The world is now quite familiar with CBD products. Although more research is needed to confirm some aspects of the compound scientifically, anecdotal evidence suggests that it’s had a broadly beneficial impact on consumer’s health. It seems Delta-8 THC is following a similar path, it is already on the market in many places and provided consumers with a little of the plant’s euphoric effects. So what’s the difference between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC?
Delta 8 Vs Delta 9 THC
The cannabis plant is complex and multi-faceted. It is also known as hemp, although this term is mostly used for non-consumable materials extracted from the plant. Hemp is used to create clothing, cosmetics, and oil. But cannabis can also be consumed and has several beneficial properties.
There are two chemical components in cannabis, CBD and THC. CBD refers to cannabidiol and THC is tetrahydrocannabinol. CBD has anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties, while THC provides a euphoric feeling and hallucination effects. But the THC properties can be further subdivided.
Both Delta-8 and Delta-9 are chemically very similar, but Delta-9 is the most common component found in the plant and is what people refer to when talking about THC. Despite their similarities they bind to the endocannabinoid system in slightly different ways, making Delta-8 far less potent.
The Effects of Delta-8 THC
Since Delta-8 is much less potent than Delta-9 THC it is legal in some places. Consuming a Delta-8 product will deliver a similar effect to Delta-9 THC but at a far lower potency. If you want the euphoric effects of cannabis, Delta-8 could be a legal way of getting it.
The effects of Delta-8 products will be similar to conventional cannabis, you may experience mild euphoria, happiness, uplifting feelings, and relief from pain, you may also experience a dry mouth, red eyes, the munchies, and short-term memory loss.
Before consuming a Delta-8 product it’s important to remember that the effects are very similar to conventional cannabis and more research is needed to understand the extent of its effects on the mind and body and its implications.
Is Delta-8 Vs CBD
Although you may see these products sold next to each other Delta-8 THC and CBD products are very different. Delta-8 THC has more in common with Delta-9 THC. They bind differently to the brain’s endocannabinoid system and produce different effects.
CBD products have a range of health benefits for consumers, it can reduce inflammation in the body, lower stress and anxiety levels, and improve fitness recovery times. But CBD will not give the consumer any euphoric effects or feelings.
Delta-8 THC on the other hand will give you effects very similar to conventional cannabis but with a reduced potency. You will experience a mild high along with an increase in creative and reflective thinking. Delta-8, like Delta-9 THC can also increase anxiety levels.
How to Dose Delta-8
If you are a moderate cannabis user you will find Delta-8 to be particularly weak, it is typically about half as strong as Delta-9 THC. On the other hand, if you’re new to cannabis, the Delta-8 THC might affect you strongly.
Much of it depends on your body chemistry and your experience with THC; still, there are sensible and responsible ways to dose the products so you don’t feel overwhelmed by the experience. Delta-8 normally comes in 25mg gummies, so half of one equates to 12.5 mg.
For less experienced consumers it’s best to start with a low dosage and monitor the effects. Starting too high could cause unpredictable effects that might put you off or create an adverse response. It’s best to start low initially.
Is Delta-8 Legal?
At present, few states deal with Delta-8 THC directly. When they make their state laws surrounding cannabis use they refer to cannabis and all its components including CBD, THC, Delta-8 and Delta-9. However, Delta-8 exists in a legal grey area.
Delta-8 is derived from the hemp plant. The hemp plant is still a cannabis plant but it contains less than 0.3% THC. Hemp is also grown legally in the states and has a range of uses. States that outlaw cannabis may not outlaw hemp, making Delta-8 technically legal.
Delta-8 is currently under review in some states while in others it is certified legal. You can check with your local state authority if you have reservations about buying or using the product in your local area.
How to Source Delta-8
Delta-8 THC is relatively new to the market, but like CBD the way it is sourced makes a big difference to its overall quality. The hemp plant is a bioaccumulator, this means that it absorbs whatever is in the soil around it. This could be nutrients, or it could be pollutants.
For this reason it is very important where and how the hemp plant is grown. Fortunately, there are many government sanctioned hemp farms in the US that produce high quality hemp for CBD and THC products.
Before buying your cannabis products check to see where the hemp is grown and if the product has been quality tested. Products that contain poor quality hemp might be less effective or damaging to your health. If you are looking to buy delta 8 online, be sure to check out the Delta 8 THC category page at Apotheca. Our online store has the best selection of premium delta 8 for sale.
Delta-8 Products
Like CBD products, Delta-9 THC comes in a wide array of consumables. You can experience the effects of D8 THC through vaping cartridges, gummies and edibles, topicals, capsules, and much more.
A typical D8 THC product will contain around 25 mg of D8, but that doesn’t mean you have to consume that much. If you half the product you half the quantity or D8 making it easier for you to assess the effects of the Delta-8. If you are interested in purchasing Delta 8
Conclusion
According to many people THC means one thing, the euphoric effects of cannabis, but it can be subdivided into Delta-9 and Delta-8 THC. Delta-9 THC is the conventional THC potency, but Delta-8 is much lower, around half as potent. This is because of how it binds to the endocannabinoid system. Some people benefit greatly from the effects of the Delta-8 compound which is now available in a range of consumable products.
