The now hugely popular delta 8 is actually a cannabinoid. Considered the new “diet weed” because of its reported mild “high,” delta 8 extract is now sold online and at select retail outlets.
Because of its high demand, retailers and government agencies are rushing to educate consumers on its effects, legality, and safety profile. We’ve compiled a brief overview, backed up by FDA guidelines and one of the most significant studies on what it feels like to take delta 8 extract.
Keep reading to find out; delta 8 what is it?
What Is Delta-8 THC?
So, what is delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (delta 8 thc)? The most straightforward explanation for whats delta 8 is that it’s a mild or “lite high” version of standard cannabis. According to the National Cancer Institute’s drug database, delta 8 extract may offer the following benefits:
Analgesic (pain-reliever)
Antiemetic (prevents nausea)
Anxiolytic (reduces anxiety)
Neuroprotective properties
Stimulates appetite
How Does Delta-8 Work?
When ingested, delta-8 works by interacting with your ECS or Endocannabinoid system, a complex physiological system responsible for regulating almost all mind and bodily functions. After consumption, tetrahydrocannabinol delta 8 (Delta 8 THC) binds to your ECS thru the cannabinoid receptor CB1.
Located in your central nervous system, the CB1 receptor may offer the following benefits when activated by delta-8.
So what’s delta 8 specifically mean? Short for delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol, delta-8 has become enormously popular here in the U.S. After the passage of the Farm Bill Act in 2018, cannabis became categorized into two classes:
Industrial Hemp: A variety of cannabis that contains the entire cannabinoid spectrum, including delta 8. Because of its low THC content, it’s legal if it contains less than 0.3%.
Marijuana: Much more well known, marijuana is similar to hemp, except that it’s much stronger from a psychedelic perspective. Legality varies state by state.
Is Delta 8 THC?
Yes. Delta-8 is short for delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol (delta 8 THC). Traditional cannabis, or weed, usually contains delta 9 - a potent form of THC. Delta can be extracted naturally, but it’s much easier to create it from CBGA.
All cannabinoids, like delta 8, delta 9, and CBD, start out as CBGA (cannabigerol acid). Known as the “mother cannabinoid,” CBGA is easily manipulated in a lab setting and can be isolated to produce delta 8 extract.
Is Delta 8 CBD?
While the finished product is not CBD, delta 8 must first be converted into 98% pure CBD isolates from hemp extract. After intense filtration, which removes terpenes and other cannabinoids, a solvent is added to the mixture.
A word of caution, when buying delta 8; use high-quality manufacturers that back up their product with a certificate of analysis.
Is Delta 8 Psychedelic?
Yes - you will get high. According to the Food and Drug Administration, delta-8 has intoxicating properties. According to a 2018 study, delta-8-THC provides you with a “mild high: without the paranoia or other unpleasant side effects. What delta 8 does is give you a relaxed, moderate-high.
521 participants were given both delta-9 and delta-8 THC and asked to respond through an online forum. Over 70% experienced deep relaxation with delta 8 vs. delta 9. In addition, 74% reported no anxiety, and over 80% said no paranoia.
Is Delta 8 Legal?
Yes, although the DEA has issued confusing statements about its legality. But the Farm Bill Act overrides their statements, thus making delta 8 legal for now. No government agency has outright legalized delta 8, but there is room for future bans.
Delta 8 Legal Facts
Delta 8 is legal federally, but legality varies by state.
Recreationally legal in 16 states.
Delta 8 is extracted from industrial hemp, which is legal in all 50 states.
All Hemp-based products are legal in all 50 states.
As long as hemp-derived products contain less than 0.3% THC, they’re legal.
Any hemp-based product over 0.3% THC is classified as marijuana.
Potentially the same pain relief without unwanted “extreme high.”
Potentially less paranoia and altered feelings.
Less cognitive interference (brain fog).
Is Delta-8 THC Safe?
It’s still too early to tell what delta-8 THC may do to you in the long term. What delta 8 lacks is research. No studies have been conducted, but the FDA issues caution when using.
Side effects of delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol may include:
Laziness
Insomnia
Elevated blood pressure
Delta 8 Facts
Some key delta 8 facts include:
Delta 8 makes you high but is milder than delta-9.
Caution is urged when purchasing.
Keep away from children and pets.
Only buy from reputable vendors.
Delta-8 is legal.
Delta 8 is not approved by the FDA.
Key takeaways: Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol
Hopefully this article has clarified your delta 8 definition so that you can purchase your first products without fear!
Even though delta 8 is hugely popular, it’s still relatively new to the market - meaning we still aren’t 100% sure of its side effects. Caution should be used when purchasing delta 8 as harmful chemicals may be added in the manufacturing process.
Additionally, manufacturers may often have trouble separating delta 9 from delta 8 in the extraction process - meaning you may inadvertently get more of a high than you bargained for.
*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.
Delta 8 Facts