It’s fair to say that the cannabinoid market has exploded in recent years. It started with CBD; the cannabis-derived compound touted for its therapeutic properties. Since the rise of CBD, we’ve seen several other cannabinoids enter the health and wellness market.
Delta-8 (delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol) is one of more than one hundred compounds originating from the cannabis sativa plant. Most people know delta 9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces an intoxicating high.
Delta 8 THC is also intoxicating, but not to the same extent as delta 9. Experts suggest it’s half as potent as delta 9, producing a subtle and relaxing high.
There are several ways to reap the benefits of D8, delta 8 gummies being especially popular. The best delta 8 gummies are delicious, made from high-quality hemp extract, and deliver a potent dose of delta 8.
What Is Delta 8 THC?
The cannabis plant contains more than one hundred naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids. The two most famous cannabinoids are CBD and THC (delta 9), but in recent years other cannabinoids are also starting to gain attention.
Delta 8 is an intoxicating compound with a similar chemical structure to D9. The only difference in structure is the placement of a carbon bond. While this difference may sound small, it has a big impact on effects.
Due to the unique location of the double bond, delta 8 interacts slightly differently with the body. For starters, it’s less potent than delta 9, producing a much more mellow high. Users report feelings of relaxation, comfort, and calmness after using delta 8.
Delta 8 products are an excellent midpoint between D9 and CBD, combining some of the former’s intoxicating effects with the latter’s calming properties.
Delta 8 gummies are a favorite for many because they are tasty, delicious, and easy to use. Unlike tinctures which require the user to calculate and measure dosage, delta 8 gummies are hassle-free and contain a pre-measured dose of D8.
How Are Delta 8 Products Made?
Naturally occurring delta 8 THC is rare – it’s found in extremely low quantities in the cannabis plant. Therefore, most manufacturers create synthetic delta 8 by chemically converting CBD or delta 9 through a process known as isomerization.
First, a specialized process is used to extract and isolate cannabinoids from the hemp plant. Supercritical CO2 extraction is considered the gold standard in the industry. Most brands extract CBD to convert into D8.
Then, in a laboratory setting, manufacturers use a non-polar solvent and acid reagent to produce the chemical reaction and cannabinoid conversion. Finally, the solution must be cleaned and filtered since creating delta 8 can create several unwanted byproducts.
The final delta 8 extract is then used to create different products, including tinctures, vape products, and delta 8 gummies.
Is Delta 8 THC Safe?
Delta 8 THC is a new cannabinoid with little scientific evidence behind its name. Many users report a positive experience when using delta 8, but the risks are unclear due to the lack of research.
Current findings suggest that there aren’t any considerable health risks linked to delta 8 use. Moreover, D8 seems to be safer than delta 9 THC when used responsibly. It doesn’t make users as high as regular marijuana and has a lesser incidence of anxiety and paranoia.
The biggest safety concern with delta 8 is that it’s synthetic, so there’s a high risk of consuming contaminated products. Some manufacturers may use potentially unsafe chemicals to create delta 8 extracts.
Basically, the final product may contain harmful contaminants due to the chemicals used during the conversion process. Another concern is that the raw material could also be contaminated.
Like other cannabinoids, there are a few side effects linked to delta 8. Most are similar to delta 9 THC and include bloodshot eyes, dry mouth, memory loss, drowsiness, and low blood pressure.
How to Minimize the Risks When Using Delta 8 THC
In most cases, side effects occur due to users consuming an excess of delta 8. Therefore, it’s best to start with a low dose and increase your intake gradually as needed. Side effects are rare when delta 8 is consumed in small doses.
Most importantly, buy your delta 8 products from trustworthy and reputable brands. You want to avoid the risk of consuming contaminated products, so always check for third-party lab reports. These certificates of analysis show precise cannabinoid content and should show that the product has been tested for the presence of harmful substances, such as pesticides and heavy metals.
Avoid untested products since you have no idea what’s in them. If a brand doesn’t publish lab reports, it’s an immediate red flag.
Final Thoughts on Delta 8 THC and Its Safety Profile
Delta 8 THC is a promising new cannabinoid touted for its enjoyable and relaxing high. It’s a great midpoint between CBD and delta 9, combining the benefits of each.
Generally, delta-8-THC products are considered safe, but more research is needed before any definitive claims can be made about its safety profile. Side effects may occur but are relatively minimal, especially when used responsibly, and more of an inconvenience than a serious risk to your health.
The biggest concern with delta 8 is the risk of consuming contaminated products. But it’s easy to avoid this by shopping from trustworthy brands with good standing in the industry. Lab reports are essential for evaluating a product’s quality, purity, and safety.
