What are the effects of Delta 8 THC? (2022 Guide)
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You've probably heard about the various effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (or just THC for short).
However, what you're likely thinking about is Delta-9 THC, which comes from marijuana.
Delta-8 THC comes from hemp.
So, what are the effects of Delta-8 THC?
Great question!
That's what we're going to answer in this blog post.
Let's go.
What is a Cannabinoid?
When discussing the effects of Delta 8 THC, we must start with cannabinoids.
What are cannabinoids?
In short, a cannabinoid is any chemical derived from cannabis. Cannabis is a species of plant which includes marijuana and hemp.
If we wanted to get into legal definitions, in the U.S., "hemp" refers to cannabis containing 0.3% of Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis.
There are at least 113 different cannabinoids that have been isolated from cannabis.
Common cannabinoids used in products include:
- Cannabidiol (CBD)
- Delta-9 THC
- Delta-8 THC
- Cannabigerol (CBG)
- Cannabinol (CBN)
Now that we have cannabinoids covered let's dive a little bit deeper with THC.
What is Tetrahydrocannabinol?
As mentioned before, tetrahydrocannabinol is a cannabinoid.
It is prominent in marijuana, and limited in hemp.
The term "THC" can refer to Delta-8, Delta-9, or other variants.
What makes THC so unique?
The human body has an endocannabinoid system (or just ECS).
The ECS is a neurotransmitter network that helps the human body maintain homeostasis or just "stable conditions."
Throughout this system, there are cannabinoid receptors.
Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC bind to these receptors but with differing outcomes.
What is the Difference Between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC?
Chemically speaking, Delta-9 and Delta-8 are isomers, meaning they have the same formula but a different arrangement and different effects.
Delta-8 has a chemical bond on its eighth carbon chain, and Delta-9 has a bond on its ninth.
Although this may seem like a "minor" difference, they are a significant factor in the effects produced and degree.
How Can You Take Delta-8 THC?
To discuss "What are the effects of Delta-8 THC," we must examine the various ways you can take Delta-8.
How you decide to take Delta-8 plays a role in its effects and the timeframe they set in.
There are three main methods for taking Delta-8:
- Inhalation
- Edibles
- Tinctures
Inhalation
When Delta-8 is inhaled through smoking and vaping. Inhalation allows for a more direct path of Delta-8 to the bloodstream, thus producing a fast onset of the effects.
Edibles
Gummies, food items, or food additives fall under the "edibles" category for taking Delta-8. Edibles take a more extended "route" to the bloodstream, first having to go through the digestive system. This method produces the slowest yet longest-lasting onset of effects.
Tinctures
When consuming Delta-8 through a tincture, you're taking it with a dropper placed under the tongue. Much like the lungs, the tissue underneath your tongue is a direct path to the bloodstream. While this method is faster than edibles, it is still slower than inhalation.
What Are the Effects of Delta-8 THC?
Now that you have the necessary background for understanding cannabinoids, THC, and how to take Delta-8 THC, we can dive into the effects.
Some of the common sensations reported by Delta-8 enthusiasts have included:
- A sense of wellbeing
- Relaxation
- Calmness
- Mild euphoria
As a cannabinoid, Delta-8 is more acute and noticeable than CBD. However, it is less potent with different results compared to Delta-9.
You might find that the sensations you experience with Delta-8 are familiar to those of Delta-9 but different enough to give you a unique experience.
Trying Delta-8
Now that you have an idea of the effects of Delta-8, you might be curious to try it.
In general, Delta-8 is seen as a milder cannabinoid but not as gentle as CBD.
Still, there are steps that you want to take when trying Delta-8 for the first time.
Overall, you want to take a slow, careful approach.
The main reason is there are many factors that play a part in the degree of the effects felt from Delta-8.
There's the method of consumption as mentioned earlier, but those effects can change from person to person.
Here are a few things to consider when trying Delta-8:
- Start out small; you can always work your way "up," but there's no going back
- Take note of measurements and dosages for future reference
- Try out different types of Delta-8 consumption to find what works best for you
For a more in-depth guide, check out our blog post, "Delta 8 THC Dosage Guide: How to Determine Your Optimal Dosage."
Can Delta-8 THC Be Used Medicinally?
Due to FDA guidelines, we are not at liberty to discuss any potential health benefits, if any, of Delta-8 THC.
The best person to consult for this type of information would be your physician or preferred medical professional.
We also encourage you to do your research using reliable sources to draw your well-informed conclusions.
Conclusion/Questions
What are the effects of Delta-8 THC?
To summarize:
- Delta-8 THC is a cannabinoid that is derived from hemp
- THC could mean Delta-8, Delta-9, or other compounds
- Delta-8 bonds to cannabinoid receptors, with an effect that differs from Delta-9
- How you take Delta-8 plays a significant role in the degree of its impact and its onset
- Some of the common effects reported by those who enjoy Delta-8 include a sense of wellbeing, relaxation, calmness, and mild euphoria
- When exploring the possibility of the medicinal benefits of Delta-8 THC, it's best to consult a physician
Is there anything we forgot to cover?
We want to help!
If you have any questions about Delta-8's effects or just about Delta-8 in general, we would be glad to answer.
How do the effects differ with gummies versus tinctures?
Does smoking Delta-8 affect you differently from vaping it?
Let us know in the comments, or contact us through:
- Email: store@hometownhero.com
- Phone: (512) 551-0345
- Social Media: @HometownHeroCBD
We have experts on standby who would be more than glad to answer your questions.
