Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9 THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two of the most abundant cannabinoids found in the sativa plant that have a long list of benefits. However, these are not the only beneficial cannabinoids found in the cannabis sativa plant.
Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol or delta-8 THC is one of the cannabinoids that has recently been put in the spotlight for its intoxicating properties, but there is much more to it than the high it produces.
What Is Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol?
Delta-8 THC is one of the hundreds of cannabinoids that naturally occur in the cannabis sativa plant. This cannabinoid is not present in significantly high levels, so concentrated amounts of this compound is mostly derived from the hemp plant.
This psychoactive substance is less potent than delta-9 THC, but has a similar chemical structure. This means that delta-8 THC can provide the same benefits as delta-9-THC, including pain relief, relaxation, and euphoria, with less of the side-effects such anxiety and nausea. It is estimated that delta-8 THC is two thirds as effective as delta-9 THC.
Currently, we do not have much research on this compound. Most of the information we have comes directly from delta-8 THC users, so scientific research is very limited.
Delta-8 THC Potential Benefits
Although there is a lack of clinical trials and scientific research on delta-8 THC, users have reported experiencing enhanced relaxation, pain relief, and a euphoric high with an easier come down and less anxiety. In essence, users report that delta-8 THC products produce a more pleasant high with less of the common side effects of THC based products.
In general, delta-8 THC has a milder impact than delta-9 THC because of its lower psychotropic potency. Regardless, delta-8 THC still provides the main effects of delta-9 THC, it simply has a less intense effect and fewer side-effects.
Are There Risks Or Side Effects Of Delta-8 THC?
The manufacturing process of delta-8 THC involves the conversion of CBD from hemp. This process involves the use of chemicals such as strong acids and organic solvents. These chemicals could potentially have an impact on users’ health. This is especially a concern when buying products from a non-reputable source.
Other potential side effects of delta-8 THC may include:
- An altered sense of time
- Red eyes
- Difficulty concentrating
- Dry mouth
- Difficulties regarding short-term memory
It is important to note that these effects may also be present at higher levels with more intense side effects when using delta-9 THC products. This is due to the fact that their chemical structures are very similar, with delta-8 THC having a milder effect.
Why Are Some People Worried About Delta-8 THC?
Since delta-8 THC has not undergone any scientific testing, there are some concerns about products that contain this compound. Some areas of concern include:
- Delta-8 THC products are not currently researched, evaluated, or approved by the FDA
- Some users have reported experiencing adverse reactions to delta-8 THC
- The extraction process of delta-8 THC may involve the use of dangerous chemicals that may end up in the final product
- Delta-8 THC products are synthetically produced and may contain additional compounds that may have an adverse effect on users
- Most delta-8 THC are not viewed as pure substances
Since we do not have much research in the field, there is still much to learn about delta-8 THC. Of course, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using any cannabis related products. You should also be sure to buy your products from a reputable source.
What Is A Good Alternative To Delta-8 THC?
There is much more research on cannabinoids such as delta-9 THC and CBD. If you are unsure about using delta-8 THC due to a lack of research, products with these cannabinoids may be a better option for you.
| Compound | Potential benefits | Potential side effects | Does it produce a high? |
| Delta-8 THC | Pain relief Relaxation Euphoria | An altered sense of time Red eyes Difficulty concentrating Dry mouth Difficulties regarding short-term memory Other potential side effects due to its synthetic composition | Yes |
| Delta-9 THC | Pain relief Relaxation Euphoria | An altered sense of time Red eyes Difficulty concentrating Dry mouth Difficulties regarding short-term memory | Yes |
| CBD | Pain relief Sleep aid Reduced anxiety | Changes in appetite Fatigue | No |
Products containing delta-9 THC are known to create feelings of euphoria and a high. If you want to experience the benefits of cannabis as well as experiencing a high, products containing this compound will work best for you.
CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is known for providing the benefits of cannabis without the high. If you are using cannabis for medical reasons, full-spectrum, or broad-spectrum CBD is a good place to start. These utilise other cannabinoids and terpenes that work together in what is known as the entourage effect to boost the effects of CBD.
Will Delta-8 THC Show Up On Drug Tests?
As delta-8 THC has a similar chemical structure to delta-9 THC, excessive use will likely lead to a positive result on drug tests. Any cannabis product that contains THC or trace amounts thereof have the potential to show up on drug tests. It is best to use CBD isolates if you are worried about drug tests, as broad-spectrum or full-spectrum CBD may also show up on such tests.
Delta-8 THC is a good alternative to delta-9 THC for those who want to experience the benefits of cannabis along with a milder high. However, there is still a need for more scientific research and clinical trials on the compound to determine its exact effects, benefits, and risks. Users that are uncertain about using delta-8 THC products can opt for CBD or delta-9 THC products, although it is still advised to consult a healthcare professional before using any cannabis related products.
Be sure to check out Cannarite for more informative articles related to cannabis as well as cannabis paraphernalia, devices, and accessories to optimize your experiences. We encourage safe cannabis consumption and only provide users with the best products to enjoy their experiences with cannabis, whether it be for recreational or medical use.
