What is Delta-8-THC?
Did you know that the cannabis plant contains over 80 known chemical compounds or cannabinoids? These compounds are responsible for the various mental and physical effects that you feel when you consume cannabis or its derivatives. The most popular and more dominant cannabinoids present in cannabis are THC and CBD.Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or Delta-9 THC as it is less popularly known, is the compound responsible for the physiological effects of marijuana. However, there is another type of THC known as Delta-8 THC.Delta-8 THC and some other cannabinoids such as the CBG, CBN, THCV, etc., are scarcely present in the plant but equally as effective and functional for different medicinal and recreational purposes.
What Exactly is Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC, just like Delta-9 THC, is responsible for the “high” sensation you feel when you ingest cannabis. However, the potency of its effect is less than that of Delta-9 THC. This cannabinoid is found in small amounts in cannabis, hence its low popularity, but commercial extractors have devised ways of extracting it for use, such as through selective breeding and molecular isolation.The National Cancer Institute refers to Delta-8 THC as a THC relative with the same appetite-stimulating, antiemetic, anxiolytic, and neuroprotective properties but with a lower psychoactive potency. You can think of Delta-8 as the kid brother of Delta-9 THC. Because even though they give off the same effects, Delta-8 THC is calmer and less potent.Have you noticed that the effect you get when you eat brownies is not exactly the same effect you get when you smoke marijuana, for instance? There’s a chance you have taken both variants of THC without even knowing it.Storing THC for a long time can make it degenerate to Delta-8 THC. Since this is one of the processes used in making things like brownies. They may contain Delta-8 THC and not Delta-9 in many cases.
Is It Legal Then?
You may ask: Since this cannabinoid offers less psychoactive effects than Delta-9 THC, is it legal? Well, aside from the legalization of cannabis in New Jersey. And some other states, Delta-9 THC remains illegal under US Federal Law. However, there are uncertainties about the legality or illegality of Delta-8 THC. Due to the confusion of where it is sourced from.If Delta-8 THC is derived from cannabis Sativa, then it is definitely illegal, but if it comes from hemp, it could be termed as legal going by the 2018 Farm Bill. This law specifically defines all cannabinoids derived from hemp with a THC level below 0.3 as legal.
Benefits of Delta-8 THC
Delta-8 THC helps to reduce stress and anxiety and could be a more suitable option for you if Delta-9 THC is too strong for your body system. If you are a beginner or new to cannabis, Delta-8 THC will give you all the desired effects you desire from cannabis without much psychoactive reaction as opposed to delta-9 THC. This helps you regulate your intake and know your tolerance levels.Other benefits of this cannabinoid are its ability to reduce nausea and inflammations and stimulate the appetite.
Conclusion
Cannabis has been making new inroads in recent times and is gaining more acceptance by the law gradually. (We’re still ecstatic from the sweet victory of the NJ legalization!) Delta-8 THC is generally accepted and enjoyed by cannabis lovers. Because of its therapeutic effects and the mild “high” it gives.Delta-8 THC-infused products such as gummies, vapes. And brownies are legal in many states and can be found in stores and outlets. It is a milder option for new as well as regular cannabis users. And the demand for it is on the rise. This is because Delta-8 THC offers a more potent option than CBD but less than THC, playing the role of a go-between for users who want it that way.If you have been looking for a calmer way to get high or reduce stress. And anxiety without breaking the law in most places, then Delta-8 THC products should be top on your list. Just make sure the source of your products is hemp and not marijuana.