-8, along with a higher dosage, will increase the amount of time the side effects last.
Can Delta-8 Get You Too High?
That’s all relative, as everyone reacts differently to cannabinoids such as THC. Delta-8 won’t give you the intensity or side effects of traditional weed and Delta-9 THC. But if your batch contains impurities, you may have side effects similar to Delta-9.
Is Delta 8 Bad for You?
Delta-8 is generally safe, as long as you use it in moderation. Just like any substance, there may be an addictive quality to it, but we’re still not 100% sure - as Delta-8 is so new to the industry.
Final Word
You can limit side effects by using Delta-8 occasionally as you would for other legal substances, like alcohol. Most of the time, there should be little to no risks involved with using a responsibly sourced Delta-8 extract. Make sure you always buy from a reputable company like EHDelta for safe and reliable products.
*These statements have not been evaluated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any illness. Any medical advice should be taken from a medical professional.
All of the articles on this site are written by 3rd party content providers, expert bloggers, or doctors not directly affiliated with EHDelta.
Individuals should learn the risks and side effects prior to taking any Delta products. Make sure to always check with a medical professional before starting any new Delta treatment or medication that is not FDA-approved.