Thanks to the Farm Bill Act, delta 8 is legal - for now. That’s because it’s sourced from hemp - the low THC (0.3%) strain of cannabis.
This post will review what a delta 8 experience feels like, its side effects, and what you can expect to feel after taking this ‘lite’ version of THC. Keep reading to learn more.
Delta 8 Feeling
If you’re reading this, you’re probably familiar with marijuana and some of its effects, such as the “munchies.”
Most importantly, THC affects your sensory perceptions, affecting our sense of sound, time, and many other stimuli. Music, for example, is often perceived differently, enhancing both qualities of performance and listening.
What Does Being High Feel Like Delta 8?
- 521 participants reported back the following results on delta 8 high:
- 71% reported a “great deal of relaxation.”
- 68% reported euphoric feelings.
- 55% reported pain relief.
- 81% Difficulty concentrating
- 80% Short-term memory issues.
- 74% reported no anxiety.
- 83% reported no paranoia.
The report concluded that delta 8 provides many of the qualities of delta 9 without the drawbacks, such as paranoia and fear.
So, What Is Delta 9 vs. Delta 8?
Delta 9 is essentially weed you’ve traditionally been accustomed to. It’s still considered a controlled substance, except in a few states that allow it for medical and recreational use. Delta 9 THC is one of over 100 cannabinoids in the cannabis plant - just like CBD and delta 8.
Delta 9 requires no extraction, while delta 8 is extracted synthetically. Even though delta 8 is a naturally occurring compound, it’s far easier to create it synthetically than extract it naturally. To recap:
- Delta 9 THC is potent and naturally found in marijuana
- Delta 8 THC is created synthetically and is half as strong.
How High Does Delta 8 Get You?
- 10-20mg Dose: Good for newbies; comparable to coffee. Provides energy.
- 25-50mg Dose: Good middle ground for most. Provides euphoria.
- 60mg and up: Not recommended for most. Possible intense high.
Does Delta 8 Get You High Like THC?
Depending on the strength of your THC will determine how “high” you get. Both delta 8 and delta 9 are THC compounds. The only difference is that delta 8 is structurally located on the 8th carbon chain. In contrast, delta 9 is on, you guessed it, the 9th carbon chain.
This structural difference, however, plays a role in how your Endocannabinoid System, or ECS, processes THC. The ECS is a complex system that regulates all your vital organs and cognitive functions. When you ingest cannabinoids, like THC, your CB receptors interpret those compounds and provide “information” to your ECS - thus providing its effects.
How Strong Is Delta 8?
As mentioned, delta 8 is about half as substantial as delta 9 - the traditional form of THC. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive component in cannabis. One of over 100 cannabinoids in cannabis, THC can be found naturally or synthetically.
Because delta 8 is so new, we need to better research its effects. So far, however, most users interviewed say delta 8 is much weaker than regular THC. One word of caution: delta 8 is not regulated by the FDA, so be careful where you buy it.
Is Delta 8 THC Stronger Than Delta 9?
Does Delta 8 Cause Euphoria?
When we speak of euphoria, we’re talking about feeling good (without many of the drawbacks). In a nutshell, yes, reputable, high-quality delta 8 products will leave you with a euphoric feeling. Some examples include the following:
- Clear-headed feeling
- Positive introspection
- Calmness
- Restful
- Heightened learning
- Dream-like state
Side Effects
Because there’s no regulation, you may, for example, wind up with a “bad batch” of delta 8 - meaning you’re not getting what you paid for. For the most part, Delta 8 is created synthetically, which means unwanted chemicals may wind up in your product.
You may also have a product containing way more than the legal limit of 0.3% THC. The FDA has reported an uptick in adverse side effects, including the following:
- Loss of consciousness
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
Can I Have A Delta 8 Bad Trip?
Yes, potentially. The national poison control center received 2,362 delta 8 complaints between January 1, 2021, and February 28, 2022.
Many of these complaints were a result of leaving delta 8 around children under the age of eighteen. To avoid a bad trip, buy from reputable vendors and keep your delta 8 away from pets and children.
Key Points: Delta 8 High
Bottom line: can you get high on delta 8? Yes - but not the same buzz you’d feel from traditional weed like marijuana. Delta 8 gets you high. For most, you’ll feel euphoric without the intense buzz. You can also expect much milder side effects, such as less paranoia and anxiety.
For best results, consider buying high-quality delta 8 and stick to under 50mg.
*These statements have not been evaluated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat cure or prevent any diseases 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.