All About Delta-8 THC

The cannabinoid industry continues to surprise us with new and interesting products. But what makes these products worth discussing is the sheer uniqueness of the effects tied to each product. This is why cannabinoid enthusiasts stay vigilant, always looking for the new best products. 

For many, Delta-8 THC is that “new best thing.” In this article, we explore the science of Delta-8 and why you might love it. But to answer this question, we must first address the controversies and misinformation surrounding it. And why the FDA withholds its support.

What exactly is this kind of THC? Is it legal? Will it be detected during a drug test? We address all of these questions and more to help you understand more about Delta-8. Continue reading to learn all you need to know about its benefits, potential risks, legalities, and even how it was invented.

Table of Contents

What is Delta-8 THC?

Cannabinoid Delta-8 is a relatively new compound. Its popularity has grown exponentially and it can now be bought from weed dispensaries and convenience stores. In hemp and cannabis (marijuana) plants, you can find small amounts of Delta-8 THC (or Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol), a naturally occurring chemical compound considered a cannabinoid. Their neuroprotective properties may reduce anxiety, pain, and nausea. 

The Delta-8 THC psychotropic effects are similar to Delta-9, the primary form of THC found in cannabis. However, Delta-8 is not as potent. Cannabinoids within the cannabis family come in numerous kinds. These naturally occurring compounds can derive a wide range of physical, emotional, and mental effects. THC and CBD are the most prevalent types of cannabinoids. In the cannabis plant, tetrahydrocannabinol is the active ingredient that makes you feel high at some point, depending on its potency. 

Despite its mild psychoactivity, it is non-intoxicating. THC, however, is not legal in many places. CBD, on the other hand, is permitted. CBD is derived from hemp that contains less than 0.3 percent THC, which is legal under US law. Because it is made from legal hemp plants, it is legal in many states. The Delta-8 found in hemp, however, is in minimal amounts. Because of this, its isolation and refinement are more difficult. Through a process known as isomerization, scientists are refining methods of transforming CBD extracts into Delta-8.

History of Delta-8 THC

Delta-8 and Delta-8 THC products are mistakenly considered a discovery, and their recent introduction into hemp markets coincides with the time when the cannabinoid was first isolated. There is no doubt that Delta-8 THC has become wildly popular in such a short amount of time. Thanks to decades of study to uncover its unique properties, Delta-8 is ranked as the 4th most researched cannabinoid in the world today.

Nature is the producer of Delta-8 THC. It was not discovered in a lab or accidentally created during a home experiment; it is a compound that is naturally found in plants. Delta-8 THC is found only in 0.1% of hemp plants. Because it is present at such a small concentration, identifying or even isolating the compound was not as straightforward as isolating CBD, for example. Delta-8, a cannabis compound, wasn’t discovered recently. It was founded in 1965 by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, also known as “The Father of Cannabis.” However, it seems that its full potential has been hiding in plain sight all these years. 

Medical researchers became interested in studying the potential therapeutic effects of the compound. Since learning more about the impact of Delta-8 THC, Delta-8 products have experienced a boom in popularity. There has suddenly been a growing market for Delta-8 tinctures, edibles, vapes, and more.  

All About Delta-8 THC - fact

More Research on Delta-8 THC

An effort was made in 1974 to determine whether or not cannabinoids affect the immune system by analyzing Delta eight and Delta 9 THC, as well as cannabidiol (CBD). Cancerous mice were administered the cannabinoids to see if they caused the disease to progress more rapidly. Interestingly, the study concluded the opposite, leading to further reviews of Delta-8 to determine its possible benefits. The results of a study for cannabinoids to be used for cancer treatment seem promising.

According to another study, eight children with various hematologic cancers were given Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8-THC), which does not possess psychoactive effects. The treatment was executed for a total of 8 months using different antineoplastic drugs. So far, the study has had 480 treatments using Delta-8-THC. THC is administered every six hours for 24 hours, starting two hours before antineoplastic treatments. Patients didn’t suffer from vomiting, and there were little to no side effects. 

Delta-8 THC has also been shown to help the body produce a crucial neurotransmitter known as Acetylcholine. This vital neurotransmitter boosts neurogenesis and improves neuroplasticity, favorable for those with cognitive issues, mostly related to aging. Up to date, more studies are being held to maximize the potentials of Delta-8. 

How does Delta-8 Make you Feel?

The first thing any cannabis user would be curious about is how Delta-8 would feel like. You might want to know why it’s a THC, but it’s legal in some states. The answer to this question, however, would vary depending on the Delta-8 users. Someone’s experience with Delta-8 may differ from yours, so be cautious if you’re a first-time user.

If you’re not familiar with cannabis, carefully consider the product, the right dosage, and the proper consumption. Users attest to Delta-8’s different kind of “high” that non-users may find too intense.

Remember that it’s a different experience for everybody. Others may find Delta-8’s effects to be mild rather than intense. To them, it is incredibly relaxing and puts them in a calm state, enabling them to go about their normal day.  

Other Delta-8 THC effects include a heightened sense of appetite. It’s an energizing agent that enhances your mood, makes you feel good, and appears to ease certain types of pain. Some people are pretty contented with the positive effects of Delta-8 on their physical and mental being.

Here are the usual effects of using Delta-8 THC products:

  • Feeling of calmness and being clearheaded
  • Floaty feeling because of the “high” you experience
  • Improved alertness and focus
  • Heightened appetite
  • Relaxes you intensely

People report having these experiences generally, so you may experience the same or other unique sensations. Keep in mind that each individual will experience differently from others. So, if you ever feel different ways, it means your body is reacting differently to Delta-8, so it’s always best to practice caution.  

Delta-8 THC Legalities

Currently, because Delta-8 THC can be extracted from hemp, it’s legal on a federal level. Hemp was reclassified in the 2018 Farm Bill as a controlled substance and legalized. As long as the total Delta 9 THC content of your d8 THC product is less than 0.3%, you can purchase Delta-8 products in the USA. However, Delta-8 THC is not legal in all US states. It isn’t legally allowed for consumption globally either. See the list of the countries that ban Delta-8 THC.

Hemp plants do not naturally produce large amounts of Delta-8 THC. In other words, Delta-8 is mostly produced synthetically by converting CBD and Delta-9 THC into Delta-8 THC, which is illegal.

In some states, the sale of Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC-containing products is strictly prohibited. Due to the synthetic nature of Delta-8 and its lack of regulation, the poison control centers have received more calls due to concerns about its danger and toxicity. Check your state’s laws if you want to try or purchase THC-based products. 

Benefits of Delta-8 THC

CB1 receptors in all parts of the body can bind Delta-8 THC, according to the National Cancer Institute. The receptors are a part of the human body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates and maintains homeostasis in our bodies. In simple terms, homeostasis refers to any process by which living organisms actively maintain relatively stable conditions that ensure their survival. 

Compared to Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 THC exhibits lower psychotropic potency, making it less likely to bind to receptors. Here are some of the ways Delta-8 THC is an excellent choice:

  1. Less Pain Because of Analgesic Properties

Delta-8 THC’s analgesic properties reduce the intensity of pain. It may be helpful for patients suffering from neuropathic and inflammatory pain, as much as it helps lower pain in minor conditions.

  1. Stimulates Appetite

Researchers analyzed Delta-8’s appetite control effects in a study. Researchers concluded from the trial that even low dosages of Delta-8 stimulated an increase in food intake. It follows that healthier weights are associated with a longer lifespan and a lower risk of disease. Whenever someone is over or under a healthy weight, medical professionals continuously look for solutions.

During a 2004 study, mice were observed to consume more food, exhibit cognitive dysfunction, and release neurotransmitters. There was a slight difference between the mice receiving Delta-8 and those receiving Delta-9-THC. Interestingly enough, the mice in the D8 group lost weight despite eating more. Cannabis users showed a lower BMI than non-users.

  1. Comes with Antiemetic Effects

Cannabis users have long believed in the antiemetic properties of the plant thanks to anecdotal evidence, but that belief was substantiated by a study reported by the National Library of Medicine.

Researchers in Israel administered Delta-8 to pediatric cancer patients suffering from nausea caused by chemotherapy as part of research into cannabis’ antiemetic properties. During the 480 treatments, they found a 100% cure rate for nausea, with negligible side effects (including psychoactive effects).

Delta-8 has been patented by the US government for its antiemetic uses. It can alleviate nausea and vomiting in cancer patients. A study of one cannabinoid patent showed Delta-8 THC was 200% stronger as an antiemetic than Delta-9.

  1. Comes with Lesser Anxiety Symptoms

We have already noted how Delta-8 binds to CB1 receptors throughout the body. The CB2 receptors have also been observed to connect to it, according to some researchers. A cannabinoid’s ability to bind is what allows it to control pain and anxiety better. You may experience a wave of relaxation as a result of its anxiolytic properties.

  1. Has Neuroprotective Properties that Aids the Brain

In addition, research suggests that Delta-8 THC could increase the body’s production of Acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter. The neurotransmitter in this area is involved in memory, cognition, and neuroplasticity. It appears that Delta-8 THC has fewer or no adverse side effects regarding this purpose.

  1. Improved Body Balance

Delta-8 interacts with the endocannabinoid system to improve body balance and well-being. It regulates certain hormones that are linked to mental health. Such hormones are serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate.

  1. Makes you Sleep Better

Delta-8 affects the brain and body’s natural rhythms. It can bind twice to endocannabinoids, which might help calm the nervous system. You can improve your sleep and relax better with Delta-8. 

What are the Potential Risks of Taking Delta-8 THC?

  • Not Legal Everywhere

Even though Delta-8 THC is, by default, legal in the United States, keep in mind, it isn’t legal in all places. The following states currently prohibit Delta-8 THC:

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas 
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Delaware
  • Idaho 
  • Iowa
  • Kentucky 
  • Michigan
  • Mississippi 
  • Montana
  • New York
  • North Dakota
  • Rhode Island
  • Utah
  • Vermont
  • Washington

Delta-8 THC is legal because it falls under a loophole in federal regulation, creating uncertainty. It is, therefore, not guaranteed to remain the same in every state. There might be instances when the local state would ban it in the future. Furthermore, it’s possible that Delta-8, if taken along with Delta-9 THC, would show up identically to Delta-9 THC in a drug test, rendering you positive.

  • Not Enough Research For Now

Customers must understand that Delta-8 has not yet proven its benefits, but there are many potential benefits. Studies and clinical trials are the only ways to establish a compound’s benefits and safety, and these apply to both CBD and THC.

Most studies exploring Delta-8’s possible uses have been published since the 1970s, but most focus on the tolerance to Delta-8’s side effects, which are promising but still limited. Delta-8 benefits are mainly anecdotal at this time, so use your judgment to decide whether to use Delta-8 because of their favorable properties and advantages.

  • Occurrence of Possible Side Effects

Despite Delta-8 THC’s s reduced potency, it comes with some side effects as well. The psychoactive effects may include feelings of happiness, euphoria, and a slight increase in energy. However, it’s worth mentioning the adverse effects that include nausea, diarrhea, red eyes, increased appetite, dry mouth, anxiety. The experience varies from one Delta-8 THC user to another.

However, it should be noted that these side effects don’t occur in every user, and no two people will react to Delta-8 in the same way. New Delta-8 users must start with small doses and monitor its effects.

Where can you Buy Delta-8?

In addition to over-the-counter retailer options such as gas stations, convenience stores, weed shops, and online vendors, Delta-8 products can be found online as well. There is a wide variety of Delta-8 products to consume. These include candies, gummies, vaping cigarettes, joints, beverages, edibles, tinctures, and oils. 

Unfortunately, these products and their ingredients list are not subject to any quality control. So it’s critically important to research and read reviews about a particular supplier or vendor before purchasing their product. 

Untrusted Companies to buy Delta-8 from

In the last few months, Delta-8 THC has emerged from the underground into the public realm. This market was unknown before 2020. Delta-8 THC operates outside the law and is often found in the black market only. As with any underground market that becomes mainstream, many unsafe and unworthy vendors are to sort out. Suspicious Delta-8 THC vendors are known for their unethical practices, black market operations, and outright scams.

There is a lack of testing for Delta-8, which makes it the most common problem. Generally speaking, Delta-8 THC is very safe, but only if it’s made correctly and thoroughly tested to ensure no harsh chemicals are used in its manufacture. Therefore, a third-party laboratory test is essential to investigate its process, ingredients, and residues, if there are any. You shouldn’t buy from a company that doesn’t perform these tests or can’t guarantee the safety of its products. The Delta-8 THC space has quite a few low-grade, scammy, or negligent companies to be aware of. So ensure to keep away from them.

Scams to Avoid

Never buy from organizations that have lied about test results in the past or have used scammy marketing methods. Although it’s hard to prove that some companies are selling fakes, one way to know what vendors to avoid is their lack of tests. Some companies have bypassed third-party lab tests to verify the safety of Delta-8 THC in their products.

The demand for Delta-8 has led to a rise in online scams. Some dishonest brands are taking advantage of the increasing demand for cannabinoid products to con trusting customers out of their hard-earned cash. Here are the following scammy tactics that you need to be more mindful of:

  • Fake Delta-8 Companies

Scams involving accidental misspelling are among the most blatant in the industry. A fake Delta-8 company is a typical scam. Companies like these create names similar to popular brands to make it difficult for customers to distinguish between them and the famous brand.

  • Free Trial Offerings

The practice of providing prospective buyers with a free trial of a product is another well-practiced scamming effort. Unfortunately, certain unscrupulous brands of Delta-8 THC are currently taking advantage of this excellent marketing strategy. They know that many people desire Delta-8, but they are also aware that it is pretty expensive. Hence, a free trial should be an ideal tactic for them to attract customers. To receive a complimentary bottle, people need to provide their personal information and contact details. This could mean the product is free, but they’ll be paying a shipping fee, and they will trick the customer into subscribing monthly without them knowing entirely how it goes. Their credit card will be charged monthly without the customer’s consent.

  • Using Famous People

Another Delta-8 brand to avoid is when a company uses celebrities and influencers without their consent. This method isn’t as popular as the other tactics, but it is widely used. Some brands feature celebrities describing how they use cannabinoids, quote their experience with the product. Using celebrities to “endorse” Delta-8 THC products is a cheap shot at giving their fake business a sense of legitimacy. 

How Does Delta-8 THC Show On Drug Tests?

Numerous factors come into play for Delta-8 users to possibly test positive for THC. Ultimately, however, a person’s reaction to cannabinoids varies based on the product they use and how long they use it.

To date, there isn’t a definite way to differentiate between cannabinoids in commercial urine drug tests. Delta-8 products should be avoided if you are going to take a drug test through urine samples. Although Delta-8 is legal through hemp, a drug test will likely fail if it is in your system. Aside from the kind of drug test administered, other factors that distinguish the detection of Delta-8 are your metabolism and weight, gender, and age. 

To understand THC drug tests, you must know how they work. Delta 9 THC metabolites are commonly thought to be the target of the test. To date, most drug tests aren’t capable of detecting the presence of the drug in the system. What they usually determine, though, are the THC metabolites—not the specific cannabinoid type. Tests using urine, for instance, look for THC-COOH, Delta 9 THC’s principal inactive metabolite.

Due to their storage in our fat cells, we can detect these metabolites in the urine after use. A false positive might be considered if you don’t have Delta 9 THC in your system. In the same way, you may be able to reason out that the Delta-8 product you’re using contains 0.3% Delta 9 THC or less.

The likelihood is that you’ll show positive results on a THC drug test, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be punishable by law. Communicate with whoever you need to take a drug test for. Get their confirmation or approval ahead of time that you can use the Delta-8 product. Much of the country still struggles with hemp issues. Industrial hemp, however, is increasingly accepted.

How Long will Delta-8 Stay in the body?

Even weeks after you have used a substance, your body may still show signs. Delta-8 THC still has a long half-life in the body despite its lower strength. The drug’s track can remain with you for as long as a few months, depending on which kind of drug test you take.

According to some experts, the metabolites of Delta-8 THC products can remain in the urine for up to 60 days. This range can vary from individual to individual. Many factors can affect the duration of Delta-8 THC metabolites in your body, including your age, weight, metabolism, the half-life of the drug, the frequency of use, and your level of hydration.

Passing a Drug Test as a Delta-8 Consumer

You could speed up Delta-8 THC metabolism by drinking a lot of water regularly. Consequently, if you know of an upcoming drug test, it’s better not to consume Delta-8 for now. Most experts believe that Delta-8 THC leaves your body within 3-4 weeks, but it truly depends on your habits and metabolism. Before taking a drug test, you can perform an at-home drug test to check for the presence of THC-COOH in your urine. The level of accuracy, however, is not 100%.

Types of Delta-8 THC Products

Distillates are the starting point of all Delta-8 THC products. You can use the distillate as-is, add it to cartridges, infuse it with gummy candies, dilute it into oils or tinctures, or fill capsules with it—an overview of the most common forms of Delta-8 THC available today can be found below.

  • Delta-8 THC Tinctures

Since the last couple of years, CBD oils and tinctures have become a promising health supplement for many people. In this form, Delta-8 THC offers all the same advantages. Their price is reasonable and allows you to consume more accurate dosages. Your tincture’s potency matters a lot, though. There are tinctures available in a wide range of potencies. So if you’re not familiar with hemp entirely, it’s always best to start with the minimum dosage. To avoid taking too much Delta-8 THC by mistake, always follow the label directions.

  • Delta-8 THC Distillates

Delta-8 THC is found in distillates, which are concentrated forms. A Delta-8 THC distillate is available in a thick and syrupy form and is usually pure. You can expect to pay a reasonable price with this kind of Delta-8. You may consume it as it is, adds on the vape, or smoke in a rig. 

  • Delta-8 THC Honey

A limitation to any cannabinoid, including Delta-8 THC, can only be dissolved in fat or alcohol. As a solvent, honey shares similar characteristics with alcohol and fats – primarily sucrose and other simple sugars. Therefore, honey bases can be diffused with high concentrations of cannabinoids. Delta-8 THC honey has been gaining popularity as a substitute for tinctures and gummies lately. There are now more suppliers and vendors carrying this Delta-8 product. A premeasured tube of Delta-8 THC contains around 20–40 mg and about 10 mL of honey.

  • Delta-8 THC Gummies

Using cannabis products in the form of gummies is another popular method. Almost any cannabinoid can be used to make gummies like conventional CBD or even Delta 9. Delta-8 THC gummies utilize the same approach of filling delicious fruity gummies with specific doses of the psychoactive substance (usually 10 or 20 mg each).

  • Delta-8 THC Cartridges

In the current market, Delta-8 THC cartridges are the most popular for now. They are the fastest-acting form of cannabinoid and are more effective than any other Delta-8 product. A vape pen only needs a few puffs to produce strong effects.

Nearly every vendor sells cartridges (called carts) in the Delta-8 THC space. To enhance the experience, some carts contain different flavors of flavor additives or e-liquid. There is no flavor to the distillate used in the Delta-8 THC cartridge, and there is no visible vapor when it’s used.

Wrap Up

Due to its laid-back character, Delta-8 THC has quickly caught the attention of cannabis users due to its low likelihood of causing anxiety or paranoia. You can see a broader range of items on many reputable websites where you can buy D8 products in your area. The fact that it’s legal on the federal level also makes it an appealing alternative for residents of states where marijuana is illegal.

However, if you must undergo regular drug tests at your workplace, you should know that Delta-8 THC can cause you to fail the test. Also, many scams and fake Delta-8 companies are trying to deceive customers today, so do your research! Avoid a supplier that does not test their Delta-8 product for safety and potency content. These tests help distinguish a reputable supplier from a scammy, unethical, or low-grade business.