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People plugged into the world of cannabis-related news are probably well aware that there’s some controversy surrounding delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive compound that some claim is legal at the federal level because of certain loopholes.
But if you’re new to cannabis products, you might find the whole thing a bit confusing. Is delta-8 THC actually legal? How is it different from other forms of THC?
Below, we’ll dig deeper into delta-8, including its potential benefits and risks, whether it’ll get you “high,” whether it’s legal, and what kinds of alternatives are out there.
Delta-8 THC is a psychoactive compound that’s pretty similar to delta-9 THC. Delta-9 THC is a compound in the cannabis plant that produces a “high.” It’s what people are usually referring to when they talk about THC.
Though delta-8 is similar to delta-9 THC, it has a slightly different chemical structure that makes it a lot less potent.
Like delta-9 THC, delta-8 produces feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and potential pain relief, but they’re a lot milder.
For people who don’t want to experience a pronounced “high,” the lower potency may be a benefit.
Unfortunately, researchers still don’t know enough about delta-8 THC to confirm that the benefits outweigh the risks. Experts have a much better understanding of delta-9 THC.
What are the potential risks of delta-8?
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What are the potential risks of delta-8?
Because delta-8 is so similar to delta-9 THC, it produces some of the same side effects, like:
- red eyes
- dry mouth
- rapid heart rate
- trouble with coordination
- slowed reaction times
- anxiety
- memory loss
But delta-8 may also have additional risks because it’s something synthetically produced, meaning you might not know what’s really in it.
Additionally, according to an article published in the journal Chemical and Engineering News, products containing delta-8 may also contain delta-9 and delta-10 THC — a compound about which little is known.
These compounds probably won’t produce ill effects, experts say. But it’s unclear whether other by-products, including synthetic ones, are safe to consume.
Because delta-8 is so similar to delta-9 THC, it will also cause a “high.” However, some people describe it as milder than with delta-9 THC.
Here’s the complicated bit.
The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp containing less than 0.3 percent delta-9 THC. That means there’s a loophole at the federal level for products containing higher amounts of delta-8 THC, as long as they come from hemp that doesn’t have more than 0.3 percent delta-9 THC based on dry weight.
However, delta-8 THC doesn’t naturally occur in large amounts in hemp plants. That means that delta-8 is largely made by converting cannabidiol (CBD) or delta-9 THC into delta-8 THC synthetically, which is illegal.
Additionally, some state laws strictly prohibit the sale of products containing both delta-8 and delta-9 THC. You can find out about your state’s laws by looking at the Norml.org map of cannabis-related laws.
However, keep in mind that because delta-8 is synthetically made and not well regulated, there are safety concerns. Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the
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Potential benefits | Potential risks & side effects | Impairing effects? | Legality | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Delta-8 | • pain relief • euphoria • relaxation | • red eyes • dry mouth • rapid heart rate • trouble with coordination • slowed reaction times • anxiety • memory loss • other unknown risks due to synthetic nature | yes | • not federally legal • state laws vary |
Delta-9 | • pain relief • euphoria • relaxation | • red eyes • dry mouth • rapid heart rate • trouble with coordination • slowed reaction times • anxiety • memory loss | yes | • not federally legal • state laws vary |
CBD | • pain relief • anxiety relief • insomnia relief | • changes in appetite • changes in weight • fatigue • diarrhea | no | • federally legal • state laws vary |
If you’re looking for a federally legal alternative to delta-8 that will not give you a “high,” you may want to consider trying CBD.
Below, we suggest a few full-spectrum options. Full-spectrum CBD has small amounts of THC but not enough to produce psychoactive effects when taken in small doses.
How we chose the best CBD products
When choosing CBD products, we keep the same general criteria in mind. Each product featured:
- is made by a company that provides proof of third-party testing by an ISO 17025-compliant lab
- is made by a company that discloses the source of their hemp
- contains no more than 0.3 percent THC, according to the certificate of analysis (COA)
- passes tests for pesticides, molds, and heavy metals, according to the COA
When making our selections, we also consider:
- company certification and manufacturing processes
- CBD potency
- whether products contain quality ingredients
- indicators of user trust and brand reputation, such as:
- customer reviews
- whether the company has been subject to a
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warning letter - whether the company makes any unsupported health claims
Pricing guide
- $ = under $50
- $$ = $50–$100
- $$$ = over $100
CBD products to consider
Lazarus Naturals Full Spectrum CBD Tincture, High Potency
- Price: $–$$$ (depending on potency)
- CBD type: full-spectrum
- CBD potency: 750 milligrams (mg) to 6,000 mg per 15-milliliter (mL) to 120-mL bottle
- COA: available online
This high potency CBD from Lazarus Naturals is one of the brand’s most popular selections. It’s all natural, gluten-free, vegan, and contains no added flavors, so you should expect an earthy taste when using this tincture.
Reviewers love the potent tincture and say it works better than other products they’ve tried. Customers also appreciate Lazarus Natural’s assistance program, which helps veterans, people from low income households, and people with disabilities by offering a 60 percent discount.
Use code “Healthline10” for 10% off your first order. One-time use only.
SHOP NOW AT LAZARUS NATURALS
Cornbread Hemp Distilled USDA Organic CBD Oil
- Price: $–$$$
- CBD type: full-spectrum
- CBD potency: 375, 750, or 1,500 mg per 30-mL bottle
- COA: available online
Cornbread Hemp’s CBD oil is USDA certified organic with hemp extract from the flower only. It contains no additives or preservatives.
Customers report that the oil is effective, helped produce a sense of calm, and improved their sleep. One person complains that the taste of the oil is too strong.
Use code “HEALTHLINE” for 25% off on first purchase.
SHOP NOW AT CORNBREAD HEMP
Vena Full Spectrum CBD Drops
- Price: $$–$$$
- CBD type: full-spectrum
- CBD potency: 1,500 mg or 3,000 mg per 30-mL bottle
- COA: available via product page
Vena recommends taking one full dropper a day of their Full-Spectrum CBD Drops. The mint-flavored oil is a good choice for people who don’t like the earthy taste of unflavored CBD. When you buy Vena’s CBD products, they also come with a 30-day, money-back guarantee.
Reviewers say they like the minty taste and describe it as refreshing but not overpowering. Only a handful of customers complain that the product didn’t produce any noticeable effects.
cbdMD Tropical Gummies
- Price: $$
- CBD type: broad-spectrum
- CBD potency: 750 mg per 30-mL bottle
- COA: available via product page
Some folks prefer CBD gummies compared to CBD oil. cbdMD fruity chews come in a mix of strawberry, raspberry, orange, and tropical. The gummies are vegan and gluten-free. They contain organic ingredients, including organic oil, juices, and sweeteners.
cbdMD recommends taking one or two gummies in the morning. The brand also offers a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Reviewers say the gummies taste great, and they like that the typical earthy CBD flavor is not prominent.
Shop now at cbdMD
CBD safety and side effects
According to
- diarrhea
- fatigue
- appetite and weight changes
Talk with your doctor before taking CBD or other cannabis-related products — especially if you’re taking any supplements or prescription medications. It’s possible for CBD to interact with certain medications, including those with a grapefruit warning.
While some brands recommend consuming CBD with meals for better absorption, one
Don’t take CBD if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
What is delta-8?
Delta-8 is a chemical found in the cannabis plant in very small amounts. Because it occurs naturally in such small amounts, the delta-8 THC you find in commercial products is usually synthetically made from CBD or delta-9 THC.
Learn more
Is delta-8 the same as THC?
Delta-8 and delta-9 THC have similar molecular structures, but they’re not exactly the same. Because delta-8 has a different structure, it may produce milder effects than delta-9 THC.
That said, more research is needed to better understand the effects of delta-8.
Learn more
Is delta-8 the same as CBD?
Delta-8 and CBD are both cannabinoids, but delta-8 has more in common with delta-9 THC than CBD.
Unlike CBD, delta-8 produces psychoactive effects.
Learn more
Is delta-8 safe?
There’s some concern surrounding the safety of delta-8 THC. That’s because it’s poorly regulated, and products containing delta-8 THC may contain additional compounds, including synthetic by-products that may cause adverse effects.
Learn more
Why is delta-8 legal?
It’s a common misconception that delta-8 is legal. In actuality, some states specifically prohibit it. It also isn’t necessarily federally legal, as it’s synthetically produced and not well regulated.
Learn more
Will delta-8 make you test positive for THC?
It’s possible. If you undergo drug testing, it may be best to avoid cannabis-derived products, including delta-8 products and CBD products.
Learn more
Will delta-8 get you high?
Because delta-8 is a form of THC, it has psychoactive effects and can get you high. While it’s reportedly less potent than delta-9 THC, it still has intoxicating effects.
Delta-8 THC may be an alternative to delta-9 THC for people who want a milder “high” than they get with regular THC. While delta-8 THC reportedly produces less potent effects than delta-9, more research is needed to better understand the potential side effects of this compound.
Additionally, because delta-8 THC is poorly regulated, there’s concern that the contents of products containing delta-8 THC may be difficult to assess.
Until better regulatory standards for the production of delta-8 THC exist, you may be more comfortable opting for delta-9 THC and CBD products.
Is CBD legal?The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3 percent THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3 percent THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.
Steph Coelho is a freelance writer with chronic migraine who has a particular interest in health and wellness. When she’s not click-clacking away on her keyboard, she’s probably nose-deep in a good book.
FAQs
Does Delta 8 Get u more high? ›
Some people have been asking whether or not Delta 8 gets you high. The truth is, it does in fact get you high, but the high is a milder high than that of Delta 9 THC. It also tends to make people sleepy rather than euphoric like most other indica strains of marijuana do.
Is Delta 8 harmful to the brain? ›In conclusion, Delta 8 THC is safe for you to use as long as you take the proper dosage. It's very potent with the ability to bind with CB1 receptors in your brain which can cause anxiety, bloodshot eyes, dry mouth, slowed reaction time, and more.
How does Delta 8 make u feel? ›Most will describe taking Delta 8 as a very pleasant and uplifting experience. It tends to bring a deep feeling of relief and peacefulness to its users. Some might even say it gives them a floating feeling, as if all of the weight has been taken off of them.
Does Delta 8 have health benefits? ›Fewer anxiety symptoms with its anxiolytic effects
As we mentioned earlier, delta 8 binds to the CB1 receptors throughout the body. In fact, some researchers have observed it connecting to the CB2 receptors, too. Its ability to bind is what helps the cannabinoid convince the body to better regulate pain and anxiety.
Some people feel psychoactive effects after taking only 5-10 mg of Delta-8, while others need to take 20 mg or more for substantial effects. Your THC tolerance, weight, metabolism, and other biological factors will affect this.
Can you take delta-8 everyday? ›Delta-8 is a Great Cannabinoid for Daily Use
Hence, if you want to get as much out of it as possible, daily dosing is ideal. To further elevate your experience, we highly recommend combing delta 8 THC products with your daily consumption of CBD products such as with the Pinnacle Hemp Maxx 1:1 CBD/Delta 8 tincture!
66% described adverse events after ingestion of delta-8 THC-containing food products (e.g., brownies, gummies). Adverse events included, but were not limited to: hallucinations, vomiting, tremor, anxiety, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
How long will delta-8 stay in your system for a drug test? ›Last Words. While delta-8 THC's effects last up to five hours in your body, the metabolites can stay in your system for up to 90 days. Luckily, the most common tests can detect metabolites for only a few days. However, if you are a chronic user, the test can yield positive even after 30 days.
What happens if you take too much delta-8? ›...
WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET TOO HIGH
- STAY HYDRATED. ...
- KEEP CALM AND TRY TO REST. ...
- EAT SOMETHING SWEET! ...
- SNIFF SOME BLACK PEPPER. ...
- DISTRACT YOURSELF. ...
- GO FOR A WALK (OR AT LEAST SOME FRESH AIR)
The high from delta 8 THC takes longer to kick in, but the effects of delta 8 also last longer. The onset and duration of delta 8 vary depending on your consumption method. In short, the high may need up to 2.5 hours to take hold, lasting up to 10 hours.
Is delta-8 an Indica or Sativa? ›
Delta-8 Indica Strains
Most often, indica strains are used to produce that much-desired body high. Delta-8 indica strains might not make you feel couch-locked, but they're likely to help you feel relaxed. They're also known to help stimulate the munchies.
Generally, delta 8 gummies take about 30 minutes to an hour to kick in. However, as we mentioned, several factors can affect this. If you want to be sure that your gummies are working, it's always best to start with a low dose and work your way up.
Does delta-8 help with weight loss? ›It offers health benefits for pain, inflammation, nausea and more. Amazingly, scientific research even shows that Delta-8 THC could help you lose weight while making you eat more! (A 50-day experiment found that mice given Delta-8 THC ate 22 percent more than usual but lost 20 percent of their original body weight.)
Does delta-8 work for anxiety? ›Like garden variety marijuana, delta-8 THC can be vaped or eaten. However, it's rarely smoked. Anecdotally, its fans swear by its benefits – that it helps with relaxation and pain relief without intense highs that can veer into anxiety or paranoia.
Is delta-8 the same as CBD? ›Is delta-8 the same as CBD? Delta-8 and CBD are both cannabinoids, but delta-8 has more in common with delta-9 THC than CBD. Unlike CBD, delta-8 produces psychoactive effects.
Does Delta 8 show up on drug tests? ›Therefore, participants using delta-8 will likely screen positive for cannabinoids—either from the delta-8 metabolites themselves or from other cannabinoids that are present in the product being used.
Can you drink alcohol and take Delta 8? ›THC and alcohol may potentiate each other's effect, so you'll definitely want to consume the two in smaller doses than usual. It's unsafe to consume Delta-8 when drinking heavily. You may even want to consider forgoing alcohol and choosing a Delta-8 beverage instead.
Whats better Delta 8 or 9? ›Delta 9 is considerably more potent than Delta 8. Some believe it to be about twice as strong overall. Side effects are also more considerable with Delta 9. These can include paranoid delusions, mental fog, impaired motor skills, and increased feelings of anxiety.
Is Delta-8 good for sleeping? ›Delta-8's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and calming properties may help you get a good night's sleep. Because it's strategically placed in the areas of the nervous system which control pain signals, studies reveal that the CB1 receptor plays a vital function in pain regulation.
Does Delta-8 give you energy? ›Delta-8 isn't a stimulant, but it may inadvertently support energy sustenance. Delta-8 boost your metabolism, so make sure you're eating plenty of nutritious foods if you want to feel energized. Almost any Delta-8 formula will provide these benefits, but you may want to avoid indica-dominant products.
Can I drive after Delta-8? ›
Although delta 8 is a new cannabinoid and research about it is still undergoing, it is clear that it is not safe to drive after consuming its products.
Does delta-8 hurt your lungs? ›Animal studies suggest that vaporized delta-8 might be less psychoactive than delta-9 THC. However, no human research has directly compared their effects. Delta-8 has also been linked with lung injury.
Why does delta-8 Make me feel weird? ›Dry mouth and red eyes are two common side effects of Delta 8. These are caused by the cannabinoids in Delta 8 binding to receptors in the body that control saliva production and blood flow to the eyes. Delta 8 can also cause dizziness, anxiety, paranoia, and headaches in some people.
How do you flush Delta 8 out of your system? ›The most effective way to clear Delta 8 from your system is to drink plenty of water. This will help you flush more Delta 8 THC via urination and will help dilute the remainder of the THC metabolites in your system. In addition to water, you can think about making a detox drink of your own!
How many hits does a Delta 8 Disposable have? ›Usually, delta 8 disposable vape pens can give you around 150-200 puffs.
Does Delta 8 Clear your system faster? ›Someone with a fast metabolism may clear Delta 8 cannabis metabolites from their system in a few days, while someone else who has a slower metabolism may take up to fourteen days for it to be completely out of their system.
How do you sober up from delta-8 high? ›- Watch your dose and potency. ...
- Give it time. ...
- Stay calm and use relaxation. ...
- Find a distraction. ...
- Drink water, but avoid coffee and beer. ...
- Avoid other substance use and folk remedies. ...
- Use a safety plan. ...
- Seek out professional assistance.
Vomiting, hallucinations, trouble standing and loss of consciousness are some of the adverse effects associated with consuming hemp-derived products containing delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced in a warning statement Sept. 14.
Does Delta-8 make you groggy in the morning? ›Short answer, yes, it is possible. Feeling groggy in the morning after taking Delta-8 is a common side effect for many users. This is because Delta-8 works by binding to receptors in the brain responsible for feelings of alertness and wakefulness.
Does Delta-8 give you a hangover? ›Before you run for the hills, the term “hangover” isn't accurate when applied to Delta-8. With an alcohol hangover, there is the possibility of becoming dehydrated, nauseous, severe headaches, etc. However, after a night of enjoying Delta-8, most enthusiasts would describe feeling slightly groggy the following morning.
What is the best strain of Delta 8? ›
- Exhale Wellness – Overall Best Delta 8 Flower On The Market, Editor's Pick.
- BudPop – Strongest Marijuana Strains and Delta 8 Bud.
- Hollyweed CBD – Most Popular Weed Flower From Marijuana Store.
15 mg: This is the recommended Delta 8 THC dosage for most people if they're using this cannabis option to manage their chronic pain or help them with a full night of restful sleep.
What are the 2 types of Delta 8? ›Delta 8 can come in either indica or sativa versions. The delta 8 molecule itself is neither indica or sativa, but based on which terpenes this cannabinoid is paired with, a delta 8 product might have distinctly indica-leaning or sativa-leaning effects.
Does delta 8 make you laugh? ›Key Takeaways. Delta-8-THC's effects are similar to traditional THC's, so it can boost your mood and make you laugh.
How long does a high last from delta-8? ›The high from delta 8 THC takes longer to kick in, but the effects of delta 8 also last longer. The onset and duration of delta 8 vary depending on your consumption method. In short, the high may need up to 2.5 hours to take hold, lasting up to 10 hours.
How long does it take for delta-8 to kick in? ›When taken orally, the cannabinoid will kick in around 30 to 90 minutes and will last around four to five hours. Delta-8 THC comes in other forms of ingestible products like capsules and beverages. When ingested, your body has to digest the consumable before you get high.
Are delta-8 edibles weaker? ›However, users describe it as “much weaker” than THC. And manufacturers of the few delta-8 THC edibles on the market tend to dose them at roughly twice as strong—in terms of mg per dose—than THC. This suggests—totally unscientifically—that delta-8 THC is half as strong as THC.
Is delta-8 or Delta 10 stronger? ›Delta 8 THC has been found to be more potent than Delta 10 THC because of the cannabinoid ratios. The potency of Delta 8 THC is based on the CBN content, which is another cannabinoid that provides psychoactive effects. Delta 8 THC lasts longer than most other cannabinoids due to the CBN content.
What are the negative side effects of Delta-8? ›Delta-8-THC gummies and candies have been eaten by children by mistake, leading to hospitalization. Side effects might include extreme tiredness, low blood pressure, and slowed heart rate.
Will one hit of Delta-8 show on a drug test? ›Does delta-8 show up on drug tests? It depends, but probably. Drug tests look for regular THC (delta-9). And because of its similarities to THC, delta-8 lasts in the body for a similar length of time and could be picked up by a drug test.
What happens if you take too much Delta-8? ›
As a cannabis product, Delta-8 can cause cotton-mouth and dry eyes. Grogginess or Drowsiness: This is another no-go for Delta-8. If you're feeling drowsy or groggy, you may very well have overdone it. Fatigue and brain fog don't often occur with hemp-derived THC.
How long does Delta 8 Stay in your pee? ›Delta 8 can remain detectable in the blood or urine for as long as 30 days or as short as two days. There are a lot of factors that can either shorten or prolong the amount of time it takes for delta 8 to be completely cleared from the body.
How long does Delta 8 stay in your system after one use? ›The half-life of Delta 8 THC has been reported as anywhere from 40 minutes to 7 hours. Delta 8 THC can linger in the body much longer than other metabolites and it is generally believed that Delta 8 remains detectable in the body for one to three days after consumption.
What is the fastest way to get Delta 8 out of your system? ›The most effective way to clear Delta 8 from your system is to drink plenty of water. This will help you flush more Delta 8 THC via urination and will help dilute the remainder of the THC metabolites in your system. In addition to water, you can think about making a detox drink of your own!
Is delta-8 an Indica or Sativa? ›Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as delta-8 THC, is a psychoactive substance found in the Cannabis sativa plant, of which marijuana and hemp are two varieties.
Can you drink alcohol and take delta-8? ›THC and alcohol may potentiate each other's effect, so you'll definitely want to consume the two in smaller doses than usual. It's unsafe to consume Delta-8 when drinking heavily. You may even want to consider forgoing alcohol and choosing a Delta-8 beverage instead.
Is delta-8 worse than vaping? ›If you want to use delta 8 as efficiently as possible, vaping is definitely the best option. Not only is delta 8 flower less potent, but it's also more prone to being wasted.
Does delta-8 help with inflammation? ›The delta-8 THC, derived from hemp, is effective at reducing swelling, inflammation, and excessive cell regeneration in the body. It has been used by professional athletes for many years because of its ability to calm and soothe muscle spasms and other symptoms that occur during intense physical exertion.
Can you fail a drug test from delta-10? ›So there's bad news, but there's also good news. The bad news is that yes, Delta-10 THC will make you fail a drug test. Much like Delta-8 THC, Delta-10 is a close cousin to Delta-9. It too has a similar chemical structure meaning that Delta-10 THC will most likely appear as THC on a standard drug test.
Is delta-8 federally legal? ›To summarize, delta 8 THC is federally legal as long as it is extracted naturally from hemp. Marijuana-derived delta 8 products can only be purchased in states that have legalized recreational marijuana use.