Delta 8 THC

What is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC, also referred to as D8, Delta 8, and Delta 8 Tetrahydrocannabinol, is an isomer of cannabidiol or “CBD”. It is another type of cannabinoid found in the hemp plant like CBD, CBG, CBC, CBDv, and so on. Despite its name, it does not have the same kind of intoxicating effects as delta 9 THC. While delta 8 can alter and elevate your mood, it is far less intoxicating and much more functional than Delta 9 THC. It can give a moderate “buzz” but without the same levels of intoxication, anxieties, or paranoia typically associated with delta 9 THC.

How Delta 8 THC Works

Delta 8 THC has antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. Delta 8 THC binds to the cannabinoid G-protein that is coupled with the CB1 receptor, which is located in the central nervous system. Delta 9 THC is traditionally known for its antispastic effects while Delta 8 THC is known to exhibit a lower psychotropic potency than its primary form of THC found in cannabis. It offers similar relief in issues such as anxiety, pain, and prevention of nerve cells. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) notes that Delta 8 THC exhibits a lower psychotropic potency than Delta 9 THC. Researchers have estimated the potency to ⅔ that of Delta 9 THC.

Delta 8 THC for Anxiety

For those that experience anxiousness every time they ingest high doses of Delta 9 THC and aren’t able to enjoy the cannabinoids medical benefits, may benefit from the use of Delta 8 THC as an alternative. Delta 8 THC is much less likely to induce anxiety in high doses than its more known counterpart Delta 9 THC.

Delta 8 THC as a Sedative

Delta 8 THC is often described as an easier, more tolerable version of traditional THC, producing a semi- sedative physical effect without much mental stimulation that allows users to stay focused while getting the same soothing effects that can be expected from THC.

Delta 8 THC for Pain and Inflammation

A study done in 2018 by Thapa et al. found that topical Delta 8 THC decreased corneal pain and inflammation in an experimental mouse model. The effects are most likely mediated through CB1r. “The beneficial effects of CB1r activation in animal models include reduction of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations, increased compliance of proximal stomach, reduced acid secretion, reduction of GI transit, reduced intestinal fluid secretion in response to secretagogues and reduced large intestinal propulsive activity are all aspects that could be beneficial in functional bowel disorders such as IBS.” 

NOTES ON THE INTOXICATING EFFECTS OF DELTA 8 THC:

Delta 9 THC is the primary intoxicating component of cannabis. Although Delta 8 THC is not present enough in most strains of flower to have a more noticeable effect than Delta 9 THC. When taken in higher concentrations it can elicit psychotropic effects. Consumers also report experiencing pervasive body sensations, relaxation, and clear-headedness with lower psychotropic effects. Delta 8 is also known to contain properties that may help reduce stress, tension, stimulate appetite and reduce nausea. 

CAN I PASS A DRUG TEST ON DELTA 8 THC?

With Delta 8 THC having minimal drug testing research, it is not clear if a consumer of Delta 8 THC products would fail or pass a drug test. We have had consumer reports of both positive and negative drug tests while using Delta 8 products. Because Delta 8 THC is so closely related to Delta 9 THC it is possible it can show up positively on a drug test the same way Delta 9 THC would. Most traditional drug screen panels test for the presence of cannabinoids, delta 8 THC being a cannabinoid. It is not typical that a common drug screen panel would screen for certain cannabinoids to know if the consumer is using delta 8 or 9 THC. All cannabinoids are assumed to show the presence of cannabis in this case. It is advised that the use of any products that contain THC content should be used at your own discretion. 

SUMMARY

Delta 8 THC does present therapeutic potential. It may provide a more relaxed and reasonable alternative to delta 9 THC with many of the same effects. Like CBD it is known to reduce anxiety instead of amplifying it, which can happen using delta 9 THC. It may also be better for chronic pain, nausea, and appetite issues.

What is the effect of Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 THC gives a very clear-headed, engaged high, with zero anxiety or fogginess. While it can alter and elevate your mood, it is far less intoxicating and much more functional without the paranoia associated with Delta-9 THC. Our customers also reported the following:

• Clear head
• Calm
• Focus
• Happy
• Motivated
• Relaxation
• Anti-nausea