Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8 THC) is a natural cannabinoid derived from hemp with psychotropic properties, meaning it has the ability to alter mood, behavior, and perception. Delta-9 THC, more commonly referred to as simply THC, is the main psychotropic compound in the cannabis plant. Delta-8 THC has similar effects to Delta-9 THC, but the primary difference is how these cannabinoids interact with your body on a molecular level. The effects produced by Delta-8 THC are more subdued compared to Delta-9 THC.
How does Delta-8 THC Work?
The human body naturally produces cannabinoids which are called endocannabinoids. These compounds work in the endocannabinoid system to maintain homeostasis (balance) by binding with Cannabinoid-1 (CB1) and Cannabinoid-2 (CB2) receptors. Cannabinoids, like Delta-8 THC, can imitate endocannabinoids and bind with the receptors, helping to send signals to the body to improve health and overall balance in the system. For many consumers, Delta-8 THC stimulates feelings of calm clarity and stress-relieving relaxation without interfering with your ability to focus on activities.
What is the difference between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC?
When people refer to THC, they are usually talking about Delta-9 THC despite the multiple types of THC found in the cannabis plant. While Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC are almost identical in chemical structure, there is a slight difference in the bonds they form in your endocannabinoid system. Delta-9 THC is often more potent than Delta-8 THC as a result of this subtle difference. In addition, the amount of time it takes to feel the effects of Delta-8 THC is often longer as Delta-8 works gradually to ease consumers into a more mellow state while Delta-9 affects individuals in a much more rapid and intense manner, according to a Discover magazine article.
What are the effects of Delta-8 THC?
Research on the effects of Delta-8 THC has shown the compound can help reduce anxiety, calm the body's reaction to stress, improve mood and motivation, increase appetite, and assist with aches and pains. Delta-8 THC has some psychotropic effects, meaning it affects one’s mental state similar to Delta-9 THC; however, many individuals have found Delta-8 THC produces effects more in line with focused relaxation and/or calm clarity. Delta-8 THC is a relatively new discovery, so researchers have not yet determined its full potential or effects.
How much Delta-8 should I take?
The amount of Delta-8 THC you choose to take will vary depending on your specific needs and/or desired effects. Delta-8 THC is less potent than Delta-9 THC, so those with cannabis experience should expect a milder effect. We advise starting with the recommended serving size or dosage and gradually increasing or decreasing as needed to achieve your desired effect. Cannabinoids are fat-soluble and interact with phytochemicals such as terpenes, so the food you eat may impact your personal experience. Depending on the form of Delta-8 THC you take, you are likely to feel different effects at different intervals throughout your experience with the product. While vaping provides a more instantaneous reaction, edibles may take up to two hours before you feel the effects.
Is Delta-8 THC legal?
The 2018 Farm Bill confirms all derivatives, isomers, and cannabinoids in hemp are legal. However, all final products must contain 0.3% or less of Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Although there are no current age restrictions from the federal government on hemp-derived products, our company policy states you must be 18 years or older to purchase Delta-8 THC products, and 21 years or older to purchase inhalants or smokables.
Does Delta-8 show up on a drug test?
Delta-8 THC metabolites may trigger many drug tests looking for Delta-9 THC metabolites. As a precaution, you should not take this product if you need to pass a drug test.
How Does Delta-8 THC Interact with CBD?
You can mix Cannabindiol (CBD) and Delta-8 THC. In fact, we recommend it! When multiple cannabinoids are taken together, the behavior of both may be enhanced within the body—a process known as the entourage effect. You may consider full spectrum products or combining Delta-8 THC with other cannabinoids, like CBD, to increase the benefits. At CBD Kratom, we offer a wide range of products that combine Delta-8 THC with other cannabinoids.
How can I find the right product?
Finding the right Delta-8 THC product will depend largely on your needs, wants, and preferences. Delta-8 THC can be taken through various methods including tinctures, edibles, smoking/vaping, and topicals. To find the right Delta-8 THC product for you, take our Find Your Fit quiz.
What are the Different Ways to Take Delta-8?
- Tinctures/Oils: Delta-8 THC oil comes in dropper or gel cap form. This form may help relieve anxiety, pain, sleeplessness, and stress. Apply the correct amount under your tongue with a dropper. Hold the oil in place for a minimum of 60 seconds to allow for absorption through the blood vessels under your tongue. After holding for the allotted time, swallow the Delta-8 THC oil. You will likely begin to feel the effects of an oil or tincture within 10-15 minutes. If you are looking for quick relief, we recommend Delta-8 THC oil/tinctures. Typically, consumers report the effects last for about four to six hours.
- Smokables: Delta-8 THC smokable products come in the form of cartridges, flower, pre-rolls, or concentrates. The Delta-8 THC is consumed through inhalation and absorbed through the lungs and into the bloodstream. With smokable products, you will likely begin to feel the effects and benefits more immediately, usually within 5-10 minutes. These products are another great option for individuals seeking quick relief. While length of effects vary person to person, many consumers report feeling effects for about one to two hours.
- Edibles: Food containing Delta-8 THC are known as edibles. This form introduces Delta-8 THC through the digestive system into the bloodstream. You will likely begin to feel the effects of edibles within 30-60 minutes, making them ideal for managing stress and inflammation. The effects of edibles typically last longer than other Delta-8 THC methods of delivery, about eight to ten hours.
- Beverages: Water-soluble Delta-8 THC can be dissolved into beverages like coffee, tea, smoothies, beer, wine, seltzers, and many other drinks. Through a process called nanoemulsion, water-soluble Delta-8 THC creates fast acting effects by dissolving rapidly through the digestive system into the bloodstream. Beverages containing nanoemulsified Delta-8 THC will usually take effect immediately, and these effects often last for about one to two hours.
How can I find the right product?
Finding the right Delta-8 THC product will depend largely on your needs, wants, and preferences. Delta-8 THC can be taken through various methods including tinctures, edibles, smoking/vaping, and topicals. To find the right Delta-8 THC product for you, take our Find Your Fit quiz.