You are probably aware of Cannabis Sativa. It is the plant where hemp and marijuana come from. The plant species has made its way into medical research. It comprises over 100 cannabinoids, such as CBD, Delta 8 THC, Delta 9 THC, and more.
Delta 8 THC is among the most popular cannabinoids. It is a less potent version of Delta 9 THC, the psychoactive compound that creates a high but is chemically similar to D9. Delta 9 THC undergoes a natural chemical process and degrades over time, turning into D8. So, D8 has a longer shelf life than D9.
Delta 8 THC forms in trace amounts (approximately 1%) in cannabis plants. Farmers need to harvest massive amounts of hemp flowers, and manufacturers chemically extract and condense the THC in various products, such as edibles, tinctures, smokables, etc.
Does Delta-8 THC Get You High?
Delta 8 THC is intoxicating, just like Delta 9 THC. Since it contains THC, it binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). However, it predominantly binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system and may not leave an impact as Delta 9.
Users report that ingesting D8 helps reduce anxiety and stress, clearing the mind and increasing focus, unlike the intense high of D9. Ongoing research suggests that D8 may help the body produce neurotransmitters responsible for arousal, cognition, memory, and neuroplasticity.
Researchers are trying to discover the best ways to cultivate and extract Delta 8 THC for medicinal use. Let’s look at how it may boost your everyday activities.
What are the Benefits of Delta 8 THC?
A Smooth Psychoactive Experience:
We will start with the typical usage of Delta 8 THC. Most recreational users prefer it because of its intoxicating properties. While CBD has similar benefits to D8, it does not create a high. So, they choose D8 instead.
As we mentioned earlier, Delta 9 THC is chemically similar to Delta 8 THC but is highly potent. Some people are reactive to the intense high and get anxious or paranoid. So, they select D8 for focus and relaxation.
Relaxation:
According to the National Cancer Institute (NIH), Delta 8 THC has anxiolytic effects. Hence, it works as a drug to reduce anxiety. It binds to the brain’s CB1 receptors, which vitally affects the regulation of intoxication. Delta 8 THC’s less affinity with CB1 receptors makes it effective at mitigating anxiety and helping relax.
D8 is also effective in soothing tense muscles, allowing the body to unwind. It does not induce lethargy, letting the user perform daily tasks without feeling lazy. Additionally, Its mellow high has sedating effects that benefit insomniacs.
Improved Appetite:
One of the most sought-after benefits of Delta 8 THC is its ability to boost appetite. It may be more potent than D9 in appetite stimulation. Those who want cannabis for their appetite will find this compound beneficial even if they have one dose daily.
Pain Relief:
Delta 8 THC is a means of relieving pain. Topicals containing Delta 8 THC mitigate inflammation and chronic pain. These are usual problems people with Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and neuropathy suffer.
THC’s anti-inflammatory properties regulate the hormones and neurons connected to pain transmission. So, it can perhaps be favorable for them.
Is Delta 8 THC Legal?
The 2018 Farm Bill made hemp legal in the US, and Delta 8 THC comes from hemp. The bill states that farmers can grow hemp legally if it contains less than 0.3% THC. Many experts only consider Delta 9 THC as THC. So, Delta 8 gained legal status, opening the market for sellers and buyers. However, the law continues to scrutinize it and may make revisions to its provisions.
Is Delta 8 THC Synthetic?
No. It is a natural compound found in cannabis plants. Some may consider it man-made because of its scarcity and requirement of a special extraction process. However, the process only involves extracting CBD from legal hemp and turning it into D8 THC using an acid.
CBD concentration is higher than Delta 8 THC. So, manufacturers acquire more D8 through this process. While this process involves a human intervention to balance the quantity with the finance, it is non-synthetic and is naturally available in cannabis plants.
What Kind of Delta 8 Products Can You Buy?
Delta 8 THC is available in different products to match everyone’s lifestyle. Products range from edibles and tinctures to concentrates and vape cartridges. Check for 3rd-party lab results to ensure the quality of the products you purchase. The future is bright and new for Delta 8 THC, with a lot left to learn. Give some products a try and see if it is a good fit for your daily regimen.
