Exciting things are happening in the cannabis industry, and it has something to do with new products containing Delta 8 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). Since its introduction in the market in 2020, it has gained massive attention among cannabis users because of the premise that products containing Delta 8 sell as legal, even in the U.S. states where cannabis has a controlled statute.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 is a cannabinoid derived from the cannabis plant. It is a chemical cousin of Delta 9 THC, the most commonly known psychoactive cannabinoid, and used in many cannabis products. But in recent years, Delta 8 THC product sales have been rapidly increasing. for several reasons:
- It is less potent than Delta 9
- It has fewer side effects
- It has a less euphoric effect
- It calms, relaxes, and relieves stress
- It is relatively legal to sell and purchase
Delta 8 is dubbed “Marijuana Lite” because it tastes and smells the same as high-quality marijuana but with a less intoxicating effect.
What are the common effects of Delta 8?
People use Delta 8 THC products for different reasons, including medicinal, recreational, and ease emotional and mental distress. There is not enough research to identify the full range of effects of Delta 8 THC, but some of the most reported effects by users are:
- Pain relief
- Mood enhancer
- Relieves stress
- Appetite booster
- Cognitive enhancer
- Prevents nausea
Some reported side effects include:
- Slows heart rate
- Numbness
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Hypotension
Delta 8 THC product users report that the product can get you “high” but not as intoxicating as the Delta 9 experience.
Is Delta 8 THC safe?
There is a general uncertainty when using cannabinoids like Delta 8 because of the lack of current studies. But cannabinoids, in general, are revealed to have positive therapeutic effects on those experiencing chronic nerve pain, multiple sclerosis, and vomiting during chemotherapy.
Delta 8 THC products are unregulated and not approved by the FDA, and that is one of the major concerns of the federal government and health experts. Manufacturers may not be doing proper extraction and leave traces of harmful chemicals. Contaminants may also be present during packaging.
When products are bought from a safe source and consumed in moderation, you can reap their benefits. After all, it is not poisonous nor lethal, and many studies have already established that cannabinoids can have medicinal therapeutic effects. According to reviews, most who have experienced respiratory and cardiovascular adverse effects are those from chronic users.
Is Delta 8 federally legal?
The Delta 8 THC gained so much popularity because it is currently legal to sell and buy, even in U.S. states where marijuana is considered a narcotic. There are some rising concerns and protests about it, but manufacturers and users seem to find a loophole with the 2018 Farm Bill.
According to this bill, hemp can be cultivated legally and extracted for use in various products. And since Delta 8 THC is hemp-derived, it is therefore considered legal. The bill also states that it is permitted if the Delta 9 concentration is not above 0.3%. This entry is another loophole because the statement only specifically mentioned Delta 9 and not Delta 8.
But because the product is unregulated, there may be concerns about improper labeling. For instance, in a private lab test on various Delta-8 products by the U.S. Cannabis Council, they identified that the majority of the products contain Delta 9 compounds.
Does Delta 8 show up on a lab test?
Current urine tests cannot differentiate cannabinoids, so it cannot tell whether it’s a Delta 8 or Delta 9. This means if you have taken Delta 8 and show up positive on a urine drug test, you cannot use the supposed legality of Delta 8 as an excuse.
Urine drug tests detect Delta 9 THC metabolites, and Delta 8 THC traces may also appear in the urine test. Everyone processes THC differently, so it is best to steer clear of THCs for several days if you are about to take a drug test.
Can I order Delta 8 online legally?
It bears repeating, but when concerning all legal information, consult a professional attorney.
Delta 8 THC is a new player in the market, so it can be challenging to find one, particularly if you’re looking for a good source seller. You can start by searching for Delta 8 sellers near you. There are two ways to purchase Delta 8 products—via dispensaries and through online shops.
Purchase via a dispensary is more advantageous because you get to see the quality of the product before purchasing it. Dispensaries operate under state regulations and will also keep your records confidential. On the downside, there may be fewer product choices, so you must settle with what’s on hand.
Purchasing your product online is convenient and gives you more product choices. The downside is that you put your contact details at risk if the online shop turns out to be fraudulent or a black market dealer. There is also the chance that the product you buy is substandard.
When purchasing online, check the dealer’s website for information on how they source and manufacture their products. Check for a batch number for quality control and lab test seal, if any. Finally, check the regulations and legality of purchasing hemp in your state before contacting a dealer.
The Takeaway
The Delta 8 THC craze seems to have opened a door for hemp users to gain more access to THC products legally. While it is less concerning because Delta 8 has reduced potency and fewer side effects, the apprehension is regarding extraction and production.
Many states still see it as a cause of concern healthwise and have banned its sales in several states. They say it is due to the lack of medical studies stating its efficacy, safety, and long-term effects. Ironically, because it is labeled illegal, clinical studies are hindered from using it for ethical reasons. Until the federal government and the medical field find a unified stand on the matter of hemp, legality issues will continue to press on a little longer.
