What is Delta 8? Why Is It Getting Popular?
You might have recently heard about a “new” cannabinoid: delta 8. Rumors about this mysterious cannabis-derived compound have been circulating the internet for weeks. However, there’s nothing new about it. In fact, Raphael Mechoulam – the “Father of Modern Cannabis” – first synthesized the delta 8 compound back in 1965.
So why are delta 8 products just now gaining steam around the hemp industry?
Before we dive into the delta 8 marketplace, we must better understand the compound itself. Its full name is Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol, better known as delta 8 or delta-8 (whichever you prefer). It’s one of numerous cannabinoids, the group of cannabis-derived constituents that also includes CBD and THC. Furthermore, delta 8 is more closely related to THC than CBD. Look at their scientific names side-by-side, and you begin to see an interesting comparison:
- Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (hence its other name, delta 8 THC)
- Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (simply known as THC)
Today, we’ll further examine the relationship between delta 8 THC and other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. We’ll answer questions like: is there delta 8 CBD? Why or why not? You’ll also come to know common products, such as the ever-popular delta 8 cart. Plus, we’ll let you know if delta 8 products are friend or fad for your health and wellness. Let’s get started!
Is Delta 8 THC the Same as Regular THC?
No, delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC are different molecules. The biggest difference? Delta 8 is similar in chemical structure to THC but with lower psychoactivity. This means that you may experience mild intoxication after ingestion. Delta 8 and THC are so similar that users often refer to the former as delta 8 THC. However, you won’t necessarily feel “high” like you would after taking THC.
According to the National Cancer Institute, delta 8 exhibits “antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties.” The cannabinoid also binds to CB1 receptors in the same fashion as CBD and delta 9 THC molecules.
Does Delta 8 Get You High?
Yes, delta 8 has been known to get users “high” after ingestion. When compared to traditional THC, however, this intoxication is often described as about 50 percent potent. For example: if one gram of THC makes you feel 10/10 intoxicated, the same amount of delta 8 might make you feel 5/10 intoxicated.
However, everyone is different. You should always approach new compounds with caution, finding what dosage works best for you.
Is There Delta 8 CBD?
With all of this information in mind, how do delta 8 molecules fit into your CBD treatment? Why does any of this matter? Well, you may have heard about full spectrum CBD products. Full spectrum CBD goods come from whole-plant extractions of the hemp plant. Whole-plant extractions are known to contain a variety of compounds, not just CBD molecules. In fact, cannabis-derived full spectrum extracts may include:
- Cannabinoids (like CBD, CBG, CBN, and THC)
- Terpenes (which account for scent & flavor)
- Amino Acids
- Essential Fatty Acids
Have you ever wondered why full spectrum CBD products contain “<0.3% THC”? It’s because whole-plant hemp extracts naturally contain about 0.3% THC by dry weight. And wouldn’t you know it: full spectrum extracts even contain trace amounts of delta 8 molecules!
As members of the hemp industry, it is our duty to examine and dissect every “new” compound that enters the market. We want the best for our customers and want them to stay informed on different natural wellness supplements. Within the hemp industry, we want to play our part in creating a better, bright cannabis future. This is why we’re drawing comparisons between CBD and delta 8.
What Kinds of Delta 8 Products Are Available?
Now that we’ve examined delta 8 molecules and their effects, as well as offered a comparison between CBD and delta 8, let’s look at the market. What delta 8 THC products are out there? Which ones work best for you?
For starters, one of the most popular delta 8 products is the infamous delta 8 vape cartridge, known as a delta 8 cart for short. These delta 8 carts contain a concentrated formulation of delta 8 molecules, inhaled by users via a vaporizer.
However, we’ve seen similar products to what you might find at CBD Choice. For example, with some research, you can stumble upon delta 8 edibles, oil tinctures, and even delta 8 CBD combinations. As with any previously unused compound, always do your research and start slow. Your body may react well to CBD and THC but react poorly to delta 8. Sometimes, playing it safe is the key to success. There’s no substitute for safety when discovering benefits for your health and wellness!
Do You Carry Delta 8 Products at CBD Choice?
Like we said, we’re discussing delta 8 so that our CBD Choice family can stay informed on the latest trends in the cannabis and hemp industry.
That said, we do not currently stock any delta 8 CBD combinations. More scientific research is needed to fully substantiate wellness claims surrounding the delta 8 compound. Until then, we’ll stick with what we know: CBD. But if the science comes to fruition, don’t be surprised to see some delta 8 products in the future! We always offer what’s best for our customers and what’s best for the hemp industry at large.
