Delta 8 THC Explained

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Delta 8 THC, also known as delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, is a minor cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp. It is structurally similar to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component in cannabis, but with a few key differences. For example, delta 8 THC is less potent than delta 9 THC, meaning that it may produce less intense psychoactive effects. Additionally, delta 8 THC has a different binding affinity to the CB1 receptors in the brain, which may account for its different effects compared to delta 9 THC.

Benefits Of Delta 8 THC

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It has been found to have a number of potential therapeutic benefits which include:

Pain Relief

Delta 8 THC has been found to be effective in reducing pain, particularly chronic pain. Studies have shown that delta 8 THC may be able to reduce pain by binding to the CB1 receptors in the brain and spinal cord. This can lead to a reduction in the perception of pain, as well as an increase in the release of pain-reducing endocannabinoids.

Anxiety Reduction

It may help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Research shows that delta 8 THC can interact with the CB1 receptors in the brain, which can lead to a reduction in anxiety and an increase in feelings of calmness and well-being. Additionally, delta 8 THC may also be able to reduce anxiety by interacting with the serotonin receptors in the brain, which can lead to a decrease in the perception of stress.

Appetite Stimulation

Delta 8 THC has been found to increase appetite. It is believed that delta 8 THC’s interaction with the CB1 receptors in the hypothalamus can lead to an increase in hunger and food intake.

Anti-Inflammatory

It may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could make it useful for conditions such as arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

Ways To Use Delta 8 THC

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Delta 8 THC can be consumed in a variety of ways, including:

Inhalation

You can inhale delta 8 THC through a vaporizer, and it can also be smoked. This method allows for fast onset of effects, usually within minutes of inhalation.

Oral Consumption

It can be consumed orally in the form of edibles such as gummies or brownies. This method allows for a slower onset of effects, usually within 30 minutes to 2 hours, but the effects can last longer.

Topical Application

It can be applied topically as a lotion or oil, which may be useful for localized pain relief. This allows for a more targeted application and may have fewer psychoactive effects.

Sublingual

You may consume Delta 8 THC sublingually by letting the oil or tincture sit under the tongue for a minute before swallowing. This method can lead to faster onset of effects than oral consumption and may have a more potent effect.

Is Delta 8 THC Federally Legal?

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The legality of Delta 8 THC is currently a topic of debate. While delta 9 THC is considered to be a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, delta 8 THC is not specifically mentioned in the Controlled Substances Act.

However, in August 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a statement indicating that delta 8 THC is considered to be a controlled substance and that it will be treated the same as delta 9 THC. This means that, as of now, delta 8 THC is technically legal under federal law, but its status could change at any time.

The legality of delta 8 THC can vary from state to state. Some states have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use, while others have not. Additionally, some states have specifically legalized delta 8 THC, while others have not. It is important to check the laws of your state before using delta 8 THC.

It is also important to note that while the federal government has indicated that delta 8 THC will be treated the same as delta 9 THC, there is currently no enforcement of this statement.

However, this can change at any time, and it is important to stay informed on the current legal status of delta 8 THC.

The Difference Between Delta 8 THC & Delta 9 THC

While delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC are structurally similar, there are some key differences between these two cannabinoids.

Firstly, delta 8 THC is less potent psychotropically than delta 9 THC. This means that delta 8 THC may produce less intense psychoactive effects, such as euphoria or anxiety.

Secondly, delta 8 THC is less abundant in the cannabis plant than delta 9 THC. Delta 9 THC is the primary psychoactive component of the cannabis plant and can be found in concentrations up to 30%. In contrast, delta 8 THC is found in much lower concentrations, typically less than 1%.

Thirdly, delta 9 THC is considered a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, while delta 8 THC is not specifically mentioned in the Controlled Substances Act. However, as mentioned before, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a statement on the consideration of delta 8 THC as a controlled substance and to be treated the same as delta 9 THC.

Delta 8 THC & Drug Testing

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One potential concern for people considering using delta 8 THC is the possibility of failing a drug test. Delta 8 THC can be detected in drug tests that test for THC. It is also worth noting that there is no clear cut-off level for delta 8 THC in drug tests, so it’s hard to predict the minimum amount of consumption that will lead to a positive result.

It’s important to consider this potential risk if you are subject to drug testing for work or other reasons. It may be best to avoid delta 8 THC or opt for a different form of cannabis consumption, such as CBD, which is not psychoactive and does not have the same risk of showing up on drug tests.

Additionally, it’s important to be aware that delta 8 THC is not yet regulated by the FDA, which means that products containing this cannabinoid may not have accurate labeling or consistent levels of delta 8 THC. This can make it even more difficult to predict the effects or potential risks of consuming delta 8 THC. To ensure you are always getting quality Delta 8 THC products, always buy from a trusted supplier, like Agrowth.

In conclusion, Delta 8 THC is a minor cannabinoid found in cannabis that has a number of potential therapeutic benefits. You should check the laws of your state before using delta-8 THC and to stay informed on the current legal status of this cannabinoid.