What is Delta 8 THC?

What is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 is a minor cannabinoid that naturally occurs in small amounts in hemp. Hemp and cannabis have over 112 confirmed cannabinoids, with new cannabinoids being discovered as research increases, providing us with access to novel cannabinoids besides just CBD and Delta-9 THC, cannabis’ most famous cannabinoid. Delta 8 can also be abbreviated as: D8THC, Δ8THC, Δ8, D8, and D8-THC. 

Delta 8 and Delta 9 have a slightly different molecular arrangement, producing slightly different effects. Its importance lies in its ability to provide similar benefits of medical cannabis like alleviating pain, and promoting relaxation without the paranoia and diminished effects associated with Delta-9-THC. This makes Delta 8 the perfect alternative to those seeking medicinal benefits without the inhibiting side effects 

Legalities of Delta-8-THC 

 

Perhaps the most common question we receive is about the legalities of Delta 8. Delta 8 was made legal by H.R. 2: The Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, commonly referred to as the 2018 Farm Bill. The bill amended Delta 8’s legality when it made all derivatives, isomers and cannabinoids of hemp legal, so long as it contained less than 0.3% Delta-9-THC. 

Prior to the passing of the 2018 bill, Delta 8 and other hemp-derived cannabinoids, were classified as a controlled substance named in the Controlled Substances Act. H.R.2 specifically included text removing all confusion between laws amending the Controlled Substances Act excluding Delta 8 from hemp. 

While Delta 8 is federally legal, it still remains illegal in a few states that specifically exclude it and other hemp derived cannabinoids.

Delta-8-THC Effects

As with all cannabinoids, the effects of Delta 8 can vary person to person. The best way to describe the common experience is through a combination of the effects of CBD (calming, centering, anti-inflammatory) and those of Delta 9 THC (uplifting, mood boosting, euphoric), without the paranoia or added anxiety. 

With proper dosing, Delta 8 users reported feeling far more functional than with using the Delta-9-THC counterpart. Some negative effects, although rare, can occur, including upset stomach, drowsiness, dry mouth, red eyes, and headache. 

Dosing Delta-8-THC

The onset times of Delta 8 will vary depending on the method of consumption and the tolerance inherent in each individual. Since the onset effects are typically slightly more delayed than Delta-9-THC effects, we’d recommend that users take D8 products as listed on the packaging to decide what dosage and frequency of use is most beneficial to them. A rule of thumb in all cannabinoid consumption is to start low and add slow. Remember, everybody’s physical and chemical compositions are unique, and doses should be individualized to take these factors into account! 

A typical Delta-8-THC oral dosage is about 10-15mg (for vapes, 1-3 second puffs). We recommend starting with 10mg or less if you’re aware of your cannabinoid sensitivity, and build up your dosage as desired. Potency varies from individual to individual. 

How Long Do Delta-8-THC Effects Last? 

The length of Delta-8-THC effects will always vary person to person. Vapes can last anywhere from 1-3 hours, with tinctures and edibles lasting anywhere from 2-12 hours. The larger the dose, the longer the effects. Some effects can also be harder to detect, particularly in Delta 8 products, where the traditional “high” is different from Delta-9-THC. Some of the mood boosting effects of Delta 8, for example, can be subtle and difficult to notice. 

In Conclusion 

We at HI On Nature are excited about the benefits and, moreover, access to these benefits that hemp-derived Delta-8-THC provides. We invite you to try the uplifting, stress relieving, anti-inflammatory benefits of Delta-8-THC in whichever way you’re most comfortable. Check out our edibles, vapes, tinctures, dabbles, and flower to learn more. 

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