Delta-8 is extremely popular right now. From tinctures and vapes to gummies and other edibles, new Delta-8 products are hitting the market all the time, offering a different and (usually) legal way for cannabis fans to reap the benefits they love about hemp flower, including a high. And while there are potential benefits, there are also possible Delta-8 side effects of which users should be aware to ensure safe dosage.
So, what is Delta-8 THC exactly? Delta-8 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is an extract from the cannabis plant, typically hemp. It is similar to Delta-9 THC, the main compound in traditional marijuana, but with a slightly different chemical structure. Both are cannabinoids that produce a psychoactive "high," though Delta-8 is considered less potent.
We'll answer more questions about Delta-8 below, providing information on Delta-8 benefits, side effects, origins, legality, safety and more.
Table of Contents
What Is Delta-8 Made From?
Many people want to know about the Delta-8 extraction process, asking, "Where does Delta-8 come from?" It is extracted from the cannabis plant, usually hemp flower, where it is present in small amounts. While the specific extraction methods vary between products and brands, most use a CO2 process to obtain the Delta-8 cannabinoids from hemp.
Does Delta-8 Have THC in It?
It's more accurate to say that Delta-8 is THC. Like Delta-9, it is a type of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), both being psychoactive compounds that give users a euphoric high. Delta-8, however, is widely considered to produce a milder high.
What Is Delta-8 CBD? Is That a Thing?
Delta-8 is a type of THC and a cannabinoid, meaning it comes from the cannabis plant. CBD (cannabidiol) is also a cannabinoid, along with one-hundred-plus other compounds, including CBG, CBN and more. So, Delta-8 and CBD are two separate yet related things. Delta-8 can be synthesized from CBD since they have the same atoms.
What Does Delta-8 Do?
Like all cannabinoids, Delta-8 binds to the receptors in the body's endocannabinoid system, which are found in brain cells and the nervous and immune systems. This produces a variety of effects in the body, varying from person to person.
But what you probably want to know is whether or not Delta-8 THC will get you high. In short, yes, you're likely to get high from Delta-8. But again, most users feel that it's a mellower high than traditional Delta-9 THC. And remember that everyone is different, so it's best to keep your dosage low when you first try Delta-8, whether it's a vape or edible.
Potential Delta-8 Benefits
The mild high of Delta-8 THC can have several positive effects on users. Among these potential Delta-8 benefits are:
- A sense of euphoria
- Restful sleep
- Improved relaxation
- Clarity
- Pain relief
- Nausea reduction
- Increased appetite
- Reduced anxiety and depression
While these Delta-8 benefits are quite promising, please note that evidence for them is largely anecdotal. Research by science and medical professionals is still ongoing and has thus far not produced anything conclusive.
Is Delta-8 Safe to Use?
Because there isn't much scientific evidence, it's too soon to make a definitive claim on the safety of Delta-8. The FDA published a list of things to know about the health risks of Delta-8 THC, stating that it received "104 reports of adverse events," including "hallucinations, vomiting, tremor, anxiety, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness," with 55% of these requiring medical intervention.
Other concerns the FDA noted were a lack of evaluation and regulation of Delta-8 products, a concern about the synthetic processes and chemicals used to obtain Delta-8 THC from hemp (and the byproducts thereof) and a risk of exposure to children and pets.
While these are valid concerns, they also don't seem to be life-threatening. Ultimately, individuals will have to decide for themselves whether Delta-8's benefits outweigh the risks — most of which are simply unknown factors.
Possible Delta-8 Side Effects
Possible Delta-8 side effects are similar to those of traditional marijuana, including:
- Anxiety
- Rapid or slowed heart rate
- Lack of coordination
- Eye redness
- Dry mouth
- Decreased reaction time
- Weakened memory
Again, because the market for Delta-8 products is relatively new, there could be additional side effects that are yet unknown.
Is Delta-8 THC Legal?
The federal government does not outlaw Delta-8 THC, but specific laws vary by state. It is completely legal in some states, while others have banned or restricted it. Some states have legislation pending, meaning Delta-8's legal status could change. Please check with your local laws before purchasing or using Delta-8.
How Long Does Delta-8 Stay in Your System?
Because of the lack of research and the differences between products, the amount of time Delta-8 stays in your system can vary. Reports so far seem to suggest the following:
- It takes 30-60 minutes for the effects of Delta-8 to kick in (edibles are slower than vapes).
- The Delta-8 high can last up to five hours.
- Delta-8 can be detected in blood or urine anywhere from two to 30 days after use.
- While unlikely to show on a test, Delta-8 metabolites can remain in your system for 90 days.
Remember that these numbers are broad starting points that have not been verified by science, and numerous factors can impact how long Delta-8 stays in your system. Additionally, for the purposes of testing, note that most drug tests do not discern between different cannabinoids, and even if they do, Chemical and Engineering News claims that Delta-8 THC may contain trace amounts of Delta-9 and Delta-10.
Purchase Delta-8 Products From Free Smoke
So, what is Delta-8? It's a product with a lot of potential. If you think the potential Delta-8 benefits outweigh the risks, Free Smoke has you covered. Check out our selection of Delta-8 products in one of our stores today.
