Delta-8 THC: What is it and why should try it?

Delta-8 THC: What is it and why should try it?

Cannabis and hemp plants grow very small amounts of delta-8 THC, making it far more rare than delta-9. However, it can be derived from either type of cannabis plant using special breeding, extraction, and processing methods.

The “8” in delta-8 stands for the placement of a chemical bond, one step over from where it sits in delta-9. Its structural similarity allows it to have similar effects. However, there are key differences.

While delta-8 and delta-9 THC may share similarities, they have some noted differences. Unlike CBD, which is heralded for its lack of psychoactive effects, that is not the case for delta-8 THC.

Delta-8 can be psychoactive for some consumers, just less so than delta-9. Many of the effects and benefits of delta-9, though toned down a few steps. It is still euphoric and stimulates appetite. It can energize or relax the consumer depending on the larger terpene and cannabinoid profile, similar to delta-9. And yes, it can induce some of the typical heady, psychoactive experience.

The main difference is that while delta-8 can do all of these things, it does them with less intensity. Even for experienced cannabis users, there is a noticeable effect, albeit a less intense one. However, the trade-off here is that the potential negative side effects of cannabis are also reduced. Delta-8 tends to be less racy, as mentioned, but what happens aside from the high?

Much like CBD and delta-9THC, delta-8 imparts the relaxation, focus, and uplift that consumers expect, along with reported pain reduction and decreased nausea.

Why should try Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8’s unique properties lend themselves to a variety of uses and situations. For the cannabis-curious, it can act as a bridge to acclimating to other cannabinoids. Especially in today’s market, many nascent cannabis consumers find delta-9 can sometimes be too intense to enjoy. This is especially true in the case of gummies, but for flowers and vapes as well, depending on the consumer. Delta-8 offers a way to try some of the effects of delta-9, without diving headlong into a full high experience.

While many people use cannabis to help with social anxiety, delta-9 effects tend to be too racy or hard to focus under certain circumstances. When clarity is higher on the priority list, a regular cannabis consumer might reach for delta-8 above delta-9.

Also, as mentioned, delta-8 is available to consumers who might not otherwise be able to try delta-9 THC. While some states may have individual restrictions, Delta-8 cannabinoids are completely hemp-derived and thus fall under the legislation of the 2018 Farm Bill. In accordance with the bill’s guidelines, delta-8 preparations contain less than 3% delta-9 THC.

Thanks for reading my post, What are your thoughts on delta-8 THC? Please share your experience with us!