What is Delta-8 THC?
According to the FDA, Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8 THC) is a psychoactive substance found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Usually, cannabis products that produce a “high” feeling contain Delta-9 THC. Delta-8 has a similar chemical structure as Delta-9, so it causes a “high” feeling like other THC products; however, it is derived from a different part of the plant that has a less intense “high”. Nevertheless, it is important to know that despite what you may hear, Delta-8 is NOT a safer alternative.
Some people feel that Delta-8 causes fewer side effects than Delta-9 THC such as paranoia, anxiety, and drowsiness; however, this has not been proven and varies greatly depending on the individual, method of consumption, and amount consumed.
How is Delta-8 THC made?
Delta-8 THC is one of over 100 cannabinoids produced naturally by the cannabis plant, but is not found in large amounts in the cannabis plant. As a result, concentrated amounts of Delta-8 THC are typically manufactured from hemp-derived cannabinol (CBD). This means that Delta-8 products are all synthetically manufactured. Because Delta-8 is made in a lab and not regulated by the FDA, it can be risky to consume.
There is little oversight or quality control in the manufacturing process, meaning even Delta-8 you can purchase in a dispensary can contain varying amounts of THC or additional harmful additives.
To learn more about the differences between CBD and THC check out this blog.
Is Delta-8 THC Legal?
Delta-8 is regulated the same way as other cannabis products meaning it is only legal to use recreationally over the age of 21.
Unlike traditional Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 is legal in most states because Delta-8 THC is normally extracted from the CBD in hemp. However, it falls under a legal gray area which means you could face charges for using it depending on your state’s laws.
Resources:
FDA: https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/what-is-delta-8
USA Today: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2023/04/29/is-delta-8-legal/11530893002/