Cannabis products are exploding in popularity. This high demand has opened the door for more research on cannabinoids and their effects. Cannabinoids are the active chemical compounds produced in the terpenes found on the cannabis plant’s flowers and leaves.
What Is Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is one of the hundreds of cannabinoids found in cannabis plants and has quickly become a favorite. It is currently being marketed as “ the superior version of THC,” and its use comes with several mild effects, including:
- Euphoria
- Happiness
- Uplifting feelings
- Pain relief
- Insomnia relief
Delta-8 vs Delta-9
The use of THC cannabinoids creates psychedelic effects and “highs” by interacting with your endocannabinoid system. When you hear about these highs from THC, the reference is most likely to delta-9 THC.
Delta-8, on the other hand, has much milder effects. It can be found in hemp plants, and it also interacts with the endocannabinoid system.
Legal Differences
At the federal level, delta-9 is a Schedule 1 illegal substance that is heavily regulated and taxed. However, many states have legalized the use of medical and/or recreational delta-9.
Delta-8, however, is derived from hemp. In 2018, Congress added a provision to the Farm Bill that legalized hemp farming. The passing of this provision has led to the high demand for CBD (cannabidiol) products because they aren’t intoxicating and claim to relieve many ailments.
The popularity and success of CBD have led to the extraction and manufacturing of delta-8. Currently, delta-8 is legal at the federal level and in most states because it comes from hemp. Also, it is not taxed, so it is much cheaper than delta-9 products.
Safety
Although delta-8 is marketed as a hemp or CBD product, it shares similarities with delta-9. Overall, delta-8 appears to be relatively safe but can have a mild, intoxicating effect. Also, like delta-9, it can cause:
- Increased heart rate
- Lethargy
- Sedation
- Paranoia
- Uncoordinated movement
When you purchase THC products, you’re usually aware of what you’re getting yourself into. However, delta-8 causes problems when it’s used unexpectedly in CBD products that are not supposed to cause intoxicating effects.
There have been reports of children and animals getting sick from consuming CBD products because they contained delta-8. If you want pure CBD, make sure you’re buying it from a reputable company and ask if its products contain delta-8.
Future of Delta-8 THC
Due to the intoxicating effects of delta-8, the hemp loophole will probably close soon. Some states have already banned delta-8, whereas others are working on legislation to regulate it.
Licensed cannabis growers are pushing for federal legislation on delta-8 products because the cheaper products negatively impact their business. They argue that delta-8 should be treated the same as delta-9 and be banned at the federal level.
Currently, federal delta-8 legislation has not been introduced in Congress.
Looking For a Mild High?
At Campfire Cannabis, you’ll find many high-quality mild strains. You can order them through our online dispensary and pick them up at one of our convenient locations in West Boylston or Salisbury.
