Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid found within the cannabis plant, much like cannabidiol (CBD) and Delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The most common cannabinoids you hear about are CBD and Delta 9 THC (often referred to as THC) because they are the most abundant in the plant's composition. If you look at the third-party laboratory's report for a full- or broad-spectrum product, you will see that these are only three of over 100 cannabinoids. However, we are focused on Delta 8 THC (
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The Common Cannabinoids
The world changed for cannabinoids when the 2018 Farm Bill was passed. This bill removed the word "hemp" from the definition of marijuana (cannabis) and ultimately removed hemp from being classified as a Schedule 1 substance. Once this classification was removed, cannabinoids could be extracted from hemp and sold, except for one – Delta 9 THC. For hemp, the level of THC found within the extractions has to be under .3% to maintain legality.
To touch briefly on the broader topic, cannabis is illegal on the federal level. Some states have legalized recreational use on the state level, but it is not a federal decision. With that said, there are some states where Delta 9 THC is more readily available, but for our purposes, we are only using it as a comparison.
When the Farm Bill passed, CBD was the first cannabinoid to make a debut in the retail market. Since then, you can't go to any retail location without seeing it on the shelves. Just because it is so readily available doesn't mean that it is a quality product – we will touch on that later.
Psychoactive Properties
CBD has zero psychoactive properties, which is probably why it is a popular choice for so many looking to go about their day after taking a dose of it. On the other end of the spectrum is Delta 9 THC. Delta 9 has the properties that create the feeling of euphoria that may even result in increased anxiety. Everyone reacts differently to THC, so it is hard to determine what the side effects will be for any given person.
Somewhere in the middle of these two extremes exists Delta 8 THC. Delta 8 is a less potent form of Delta 9 THC; the difference between the two THC chemical structures is nothing more than a few molecules. These molecules are the difference between paranoia and clear-headedness.
Can I Legally Use Delta 8 THC?
The future fate of Delta 8 THC has yet to be determined at this time. With the 2018 Farm Bill, all hemp-derived cannabinoids were covered, but a recent addendum may change how Delta 8 is viewed. For now, some states allow the sale and use of Delta 8, but other states do not allow the sale or use. If you have been considering using Delta 8 THC, you should check to see what the regulations are in your state.
Methods of Using Delta 8
If your state allows the use of Delta 8 THC, there are different methods of consumption that are available to you. All of these methods fit into three primary categories for getting the substance into your bloodstream. These methods are inhalation, oral consumption, and topical application.
- Inhalation: Smoking and vaping are forms of inhalation. There are different products available, like infused hemp flower or prerolled joints made with Delta 8 THC that can be smoked. Vape pens that heat cartridges made with Delta 8 are also a popular option. Inhalation is one form of consumption that gets the chemical to the bloodstream faster for quicker onset.
- Oral Consumption: If you are orally consuming something, it means you are taking it by mouth and swallowing. In terms of Delta 8 THC, edibles and tinctures are the most popular form of oral consumption. Edibles are often made into a gummy form, but it can take a lot longer for the onset of the effects to take place when using this method. Tinctures offer a different method of oral use. The liquid is placed under the tongue, also called sublingual absorption. The Delta 8 reaches the bloodstream almost as quickly as if you were smoking it.
- Topical Application: Topical application is when the chemical is mixed into lotions, balms, or roll-on applicators and applied directly to the skin for absorption. There is no psychoactive effect when used in this manner, but claims have been made that direct application such as this can help with discomfort and muscle aches.
Why People Choose Delta 8 THC
Much like the title implies, people choose Delta 8 THC because it does not have the extreme side effects that accompany Delta 9 THC. Even though the research is limited on using this form of THC, there have been some indications that it may help with discomfort, but the FDA has verified none of the claims made by consumers.
So if you are looking to experiment with Delta 8 THC, there is no guarantee about how it will affect you. However, it is safe to say that it will not be the intense feelings that come with traditional THC. The nice thing about most forms of Delta 8 consumption is that you can start low and work yourself up to the recommended dose (or stop at a dosage that is right for you).