Delta-8: What is it and how does it work?
You've probably heard of the two most well-known cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9 THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), butresearch shows that cannabis contains many other beneficial cannabinoids. There are other similar products on the market that are attracting attention.
What is delta-8-THC?
Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, also called delta-8-THC, is a psychoactive cannabinoid with similar effects to delta-9 THC, the main psychoactive substance in cannabis that produces a euphoric high. Although delta-8 and delta-9-THC are similar, their chemical structures are slightly different. Research shows that delta-8 has a slightly weaker binding to the CB1 receptor than delta-9, which mitigates its effects.
Delta-8 can be found in many different forms such as jelly beans, candies, vaping pens, oils, tinctures, and more.
What are the positive effects of delta-8?
Since there is not much scientific research and clinical studies on delta-8-THC, most of the possible beneficial effects of this substance are based on marketing claims. Since delta-8 is similar to THC, consumers may get some similar effects from taking it. Like delta-9-THC, delta-8 produces feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and pain relief, but to a much lesser degree.
Problems for which delta-8 may help include:
- Pain relief,
- insomnia problems,
- anxiety,
- nausea.
Further studies on delta-8 are needed to determine how it affects the human body and what potential benefits it may provide to consumers.
Side effects of delta-8-THC
There is also a lack of research and data on the effects of delta-8 on overall health. Because delta-8 is very similar to delta-9-THC, it alsoproduces some of the same side effects, such as:
- Red eyes,
- dry mouth,
- increased heart rate,
- difficulty coordinating movement,
- slowed reactions,
- anxiety,
- memory lapses,
- states of paranoia.
It should be noted that delta-8 has not yet been studied in detail and more research is needed on its effects on the mind and body. If you try products containing delta-8 and experience any of the above side effects, inform your doctor immediately.
Delta-8 THC vs. THC vs. CBD
CBD: not psychoactive. Possible beneficial effects include relief from chronic pain, anxiety and depression.
Delta-8-THC: is a mixture of CBD and delta-9-THC. It is apsychoactive and intoxicating cannabinoid. The fundamental difference between CBD and delta-8-THC is thatconsumers experience euphoric feelings after consuming delta-8-THC.
THC: is the active cannabinoid that causes the feeling of intoxication. Itproduces states of euphoria but also has a range of side effects such as panic attacks and reduced mental performance. Delta 9-THC is more psychoactive than delta 8-THC.
Chemically, delta-8 and delta-9 are similar because they both have a double bond in their structure, but differ in the location of the double bond. Both cannabinoids are formed by a chain of carbon atoms, delta-8 has a double bond on the eighth carbon, while delta-9 has a double bond on the ninth carbon. Due to the location of the double bond, delta-8 binds to the endocannabinoid system in a slightly different manner. Therefore, delta-8 is believed to be much less potent than conventional THC.
Is delta-8 legal?
No, delta-8 THC is not legal. It is included in the list of banned psychotropic substances (463/2013 Coll., List 4). If you are considering using a delta-8 product, then we recommend that you first check the laws in your state and possibly contact a licensed health professional to verify that the product is indeed safe.
Will delta-8 prove itself in a drug test?
Unfortunately, there is not yet enough scientific data to determine if taking delta-8-THC will cause a positive drug test result. Since it is a cannabinoid with similar effects to delta-9 or regular THC, it is reasonable to assume that delta-8 will show up in a test for delta-9. If you are going to take a drug test, it is best to avoid products with delta-8.
Is delta-8 THC safe?
Delta-8 THC products have not yet been evaluated or approved as safe. Experts say the most risky factor is untested and unlicensed vaping refills containing delta-8-THC, which are sold on the unregulated market.
Is there an alternative to delta-8?
If you're looking for a legal alternative to delta-8 that won't make you feel euphoric, it's definitely worth considering trying CBD. You can purchase CBD products fromour online store. You can choose from a wide range of products such as oils, capsules, flowers and more.
Wondering what other cannabinoids are contained in cannabis? You can read about them on our blog! For example, read the article about the cannabinoid CBG, which has many medicinal effects.
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