Before digging deeper into what Delta 8 edibles are, it might be helpful to learn more about Delta 8. You may have heard it referred to as D8, THC lite, or even simply delta 8, and, if you are interested in hemp-derived cannabinoids, chances are you’re hearing these names a lot. Delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has stepped in line with the likes of CBD (cannabidiol) when it comes to popular hemp cannabinoids.
Whether you’re curious about the psychoactive effects of delta 8 or just have questions, delta 8 THC is one cannabinoid you won’t be disappointed to know. Your ultimate guide to delta 8 THC is covered below.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Hemp, which is a type of cannabis that naturally contains low levels of THC, contains more than 100 unique cannabinoids. Delta 8 THC is one of those cannabinoids. Even though delta 8 exists in lower concentrations in hemp, other cannabinoids like CBD can be further processed with heat and solvents to synthesize more delta 8 THC.
Unlike CBD, delta 8 THC is considered a psychoactive cannabinoid, even though its effects are not quite as profound as delta 9 THC. Therefore, it is more similar in both form and effects to delta 9 THC than it is CBD. For this reason, delta 8 products have grown to be a promising alternative to delta 9 products.
What are Delta 8 edibles?
Delta 8 edibles are edibles that have been infused with delta 8 extracts. Most often, the edibles will offer small portions of a certain food or candy that has a premeasured dose of delta 8 included. A lot of people enjoy the convenience of edibles, as they make it easier to consume a more precise dose than something like a delta 8 vape.
Types of Delta 8 Edibles
Without question, delta 8 gummies are the most prevalent type of delta 8 edible you will find available. However, delta 8 is making its way into a long list of other edible products beyond gummies, such as:
- Chocolate
- Baked goods
- Drinks
- Softgels and capsules
- Mints or hard candy
The Effects of Delta 8 THC
Delta 8 interacts with the cannabinoid receptors that make up the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in a similar way as delta 9 THC. The ECS is a unique system in the human body. The actions of delta 8 have not been extensively studied, but it is assumed to be the direct affinity for certain receptors that makes this cannabinoid produce a state of euphoria like delta 9 THC. However, delta 8 edibles are also not as potent and the effects may be shorter-lived than delta 9 THC.
When you consume delta 8 edibles, you may experience a range of effects. Most people do report feelings of euphoria, but the “high” is less dramatic than what you would experience with delta 9. Therefore, you may feel a little lifted but still equipped to get on with the rest of your day without feeling completely disoriented or locked to the couch.
It should be noted that because delta 8 is a psychoactive cannabinoid, it should be used responsibly. Much like delta 9, the cannabinoid may affect things like reaction times and levels of alertness. So, it is best to use delta 8 when you plan to be tucked away safely at home.
Potential Therapeutic Benefits of Delta 8 THC
While the mention of “THC” of any kind is most often associated with the telltale euphoria produced, delta 8 may also offer therapeutic benefits as well. The National Cancer Institute offers some explanation as to the potential therapeutic actions of delta 8, which include:
- Deterring nausea
- Stimulating appetite
- Possibly helping with pain
- Deterring emotional stress
- Supporting the neural system
It should be noted, however, delta 8 has not been extensively studied just yet. So, there is a lot about the benefits of delta 8 that may be yet to be discovered.
A Closer Look at Delta 8 FAQs
How much delta 8 THC should I take?
How much delta 8 you will need to experience the desired effects will vary depending on several factors, including why you are taking delta 8. If you are not familiar with using any type of THC, it is best to start with delta 8 edibles of a lower dose, see how that affects you, and then adjust from there. Be conservative and wait an appropriate amount of time between edible doses, as edibles may take an hour or two to reach their full effects.
Is Delta 8 THC legal?
The legality of delta 8 is a little more complicated than with most hemp-derived cannabinoids. In 2018, the federal government passed a new Farm Bill, which essentially made hemp products legal as long as they contain less than 0.3 percent delta 9 THC.
Because delta 8 is derived from hemp and is not the same cannabinoid as delta 9, this theoretically should mean delta 8 products are federally legal. However, Some states have specifically outlawed delta 8, such as Arizona, Colorado, and New York.
Is Delta 8 THC safe?
Delta 8 is a cannabinoid, and pretty much all cannabinoids are generally safe when they are used responsibly and purchased from a reputable company. Of course, consuming delta edibles 8 is unique in the fact that it is psychoactive. Therefore, it should be treated with a little more caution to ensure you don’t use too much and experience unwanted side effects. Much like delta 9 THC, some of those negative side effects would include paranoia or excessive sleepiness.
What Is Delta 8? Another Impressive Cannabinoid
In the end, delta 8 THC is just one more cannabinoid found in hemp that is likely to make quite a name for itself. If your curiosity is piqued by delta 8 THC, hopefully, we’ve answered a few of the questions you have about this impressive cannabinoid. As you look for the est delta 8 THC products, be sure to trust only suppliers that are upfront about their extraction processes, offer a look at third-party lab testing results, and strive to deliver reliable products.
