The Intoxicating Effects of Delta-8 and Other FAQ’s

Will Delta-8 THC get you high? That’s the million-dollar question that any potential Delta-8 user needs to ask.

In short: yes, Delta-8 THC can cause intoxication — but the issue is more complicated than you might think and definitely benefits from some elaboration.

Luckily, this article is here to clear it all up! First, we go in-depth on the effects of Delta-8, then delve into some of the other most frequently asked questions about this fascinating (and increasingly popular) cannabinoid.

So without further ado, let’s get into the weeds with Delta-8 THC!

A Note on Focus

This article tackles several of the most frequently asked questions about Delta-8 THC, but it may not be the best place to start for those looking for a general overview.

If you’re just learning about Delta-8 for the first time, we recommend checking out our Overview of Delta-8 Article, then coming back here for more in-depth answers to some of the more specific questions you may have.

Will Delta-8 THC Get You High?

Let’s get right to it: Delta-8 THC absolutely can get users high.

Delta-8 is a psychoactive cannabinoid that has more in common with THC than with CBD. In fact, Delta-8 THC is, chemically speaking, virtually identical to traditional THC (which is actually “Delta-9 THC”).

That chemical similarity means that Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC have very comparable — though not identical — effects. That includes the infamous “weed high” caused by traditional THC.

What’s the Difference Between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC?

The difference between THC 8 and THC 9 is subtle, but it has a noticeable impact. We’ll cover both the chemical/structural differences and the differences in effect.

Chemical/Structural Difference Between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC

In terms of chemical structure, Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC are very similar. The only difference lies in the location of a single, albeit very important, chemical bond.

Both forms of THC have a double carbon bond, but the location of this bond differs between the two. Moreover, the location of this bond also accounts for the molecules’ respective names. In Delta-8, the double bond is on the 8th carbon; in Delta-9, it’s found on the 9th.

The Different Effects of Delta-8 and Delta-9

If you’re familiar with the intoxicating effects of marijuana and its primary cannabinoid, THC, then you’ll have a decent idea of what to expect from Delta-8. However, the effects are not identical, and the differences are worth noting.

Most crucially, Delta-8’s intoxicating effect is much weaker than Delta-9’s. Most sources estimate that Delta-8 is approximately 50% as potent as Delta-9. Based on that, users familiar with traditional THC should expect to feel similar results if they were to take a dose of Delta-8 that’s twice as large as that of Delta-9.

Of course, that’s not to say that users should go overboard. When taking any cannabinoid, it’s always best to start small until you’re sure how your body will react. Everyone’s biochemistry is different, and the effects of Delta-8 may surprise you.

Does Delta-8 Make You Sleepy?

While some users report that Delta-8 THC helps them fall asleep, remain asleep, and wake up feeling rested, there is little-to-no clinical research supporting these claims.

Some research has shown that Delta-8 has mild pain-relieving properties, which could help some users get more restful sleep. However, no such studies have specifically measured the effects of Delta-8 on sleep in otherwise healthy users.

Is Delta-8 Legal?

Delta-8 is legal for sale, purchase, and use in the United States, though with some caveats.

Notably, Delta-8 THC is, just like CBD, legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. That law effectively legalized hemp (and its major and minor cannabinoids) by creating a legal distinction between hemp and marijuana, the other form of cannabis.

Effectively, the Farm Bill recognized that hemp cannot, in general, cause intoxication, so it was somewhat absurd to ban it alongside its intoxicating cousin, marijuana.

Under US federal law, then, many cannabis compounds, including CBD and Delta-8 THC, are legal so long as:

1. They are extracted from hemp and not marijuana
2. Products made from such extracts contain less than 0.3% THC (that is, traditional Delta 9 THC)

Will Delta-8 Become Illegal?

Although Delta-8 is currently legal under federal law, its future is uncertain. As discussed above, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp compounds based on the idea that they could not get users high.

As we know, Delta-8 is the exception to this rule. It’s only a minor hemp cannabinoid, found in such small quantities that it can’t normally cause intoxication. However, when isolated and taken in higher proportions, it absolutely can cause inebriation.

This has many legislators and legal theorists arguing that Delta-8 should be banned for going against the “spirit” of the 2018 Farm Bill.

The future of Delta-8 under US federal law is uncertain. However, several states have taken the initiative to ban or restrict Delta-8 in their own jurisdictions.

Delta-8 is currently illegal in:

• Alaska
• Arkansas
• Arizona
• Colorado
• Delaware
• Idaho
• Iowa
• Mississippi
• Montana
• Rhode Island
• Utah

Delta-8 FAQs, In Closing

Delta-8 may come from hemp, but it’s a very different cannabinoid than CBD or traditional THC. Mildly intoxicating, potentially sleep-boosting, and with an uncertain legal future, it’s a complicated hemp compound that’s getting more and more attention each day.

We hope that you’ve found these Delta-8 FAQs to be helpful as you learn more about Delta-8. And, if Delta-8 sounds appealing, be sure to check out our selection of the industry’s best Delta-8 THC products.

Didn’t see your question answered here? Reach out to our Customer Support Team, who will pass your questions on to be answered here or in future articles!