If you’ve noticed signs popping up at local tobacco shops and gas stations claiming "We sell delta-8 gummies" or "We have delta-8 vape products," you might be wondering what exactly they’re selling. What is delta-8, and how does it differ from other hemp, THC, or CBD products?
Delta-8 THC is a newly popular psychoactive substance derived from hemp and cannabis, gaining attention across the U.S., particularly in states where recreational marijuana (delta-9 THC) remains illegal. Despite its growing popularity, there is still much to learn about this compound, as clinical trials are in the early stages and its effects are not fully understood.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the legality, safety, benefits, and risks associated with delta-8 THC, and how it compares to other cannabinoids and THC products.
The Rise of Delta-8 THC
The popularity of delta-8 THC has surged recently. According to the FDA, of the 661 cases reported, 660 occurred between January 1, 2021, and July 31, 2021. Key insights from these reports include:
- 41% of delta-8 THC cases involved "unintentional exposure," with 77% affecting patients under 18 years of age.
- 39% of all cases involved patients under 18 years of age.
- 18% of cases required hospitalization, including young patients who needed intensive care following exposure to delta-8 THC products.
Effects and Potential Benefits of Delta-8 THC
Early reports suggest that delta-8 THC shares similarities with delta-9 THC (the compound in recreational marijuana) but with a lower psychoactive potency. Users often describe the high from delta-8 as similar to a mild form of micro-dosing marijuana, where the effects are less intense.
Proponents of delta-8 THC claim it offers several benefits, including:
- Promoting healthy sleep
- Alleviating pain and inflammation
- Improving body balance by regulating serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate
- Stimulating appetite
- Inhibiting nausea and vomiting
- Providing neuroprotective properties
However, it's important to note that these benefits can often be obtained from other more thoroughly researched natural sources, such as CBD, which has a more established safety profile.
How Is Delta-8 THC Consumed?
Delta-8 THC is available in various forms, each affecting how the cannabinoid is absorbed and processed by the body. The most popular method of consumption is through gummies, but other common forms include vape cartridges, vape pens, e-liquids, capsules, and tinctures.
Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 THC: What’s the Difference?
While delta-8 and delta-9 THC are closely related cannabinoids found in the Cannabis Sativa plant, they differ slightly in their chemical structure. Delta-8 THC has a double bond on the eighth carbon chain, while delta-9 has it on the ninth carbon chain. This subtle difference contributes to the lower psychoactive potency of delta-8.
Interestingly, delta-8 is often derived from the breakdown of THC, which could explain its association with the "munchies" effect commonly experienced with marijuana use.
Delta-8 vs. CBD: Key Differences
Delta-8 THC and CBD are both derived from cannabis but have notable differences. The most significant difference lies in their effects on the mind:
- CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a high or feelings of euphoria, making it primarily used for medicinal purposes.
- Delta-8 THC, although found in lower concentrations in cannabis, is psychoactive and causes intoxication. This makes it a candidate for recreational use alongside its potential medicinal benefits.
How Long Does Delta-8 THC Stay in Your System?
The duration that delta-8 THC stays in your system depends on several factors, including the delivery method (gummies vs. vape) and the frequency/amount of use. Early research indicates that delta-8 and delta-9 THC have similar half-lives, approximately 30 minutes. Delta-8 can be detected in:
- Saliva: 1 to 4 hours
- Urine: 2 to 4 weeks
- Hair follicle tests: Over 90 days
Is Delta-8 THC Legal?
The legality of delta-8 THC is currently a gray area. It was made federally legal under the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, which legalized all derivatives, isomers, and cannabinoids of hemp as long as the final product contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. However, the wording of the farm bill left loopholes, leading to the legal sale of many delta-8 products, such as gummies and vape concentrates.
Is Delta-8 THC Safe?
As with any new drug, the long-term effects of delta-8 THC have not been thoroughly studied. The lack of regulation has allowed some manufacturers to sell products with potentially harmful side effects. The FDA has expressed concerns about the safety of delta-8 THC products, stating:
"The FDA is aware of the growing concerns surrounding delta-8 THC products currently being sold online and in stores. These products have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for safe use in any context. Some concerns include variability in product formulations and product labeling, other cannabinoid and terpene content, and variable delta-8 THC concentrations."
Can People in Recovery Safely Use Delta-8 THC Products?
For individuals with a history of substance use disorder or those at risk of developing one, using delta-8 THC is not advisable for several reasons:
- Delta-8 THC is a psychoactive substance and can produce a high, unlike other hemp or CBD products.
- Legal and safety risks: The production of delta-8 THC products is not well-regulated, raising concerns about their safety and the intentions of those manufacturing them.
- Relapse risks: People in recovery are taught to recognize warning signs of relapse. The desire to use delta-8 could indicate underlying issues such as anxiety, stress, depression, or the urge to revisit old habits.
If you or someone you know is considering using delta-8 THC, it’s essential to evaluate the motivations behind this decision and consider implementing a relapse prevention plan.
