Delta 8 THC is a new player in the world of cannabis and hemp products and is quickly gaining popularity among consumers. But what exactly is Delta 8 THC and why is it becoming a trend? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what Delta 8 THC is, how it’s produced, the benefits it offers, and the safety concerns you should be aware of before trying it.
What Is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid, a compound that is found in the hemp plant. It is structurally similar to Delta 9 THC, which is the most well-known and widely used psychoactive component of cannabis. However, Delta 8 THC has a slightly different chemical structure, which gives it unique effects and properties.
The main difference between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC lies in the position of the double bond in the molecule. This small change in the chemical structure results in Delta 8 THC having a milder psychoactive effect than Delta 9 THC. This makes it a popular alternative for those who want to experience the benefits of THC, without the strong psychoactive effects that come with Delta 9 THC.
Delta 8 THC is legal in the United States, but the legality of the substance is still somewhat murky. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived Delta 8 THC, but the drug remains illegal under federal law if derived from cannabis. Delta 8 products can be found in various forms including edibles, tinctures, vaping liquids, and smoking products.
How Delta 8 THC Is Produced
There are three main methods of producing Delta 8 THC: extraction from hemp plants, synthesis from CBD or Delta 9 THC, and conversion of Delta 9 THC to Delta 8 THC.
Delta 8 THC can be extracted from hemp plants using various extraction methods, such as CO2 extraction. This results in a pure form of Delta 8 THC that can be used in various products, such as edibles and tinctures.
Another method of producing Delta 8 THC is through synthesis from CBD or Delta 9 THC. This process involves converting the CBD or Delta 9 THC into Delta 8 THC through chemical reactions. This method can be used to produce large quantities of Delta 8 THC, making it a popular choice for bulk delta 8 production.
Finally, Delta 9 THC can also be converted into Delta 8 THC through a process known as isomerization. This method involves chemically modifying the Delta 9 THC molecule to produce Delta 8 THC. While this method can result in a high-quality product, it’s also more complicated and can result in lower yields than other methods.
Delta 8 THC Products
Delta 8 THC products are available in a variety of forms, including edibles, tinctures, vaping liquids, and smokables.
Edibles are a popular form of Delta 8 THC, and come in a variety of forms including gummies, chocolates, and other sweets.
Tinctures are another popular form of Delta 8 THC and can be taken sublingually for fast and effective delivery. Vaping liquids are also becoming increasingly popular and offer a convenient and discreet way to enjoy Delta 8 THC.
Smoking products, such as delta 8 THC flower, pre-rolled joints, and blunts, are also available for those who prefer to smoke their Delta 8 THC. They offer the most rapid delivery of the cannabinoid to the body, with the effects being felt in under 20 minutes for most.
Benefits Of Delta 8 THC
Delta 8 THC offers several potential benefits for those who choose to use it. Firstly, it has milder psychoactive effects than Delta 9 THC, making it a good choice for those who are new to THC products or are sensitive to the stronger effects of Delta 9 THC.
Delta 8 THC also has several potential medical benefits, such as reducing anxiety and depression, providing pain relief, and increasing appetite while reducing nausea. However, it’s important to note that these potential benefits have not been extensively studied, and more research is needed to fully understand the effects of Delta 8 THC.
Additionally, many users report that Delta 8 THC has a more uplifting and energetic effect than Delta 9 THC, which is often associated with more relaxing and sedative effects. This makes it a popular choice for those who want to enjoy the benefits of THC without feeling too relaxed or sedated.
In conclusion, Delta 8 THC is a new and rapidly growing trend in the world of cannabis and hemp products and offers several potential benefits for those who choose to use it. It has milder psychoactive effects than Delta 9 THC and is becoming increasingly popular for its potential medical benefits, increased creativity and energy, and more uplifting effects than Delta 9 THC. Make sure to talk to your doctor, seek out high-quality and reliable sources of Delta 8 THC products, and always use these products responsibly.