What is Delta 8 THC?

If you’re curious about cannabinoids but don’t know where to start, you’ve come to the right place! Cannabinoids are compounds naturally found in the cannabis sativa plant and hemp plants, playing a key role in influencing everything from mood to pain relief.

Among these cannabis products, Delta 8 THC has gained considerable attention as an emerging cannabis derived product. It’s a psychoactive substance similar to the well-known Delta 9 THC but with psychoactive and intoxicating effects that tend to be milder and more manageable.

In this guide, we’ll cover what Delta 8 THC is, its relationship to other cannabinoids, the chemical process behind it, its potential therapeutic or medical uses, safety concerns, and its legal status. Let’s dive in.

What is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC is a psychoactive cannabinoid found in very small amounts in the cannabis plant and hemp cannabis raw extracts. It belongs to the family of THC isomers — molecules that share a similar structure but differ slightly.

The primary difference lies in the position of the double bond in its molecular structure: Delta 8 has it on the eighth carbon atom, whereas Delta 9 THC’s bond is on the ninth carbon. This subtle variation causes differences in how Delta 8 THC interacts with the body, specifically with cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system.

Because of this interaction, Delta 8 THC produces psychoactive and intoxicating effects that are generally less potent than those of Delta 9 THC, offering a more mild and relaxing experience without some of the anxiety or paranoia sometimes linked to stronger psychoactive cannabinoids.

How Delta 8 THC Works and Its Benefits

Delta 8 THC binds with cannabinoid receptors, primarily CB1 receptors in the nervous system, influencing mood, appetite, sensory perception, and pain regulation.

Users report several potential benefits including:

• Anxiety relief with fewer adverse reactions compared to Delta 9 THC
• Pain relief and reduced inflammation, which may help those with chronic pain
• Appetite stimulation, beneficial for people with appetite loss due to illness or treatment
• Nausea reduction, often helpful for chemotherapy patients
• Enhanced focus without feeling overly intoxicated

While clinical research and national institutes emphasize the need for more research to confirm these claims, early evidence and anecdotal reports suggest Delta 8’s potential as a useful therapeutic compound.

Safety Concerns and Public Health Issues

Although Delta 8 THC shows promise, there are significant public health concerns related to its production and marketing. Because many Delta 8 products are typically manufactured in uncontrolled or unsanitary settings, they can contain potentially harmful by products, potentially harmful chemicals, or other potentially harmful substances.

These unsafe contaminants arise from the chemical synthesis process used to convert hemp cannabis raw extracts into Delta 8 THC. Exposure to these potentially unsafe household chemicals can cause adverse events such as dry mouth, dizziness, or worse.

National poison control centers, including animal poison control centers and the national poison data system, have reported increases in calls related to Delta 8 THC exposure, highlighting the risks of drug abuse and substance use disorders.

Consumers should be especially cautious about products sold online, in convenience stores, and gas stations, as these are more likely to contain potentially harmful substances or unsafe contaminants. The FDA regulated products guidelines warn consumers against selling unapproved products and unproven treatments that mislead consumers.

Legal Status of Delta 8 THC

Under the Agriculture Improvement Act (2018 Farm Bill), hemp derived products containing less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC are considered legal at the federal level. Because Delta 8 THC is often derived from hemp plants, it generally falls within this legal framework.

However, local laws vary significantly. Several states have enacted bans or restrictions on Delta 8 THC due to safety concerns and adverse event reports.

The federal minimum age requirement applies to the purchase of Delta 8 products, but enforcement and regulations differ widely across the nation.

It’s important to note that Delta 8 THC can cause a positive result on a drug test for THC, potentially complicating employment or legal situations.

Delta 8 THC Products and Responsible Use

Delta 8 THC is available in various forms:

• Gummies and other edibles
• Oils and tinctures
• Vape cartridges
• Capsules

Because potentially harmful chemicals and potentially unsafe household chemicals can be present in poorly manufactured products, consumers should seek products with transparent third-party lab testing.

Starting with a low dose is recommended, especially for those new to cannabinoids, to minimize potential side effects like drowsiness or dry mouth. Individuals with preexisting health conditions or on medications should consult healthcare professionals due to possible interactions.

Conclusion

Delta 8 THC represents an intriguing psychoactive cannabinoid from the cannabis sativa plant, offering potential therapeutic or medical uses with a more tolerable psychoactive and intoxicating effect profile than Delta 9 THC.

However, significant public health concerns and safety concerns around its chemical process and manufacturing highlight the importance of cautious use. Consumers should stay informed about legal status variations and purchase only from reputable sources to avoid unsafe contaminants and potentially harmful by products.

As cannabis research advances and federal and state partners work toward clearer guidelines, Delta 8 THC’s role in wellness and recreation will become better defined.