We have all heard of CBD and THC by now, but less have heard of Delta-8. THC found in marijuana is THC-A Delta-9 and it is the cannabinoid that is responsible for the psychoactive outcome of smoking marijuana. When smoked the carbonization of the THC-A converts to THC, changing it into the molecule that can be absorbed by the Endocannabinoid System.
So how does Delta-8 fit into the equation?
Firstly, Delta-8 and Delta-9 both share a double bond but the location of the double bond is what makes them different.
Delta-8 is extracted from the hemp plant, but it is still defined as a Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This allows it to stay legal under the 2018 Farm Bill which states that all cannabinoids and isomers in hemp are legal provided they contain less than 0.3% THC Delta-9.
Delta-8 only occurs in very small percentages within the hemp plant (1% – 2%), whereas Delta-9 can occur in percentages up to 35%.
Labs are using technology to convert the cannabinoids found within the hemp plant to Delta-8 using a process called isomerization. This process uses heat and a chemical process to convert the CBD into Delta-8. It is important to ensure the company you are purchasing your products are using a reputable lab and will provide you with a copy of the Certificate of Analysis.
Delta-8 is unique in that it not only binds to CB1 receptors but it also binds to CB2 receptors making it beneficial for supporting immune response.
So why haven’t I heard of it before?
Delta-8 is not a new discovery in the world of cannabinoids. 113 cannabinoids have been discovered within the hemp plant.
Scientists in Israel conducted clinical trials in 1995 to treat cancerous tumors in mice and it proved effective in shrinking these tumors. There has been numerous studies involving Delta-8 in Israel, primarily as an appetite stimulant and an anti-nausea drug and it was proved to have positive beneficial applications.
The grey area of Delta-8 legalization primarily falls with how it is extracted. It is possible to convert Delta-9 THC into Delta-8 which would result in a federally illegal substance as it is derived from cannabis.
There has also been much discussion over the isomerization of CBD to Delta-8 which is illegal as opposed to the synthetic process of a substance to THC, which would be illegal under the Farm Bill. This has resulted in a ruling by several States to ban the sale of Delta-8 products. This may be partially due to their misunderstanding of the process of isomerization and partly due to the fact that it is psychoactive.
For a more complete list of these States please visit your home States website on banned substances.
Will Delta-8 get me high?
Yes. It does have a psychoactive effect, not unlike that of marijuana. It is described as a cleaner, nicer feeling with around 50% of the effect of marijuana.
We have tried it and we will contest to the fat that it is a great daytime high with none of the anxiety or paranoia that can be experienced with strong strains of marijuana.
It is a great alternative to smoking marijuana, so it is little wonder that many Reddit users claim that Delta-8 has been life changing for them.
Those suffering from pain and inflammation who have been reluctant to use marijuana due to its heavy, sedative effects may have found a wonderful alternative.
There is a plethora of Delta-8 products available on the market. Ensure to choose one from a reputable company with Lab Tests. A great way to start is by consuming a tincture or a gummy from OC Wellness Solutions.
