What is Delta 8 THC?

What is Delta 8 THC?

Delta-8-THC is a minor cannabinoid found in cannabis plants, similar to the more well known Delta-9-THC but with some minor differences on a molecular level. Like Delta-9-THC, which is the part of traditional cannabis usually associated with a “high”, Delta 8 has psychoactive effects when consumed. When compared to traditional cannabis, users of Delta 8 often report slightly more subtle effects that come without any feelings of paranoia that sometimes affect cannabis users.

From a legal perspective, Delta 8 provides a more accessible and affordable pathway to cannabis for millions of users each year while remaining compliant with federal laws that classify Delta 8 products as legal Hemp.

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How is Delta 8 Made?

While Delta 8 can be found in nature, the vast majority of Delta 8 products found in the marketplace are created using Delta 8 that is produced through a controlled conversion process. Common methods of doing this involve converting CBD (cannabidiol) into Delta-8-THC through a chemical process called isomerization. Licensed labs use CBD isolate or CBD-rich cannabis extracts and expose them to acids and catalysts. This acidic environment prompts a rearrangement of the molecular structure, converting CBD into Delta-8-THC.

After this process is completed, labs will remediate any potential residual chemicals or byproducts, and reputable manufacturers should always provide transparent full-panel lab tests.

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Is Delta 8 Legal?

The short answer is yes, Delta 8 is legal. However, it might depend on where you live.

In 2018, the United States government passed the 2018 Farm Bill, which included provisions for defining the differences between illegal Cannabis and legal Hemp. In short, the new laws stated that any cannabis products that contain less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC would now be classified as Federally Compliant Hemp.

Since then, a number of US States have passed their own legislation regarding cannabinoids derived from Hemp, sometimes completely banning them and in other cases, regulating the sale and manufacturing within their jurisdiction.

The laws that regulate Delta 8 are changing rapidly alongside more widespread cannabis use and acceptance. While individual states seek to control markets, the US government and other international groups also continue to evolve the landscape of cannabis products and their availability to the public.

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Where Can I Buy Delta 8?

You can purchase Delta-8-THC products from various sources, but where you live probably plays a big role in where you might find them, if they are even legal there to begin with.

Smoke Shops: In places where there isn’t a well developed recreational cannabis market, you will very likely find several smoke and vape shops. These brick and mortar retailers usually cary a wide range of Delta 8 products.

Dispensaries: In regions where cannabis is legal, dispensaries often carry Delta-8-THC items like vape cartridges, edibles, tinctures, and concentrates as alternatives to traditional Delta 9 Cannabis.

Online Retailers: Many online stores specialize in selling hemp-derived Delta-8-THC products in addition to many other Hemp derived cannabinoids. Always research the company's reputation and product quality before buying online and check for lab tests on the products you’re interested in.

Convenience Stores and Gas Stations: In some markets, Hemp products are so popular that you can find them in just about any gas station or convenience store.

Before making a purchase, always verify the legality of cannabinoid products in your area, and ensure you're buying from a reputable source. It’s often recommended to consult with a medical professional before consuming cannabis products.

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Does Delta 8 Show Up on a Drug Test?

Because Delta 8 THC is a close relative to traditional Delta 9 cannabis, it could definitely cause you to fail a drug test. If the stakes are high, we don’t recommend risking it.

It’s important to note that not all Delta 8 products are created with the same level of quality control, meaning there could be additional cannabinoids present in the product’s base material if high quality methods have not been used.

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Does Delta 8 Get You High?

Yes, Delta 8 Gets you “high”. In most cases, users report an uplifting euphoric feeling very similar to traditional cannabis. The noted differences usually include claims that Delta 8 can be slightly less overwhelming.

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The Future of Delta 8

Like most other cannabinoids, the future of Delta 8 is a little bit unclear. While it’s known that consumer interest and knowledge will continue to grow, the State and Federal regulations for Delta 8 continue to change and evolve.

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