With the passing of the Farm Bill in 2018 and much more legislation legalizing cannabis in various states around the country, more and more cannabis products are surfacing on the market. One of the most recent products is Delta 8. Delta 8 products are quickly becoming all the rage among cannabis enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
However, some people are wondering if Delta 8 is cannabidiol (CBD) or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) before they run out and pick up a pack of Delta 8 500mg gummies. Today, we’ll examine Delta 8 and explain which cannabinoids are present in these products so you can make the best choice for your needs.
What is Delta 8?
Delta 8 isn’t the full name of this cannabis extract. The full name is what can tell you whether this extract is CBD or THC. It’s actually called Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol. As we’ve mentioned, tetrahydrocannabinol is what THC means. So, Delta 8 is a form of THC.
However, it’s different than the THC that most people are familiar with. THC in reference to the main ingredient of cannabis that causes people to feel “high” is called Delta 9 THC. The primary differences between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC are that Delta 8 THC has a lower potency than Delta 9 THC and it’s much rarer. Many consumers report that Delta 8 THC produces a clearer, smoother high than the intense high of Delta 9 THC.
In addition, this cannabinoid is much rarer because it’s only produced in minute amounts within cannabis. As a result, it’s challenging and expensive to extract. To combat this expense, many Delta 8 product manufacturers convert CBD into Delta 8 THC using a chemical process.
How does Delta 8 differ from CBD?
The differences between Delta 8 THC and CBD are significant. As we mentioned, Delta 8 THC produces the psychoactive high that users feel. CBD, on the other hand, does not have any psychoactive effects and is known more for its potential therapeutic benefits.
Delta 8 is also absorbed by the body remarkably quickly and is metabolized by the liver. In contrast, CBD is absorbed by the body slowly and is metabolized by other means. As a result, Delta 8 THC stays in the body for a longer period of time and has a higher chance to cause side effects like dizziness and paranoia. CBD does not stay in the body for long and isn’t known to cause adverse side effects other than drowsiness.
Do Delta 8 products contain cannabinoids other than Delta 8 THC?
There is no definitive answer to whether Delta 8 products have other cannabinoids other than Delta 8 THC in them as this varies between manufacturers. These cannabis products come in a wide variety of choices, including edibles, flower, vape cartridges, and oils. However, the cannabinoid content of these products is vastly different.
You can find products that are exclusively Delta 8, a mix of Delta 8 and CBD, and a full range of cannabinoids, excluding Delta 9 THC. The reason for the exclusion of Delta 9 THC is that it’s still federally illegal and many states still haven’t legalized it. So, Delta 8 manufacturers keep the Delta 9 content down to 0.03 percent or lower to sell it throughout the United States.
Enjoy Delta 8 responsibly.
Now that you know whether Delta 8 is CBD or THC, you can make an informed decision on your next cannabis product purchase. Remember that Delta 8 is a form of THC so it will cause psychoactive effects, unlike CBD. Furthermore, keep in mind that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve cannabis to treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Moreover, you should always consult your doctor before starting any new supplements.
