Breaking Down Delta 8 THC

Most people have heard of CBD and THC by now, the two mostly commonly known cannabinoids. But there is a wide variety of these naturally occurring compounds found in hemp and cannabis plants. Delta 8 THC is one of the latest cannabinoids to go mainstream and gain swift popularity.

So, what even is delta 8 THC and why does this cannabinoid matter in the growing hemp and
cannabis industries? Read on, and let’s find out.

So, What Is Delta 8 THC?

If you consider yourself a cannabinoid aficionado, you probably know the proper name for THC, the cannabinoid most known for the “high” feeling, is delta-9 THC or Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. However, this is far from the only form on THC in hemp and cannabis
plants.

Delta 8 THC, or D8 for short, is minor cannabinoid found in all hemp and cannabis plants. Being a minor cannabinoid, D8 is found less abundantly than other major cannabinoids like CBD or traditional THC in some plants.

Delta-8 THC is a relative of Delta-9 THC, with a similar molecular structure, but with a few notable differences. The two share similar properties, like potentially stimulating appetite or reducing pain, but delta-8 THC reportedly exhibits a lower psychoactive impact than delta-9 THC.

On a molecular level, delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC vary mostly due to the location of a double bond in their molecular chain. Delta 8 THC contains the bond on the 8th carbon chain while delta 9 THC has it on the 9th carbon chain, as depicted by their names. But, even though this is sounds like a small difference in structure it impacts how each of the cannabinoids interacts
with the ECS, or endocannabinoid system.

Effects on Health

The ECS is responsible for many bodily functions like sleep, appetite, mood, pain management, stress levels and more. All cannabinoids can interact with and bind with receptors in the ECS, which is what researchers believe deliver the possibly therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids throughout the body. There are two major receptors that cannabinoids interact with; the CB1 and the CB2 receptors.

The bind between delta 8 and CB1 receptors is similar to that of delta 9, but based on the molecular structure, the reaction is distinctive. Users of D8 THC have reported similar effects that like of traditional THC, but less powerful, especially in the psychoactive direction. The CB1 receptor within the ECS is largely responsible for moderating the psychoactive effects of THC, so the difference in bonding could be the reason for the reported reduction in psychoactive properties.

So, this THC variant could be a middle ground between CBD and traditional THC. Click here to learn more about Delta 8 THC through a Full Resource Guide.

Potential Benefits of Delta 8 THC

The main benefits of delta 8 THC are similar to those of other cannabinoids like CBD and THC, like possibly aiding in pain relief, as a sleep aid, appetite stimulant and more. The other main draw is the decreased psychoactive aspect or “high” of the cannabinoid compared to its cousin delta 9 THC.

The slight variation in chemical structure between the two leads to the dimmed “high” effect, which could be great for those who may have experienced unwanted side effects from using traditional D9 THC. If you are in the market for a product that can still get you feeling good, may offer some prospective therapeutic aspect, but with less of the worry for anxious side effects,
delta 8 THC could be for you.

Is D8 Legal To Buy and Where Should You Purchase?

There is a gray area surrounding delta 8, and most of it relates to the legality of the cannabinoid. While restrictions may vary state by state, like restrictions surrounding delta 9 THC, currently most delta 8 products are hemp-derived and fall under the legislation of 2018 Farm Bill. While delta 8 remains federally unregulated (for now), more states are moving to implement regulations, so the gray area becomes darker.

The wording of the 2018 Farm Bill leaves delta 8 produced from hemp plants and processed CBD in the same space as CBD, unless otherwise declared by your state. Some states, like Michigan, have already moved to regulate delta 8 similarly to delta 9, subjecting manufactures to distribution regulation and testing parameters. Though some see this as a hurdle for the new cannabinoid, the need for testing of delta 8 products is highly necessary.

Delta 8 THC Products

Some of the most popular products on the market are gummies and edibles, vapes and easy-to-inhale products, oils and tinctures. As with any cannabinoid-based product, finding a safe and reliable source is key to getting all the benefits of a delta 8 THC product. Relying on third party lab test results is the best way to ensure you are getting a quality product that is not only
safe and effective, but also within the legal parameters of delta 8 and delta 9 THC.

If you are interested in trying delta-8 THC, turn to Real Tested CBD and our independent lab test results and product reviews to choose the best product for you. We test for purity, potency and overall quality, ensuring you are getting what you want out of your delta-8 purchase. To check out our resource page on delta-8 THC, click here.

Related: Looking to try the best delta 8 product on the market? Click here to check out our product guides and brand reviews of the most reliable D8 on the market today.