What is Delta 8 THC?

This is a guide to help you learn about what Delta 8 THC is, how it differs from Delta 9 and the benefits that come along with it.

The Cannabinoid That Is Gaining Popularity

Now that cannabinoids are more widely discussed, many have begun to be singled out and have gained popularity for their analgesic properties. Delta 8 is one of the many outstanding cannabinoids that has been gaining in popularity throughout 2020.

Due to the gain in popularity, many folks are beginning to hear more about it and are curious what all the buzz is about. If you have only now stumbled upon it and want to know more, keep reading below and get the facts here with Dr.Ganja.

What are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds in the form of resin that is secreted from hemp plants. They have the ability to interact with receptors throughout the human body that can play a role in regulating functions and processes such as sleep, mood, appetite and memory. They can also play a role in reproduction and fertility. 

Endocannabinoids are also known as endogenous cannabinoids. They are molecules made by your body alone. When you introduce other cannabinoids into your system, they bind to the two main endocannabinoid receptors known as CB1 and CB2. 

CB1 receptors are mostly found in the central nervous system. CB2 receptors are found in your peripheral nervous system, but more importantly in the immune cells. 

There are over 100 known cannabinoids currently being studied, but scientists believe there are many more that are yet to be discovered. THC and CBD are the most well known and more thoroughly researched of all the cannabinoids to date. To learn more about CBD, take a look at Dr.Ganja’s blog post, What is CBD?

Delta 8 THC vs Delta 9 THC

Delta 9 THC or D9 is the main psychoactive ingredient in the hemp plant. It is the compound that causes a user to feel high. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is usually used interchangeably with Delta 9 because most THC is D9, but there is a difference as we have come to find out with Delta 8 THC as it is another form of THC.

Molecular Structure

D8 and D9 THC are very similar in their molecular structure. Both contain double bonds, but the D8 consists of a double bond on the 8th carbon chain. D9 consists of a double bond on the 9th carbon chain. Both react alike within the Endocannabinoid receptors in the body because of their similarities in structure and properties.

Delta 8 THC or D8 (Δ8-THC) is simply another cannabinoid, but is classified as an isomer. It develops as the Delta 9 THC ages and oxidizes. As this natural process occurs, it increases the stability of the D8 molecular structure. This is beneficial as it will not degrade as quickly, which extends its lifetime.

D8 is not commonly found in large quantities in hemp plants. It must be carefully extracted and that is why it is most frequently found in the form of distillates or edibles. 

Psychoactive Effects

Like Delta 9-THC, D8 also offers psychoactive and euphoric effects, but to a lesser extent. Claims have been made that D8 offers a clearer high that enables the user to remain productive throughout their day.

D8 helps the user enjoy the benefits of THC with the unwanted side effects often felt like paranoia, anxiety or over drowsiness caused by over consumption. Scientists think this is likely caused by a lower affinity for binding to CB1 receptors in the body, which causes a lessened effect. 

Benefits of Delta 8-THC

As we learn more about D8 and how it works, scientists have described it as an “analogue” of THC with antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite increasing, analgesic and neuroprotective properties. 

What does this all mean? Antiemetic properties will combat nausea and vomiting, while its anxiolytic properties will reduce anxiety. It can lend improvements in appetite for those who need to boost their nutritional intake, as well as relieve muscle pain by reducing inflammation and potentially offer improved cognition.

Again, it has a lower potency than Delta 9 THC, but still offers a similar high and positive effects typical of the hemp plant. There is still limited research on Delta 8 THC due to the low quantities found in hemp plants, but it still remains promising for those seeking an alternative to D9-THC.

Is Delta 8 THC Legal?

The Delta 8 THC vape cartridges and eatables found on the market today are legally derived from hemp. It contains less than 0.3% D9-THC and is in accordance with the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 (also known as the 2018 Farm Bill).

The 2018 Farm Bill states that all derivatives, isomers and cannabinoids found in hemp are all federally legal as long as all final products contain less than 0.3% D9-THC. However, state and province laws may vary. 

Where Can I buy Delta 8 THC?

Hemp product is all over the web, but always be sure of your hemp derived commodity source. Dr. Ganja is a reputable source for the best Delta-8 THC products found in the hemp market today. You will get only the best hemp derived Delta-8 products from Dr.Ganja in distillate or edible forms.

Get D8 distillate with all natural terpenes to vape from trustworthy companies like 8Delta8, Rogue Rivers Labs, 3Chi, Triangle Trading Co, Delta Farms and more!

If you prefer edibles, check out D8 edibles from 3Chi or Pure Xen.

Don’t forget to stay tuned in to the Dr.Ganja Blog for more information on D8-THC as more research on this excellent cannabinoid continues to grow. And please leave a comment if you have any questions or would like to share your experience with Delta 8 THC.