What is Delta-8? Understanding the Cannabinoid

What is delta-8? Exploring its effects and applications

Delta-8 is a type of psychoactive cannabinoid found in very low levels in most cannabis plants. Many users are already familiar with the more abundant cannabinoids of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9 THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). However, delta-8 has taken the cannabis world by storm recently as a newly marketed psychoactive with its own benefits.

Delta 8: A rising star among cannabinoids

While researchers at the University of Illinois first synthesized delta-8 in the 1940s, this compound was ignored for decades. Following the passage of the 2018 Agriculture and Nutrition Improvement Act, manufacturers began producing the substance and interest in delta 8 snowballed as more people tried it. Since then, the market has continued to increase. Delta 8 is now a nationally available product with a lot of enthusiastic fans. Last year, over $2 billion worth of delta-8 was sold.

All you need to know about delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol

Delta 8 is the casual term for delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol. From a chemistry perspective, delta 8 is a molecule that contains the same atoms as THC in a slightly different arrangement.

What does this mean for the casual user? It means delta 8 is essentially THC. It's a naturally occurring cannabinoid that has psychoactive effects when you smoke, vaporize, or eat it. Modern delta 8 products come from isolating and converting the cannabinoids in legal, low-THC hemp into delta 8. You can find delta 8 in gummies, tinctures, oils, and beverages.

Does delta 8 have THC?

Technically speaking, delta 8 is a little different from the classic cannabinoid that we refer to as "THC." Traditional THC is actually a compound named delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Though delta 8 contains tetrahydrocannabinol, it's not absolutely identical to classic THC. They have similar effects, but your body processes the two substances slightly differently.

The effects and uses of delta-8 unveiled

Does delta 8 feel like traditional cannabis? Many people say the effects are almost indistinguishable. However, others report that delta-8 feels a little milder. Some have even called it "marijuana-lite." Ultimately, the exact sensations you feel will depend on the product you take and the way your body metabolizes it.

What does delta-8 do?

Delta-8 has the same range of effects you can find in classic cannabis. Feeling relaxed, giggly, hungry, creative, chatty, and thoughtful are all common sensations reported by those who've tried delta-8 mention. However, according to some users, certain delta 8 products may not cause much drowsiness.

How does delta-8 interact with the body?

When you consume delta 8, it enters your bloodstream, travels to your brain, and binds to your endocannabinoid receptors just like cannabis does. Some research suggests that delta 8's unique molecular shape makes your body absorb it more slowly.

How is delta-8 made?

Delta-8 typically starts its life as hemp. This cannabis is low in THC and high in CBD, and depending on the location, it may be legal to grow. Manufacturers then extract CBD from the hemp and convert it into delta 8 from CBD. After synthesizing the delta-8, it's ready to place in edibles or vaporizable oils.

Why do people use delta-8?

For many people, delta-8's appeal lies in the fact that it's available to them. Those who are curious about cannabis but cannot obtain it legally can often find legal delta 8 at local stores. Delta-8's reputation as "weed lite" also enhances its appeal. Some people say they try delta 8 because they prefer a milder experience.

Finding the right dosage for you

Some people, especially experienced users, report that delta 8 feels milder than regular THC and requires them to take twice as much to get the same effects. However, others say delta 8 feels just as potent as THC does. Therefore, the smart choice is to start with a low dose and add small increments as needed. Exercise caution when consuming and keep away from children and pets.

Some alternatives for delta-8 THC

There are a lot of other hemp-derived cannabis products that are starting to appear on the market. You can try things like hemp-derived delta-9, or non-psychoactive CBD.

Future research: Exploring delta-8's untapped potential

Delta-8 is still a very new product. Previously, there wasn't enough interest to fully research this unique cannabinoid. Scientists still cannot tell how much delta-8 differs from delta-9 THC, so there is a lot to learn. With the sudden increase in delta-8 THC manufacturing, there will hopefully be more chances to discover how this cannabinoid works in the future.

Frequently asked questions about delta-8

Is delta-8 psychoactive?

Yes, delta-8 THC is psychoactive and will cause mild-altering effects.

Does delta-8 show up on a drug test?

Delta 8 products typically still contain trace amounts of cannabinoids that will show up on a drug test. Unless the test is only checking for delta-9, using delta 8 will usually cause a positive reading.

How long do the effects of delta 8 last?

Delta-8 effects last as long as traditional THC effects. Expect it to last at least an hour when vaporizing and at least four hours when eating gummies.

If you'd like to see the effects of delta 8 for yourself, try PAX's delta-8 Era™ pods. Made with high-purity delta-8 and flavorful terpenes, these concentrates are a convenient way to experience cannabis.

WARNING: Delta-8 products contain THC, an intoxicating substance. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery when using.