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What is Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 THC

In just the few years that delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8 THC) has been available on the market, it’s already proven to be hugely sought-after thanks to its many unique effects.  This cannabinoid was a gamechanger when it first hit the scene thanks to its ability to provide a psychoactive buzz, which set it apart from CBD, CBN, CBG, and other cannabinoids that have also proven to be extremely popular.  So, what exactly is delta 8, and how does it stand out from those other 100+ cannabinoids in the hemp plant?

The Origin and History of Delta-8 THC

Delta-8 THC was first discovered in 1965, which may surprise many people who have only heard of it in the last few years.  Delta 8 is a minor cannabinoid and makes up only about 0.1% of the hemp plant.  It’s an isomer of both cannabidiol and delta 9 THC, which means that the molecules of either cannabinoid can be simply rearranged to be converted into delta-8 THC.

Delta 8 develops as the result of delta 9 THC oxidizing in the plant structure.  When delta 9 oxidizes, some of it converts into delta 8.  You may note that delta 9 also partially converts into CBN through the same process.

Is Delta-8 THC Psychoactive?

Delta-8 THC is psychoactive and acts as the first federally legal psychoactive cannabis derivative to make its way onto the market.  Delta 8 is a natural derivative of delta 9, and as delta-9 converts into delta-8, it retains about 70% of the cannabinoid’s original psychoactive activity.  This means that delta8 is about 30% less intoxicating than its counterpart.

The ‘high’ associated with delta-8 THC is unique, and largely regarded as desirable.  Because it’s milder, it’s not as “foggy” as delta 9, as many people note that they still feel pretty alert after taking it.  Delta 8 is also known for offering a high that’s particularly calming and relaxing to both body and mind, with many comparing its effects to those associated with indica strains.

Can Delta-8 THC Cause a Failed Drug Test?

As far as we know, delta-8 THC can and likely will result in a failed drug test.  Delta 8 and other THC-based cannabinoids are metabolized by an enzyme called THC-COOH.  Standard drug tests are seeking out this enzyme rather than delta 9 THC itself.  Why?  Because delta-8 causes the body to release THC-COOH.  Hence, a positive result is highly likely.  This means that if you’re someone who is tested for marijuana, you should avoid taking this cannabinoid..

What are the Effects and Properties of Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 THC has been researched quite a bit since its discovery several decades ago.  Even though today’s users largely take interest primarily in its psychoactive effects, this compound actually does come with valuable therapeutic qualities that make it useful in all kinds of applications.

Delta 8, like all cannabinoids, directly works with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).  This system is in charge of keeping the body in homeostasis and consists of a vast network of cannabinoid receptors located in each system of the body.  There are two types of cannabinoid receptors:

  • CB1 receptors (located in the nervous system)
  • CB2 receptors (found in the immune and digestive systems)

Cannabinoids like delta 8 are sent via the endocannabinoid system to individual receptors.  When they attach to these receptors, regulatory effects occur within adjacent bodily processes so that each system of the body can operate more efficiently, leading to an overall state of equilibrium.  Also, delta-8 strongly prefers CB1 receptors in the nervous system, and this allows it to offer particularly strong effects to nervous system functions.

An influx of data has gone into analyzing the potential benefits of delta-8 THC.  The most well-established benefits have been reported around the globe, ranging from news outlets to online sources, and even from delta 8 users themselves.

Potential Benefit #1: Anti-Inflammatory

Delta 8, like so many cannabinoids, offers potent anti-inflammatory effects that can offer relief from inflammation-based pain along with inflammatory conditions of the body.

Potential Benefit #2: Analgesic

Delta 8 works strongly on pain receptors in the nervous system to provide analgesic effects that can basically minimize the body’s pain response.

Potential Benefit #3: Anxiety Relief

Yes, delta 8 is a noted anxiolytic that may offer relief from stress and anxiety by providing sedation of the nervous system.  Many people find that delta 8 feels uniquely calming.

Potential Benefit #4: Sleep Aid

The sedative-like effects of delta 8 are responsible for its potential sleep-enhancing benefits.  Many people find that taking delta 8 at bedtime helps them fall asleep sooner and feel more relaxed at night overall.

Potential Benefit #5: Nausea Relief

Delta 8 has antiemetic effects that can help reduce feelings of nausea along with instances of vomiting.  This can be extremely helpful to those who struggle to keep food down, or consume enough food each day due to nausea.

Potential Benefit #6: Appetite Stimulant

Like many cannabinoids, delta 8 seems to have the ability to boost appetite by regulating the function of appetite in the digestive system.

Potential Benefit #7: Neuroprotectant

Did you know delta 8 is a neuroprotectant, much like CBD and delta 9?  Meaning, it has the fascinating ability to protect the brain’s neurons and strengthen neural pathways.  The neuroprotectant properties of cannabinoids are being studied for applications in those with both epilepsy and dementia.

Is Delta-8 THC Legal?

Delta-8 THC is a federally protected cannabinoid thanks to the passing of the U.S. Farm Bill in 2018, which legalized the hemp plant and its individual cannabinoids on a federal level.  This legislation essentially allows all hemp products to legal as long as they contain a maximum of 0.3% delta 9 THC.

However, at the time of this article, twelve states have banned delta 8 due to its intoxicating nature.  And, there is no telling if any other states will follow in their footsteps.

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • Colorado
  • Delaware
  • Idaho
  • Iowa
  • Mississippi
  • Montana
  • Rhode Island
  • Vermont
  • Utah

Is Delta-8 THC Safe?

Delta-8 THC is generally considered to be a safe cannabinoid, in that it is nontoxic to the human body, is not associated with any major side effects, nor causes any major withdrawal symptoms.  On the other side of the coin, because delta 8 is intoxicating, it can cause impairment that can dangerously affect your driving abilities or abilities to execute certain tasks throughout the day.  Driving under the influence of delta 8 is something that should be strictly avoided.

Keep in mind, too, that cannabinoids have the ability to suppress the CYP3A4 enzyme in the body.  This enzyme metabolizes many commonly prescribed medications.  So, talk to your doctor before taking delta-8 THC if you are on a medication, as this suppressing effect can cause meds to accumulate dangerously in the body.

While delta 8 is not associated with any major side effects, higher doses may cause the following:

  • Dizziness
  • Grogginess
  • Sleepiness
  • Temporarily reduced blood pressure
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Dry eyes
  • Anxiety/paranoia (from getting too intoxicated)

What Kinds of Delta 8 Products are There?

Delta 8 comes in all kinds of product types, as it’s easy to add pure delta-8 THC extract (distillate) to just about any product formulation.  Each delta-8 product type/delivery method offers a unique experience with the cannabinoid.

  • Delta 8 Vapes: Very popular, with vape oils and disposable vape pens being widely available, and 510-threaded vape cartridges being the most popular option by far.  They come in a generous variety of strains of the hemp plant, and you can enjoy the fastest-acting, most potent effects when you inhale the cannabinoid.
  • Delta 8 Flower: Also comes in a generous variety of strains and is simply raw hemp flower buds infused with pure delta 8.  Choose between loose flower buds and pre-rolls.
  • Delta 8 Edibles: Allow us to ingest the cannabinoid for up to 8 hours of intoxication and stronger body high effects.  Delta 8 gummies are very popular, but there are other types of edible forms as well.
  • Delta 8 Capsules: Behave just like edibles, with the only differences being that they come in a capsulated form with fewer ingredients.
  • Delta 8 Tinctures: These are usually taken in a sublingual manner (thanks to a dropper cap that makes administration easier), consisting of pure delta-8 THC and a carrier oil, and sometimes flavoring. Select from several milligram strengths.
  • Delta 8 Dabs: These are highly potent concentrates that are best for experienced users as they can be quite intoxicating.  They’re “dabbed” or flash-vaporized using a special type of vaporizing device.
  • Delta 8 Topicals: Are applied to the skin, offering their potential pain-fighting properties to targeted areas of the deep tissue when absorbed.  Due to only providing localized effects, they will not get you high.

Can Delta-8 THC Be Taken with Other Cannabinoids?

Yes.  Cannabinoids do not interact negatively with one another, as they all come from the same source.  And, certain cannabinoids can work synergistically together to offer unique effects.  For example, taking delta 8 with CBN may enhance its sleep-related qualities.  If you’re already taking another cannabinoid routinely, you can add delta-8 to your regimen with no real concern.

Note: If you decide to take more than one cannabinoid, it is best to still speak with your doctor first.

What is the Ideal Delta-8 THC Dosage for Beginners?

Delta-8 THC is intoxicating, which is why we recommend starting out with a low dosage as you develop a tolerance gradually over time.  It’s best to start with 5-10 milligrams in the form of a gummy, capsule, or tincture.  Or, 1-2 puffs if you’re inhaling delta-8 in the form of a vape or a flower product.  Again, since dabs are best for experienced users, you should only move up to concentrates after you can tolerate higher doses of delta 8.

Rogue Shop Has Your Delta-8 THC Needs Covered!

At Rogue Shop, you can find a wide array of amazing, high quality, and third-party lab-tested delta 8 products in order to explore their many uses and properties for yourself.  We offer all kinds of product types and formulations to ensure that everyone can find a delta 8 product for their specific needs.  With such a unique psychoactive experience that delta-8 THC can provide, coupled with its surprising variety of therapeutic benefits, you can take your daily routine to the next level

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