DeltaBUZZ-8

Delta 8 THC is one of the many cannabinoids secreted by cannabis plants. Think of it as the cousin of delta 9 THC, the major intoxicating component in cannabis, but without the overwhelming effects. Delta 8 THC can make you feel relaxed and clear-headed — while still offering all the benefits of the THC experience.

Delta 8 THC occurs in very low concentrations in CBD hemp flower (less than 1%). However, modern extraction methods have discovered methods of isolating this cannabinoid from federally legal hemp.

Delta 8 THC products are made similarly to other hemp products. The isolated extract can be infused into a carrier oil to make tinctures or capsules, or mixed into an edible base to create gummies. You can also find products like delta 8 vape cartridges, disposable vape pens, and more.

Users describe the effects of delta 8 as being similar to those provided by delta 9 THC, but without the overwhelming buzz it can trigger in high doses. Most users report a sensation of feeling clear-headed and focused.

That being said, everyone is different, and the potency of delta 8 THC products may vary, so it’s recommended to err on the side of caution and start with a lower dose than you think you’ll need.

Delta 8 THC typically comes in the form of distillate because it occurs in such low concentrations in cannabis plants. The final delta 8 THC product has a thick translucent consistency that resembles CBD distillates.

Extracting delta 8 THC is a multifaceted process, in which the plant material goes through various refinement processes, including extraction, winterization, and decarboxylation.

You can use delta 8 THC like any other hemp-derived product. D8 can be vaporized using a standard vape pen or dab rig. It can also be infused into tinctures, edibles, or capsules.

The most common uses for delta 8 THC products include:

• Sublingual use
• Edibles
• Mixing with flower
• Vaping
• Dabbing

Current research observing the side effects of delta 8 THC products found they were insignificant compared to more common alternatives. However, the research into the safety and efficacy of delta 8 THC is still in its early stage.

While delta 8 THC is said to be less psychoactive, it’s still possible to go overboard and experience side effects. The most common adverse effects are feelings of sedation, bloodshot eyes, and dry mouth.

Start with a low dose first to assess your tolerance and avoid unwanted side effects.

Delta 8 THC became legal in most US states after the 2018 Farm Bill. As described by section 297A of the bill, “The term ‘hemp’ means the plant Cannabis sativa L. and any part of that plant, including the seeds thereof and all derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts, and salts, and salts of isomers, whether growing or not, with a delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of not more than 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis.”

Each state has its own laws regulating delta 8 THC — so make sure to explore the delta 8 laws in your state before you place an order.

Most drug tests can’t distinguish between delta 9 THC and delta 8 THC due to their close chemical structure. Therefore, using delta 8 THC can result in a false positive test for THC, even if one has never consumed THC-rich cannabis.