Delta-8 is the hot topic of the moment. Cannabis plants have been going mainstream for quite some time now, with greater acceptance of marijuana products. In particular, cannabinoids like CBD have become all the rage in the supplement industry, leading to better medical research.
But now, delta-8 products are taking over the market. Some describe this cannabinoid as a midpoint between CBD and its intoxicating cousin, THC. After all, D8 is a form of THC.
Many people remain wary of delta-8 products, mainly because they are so new. Although there is plenty of delta-8 for sale online, sensible users want to know about the potential side effects before buying.
So, what does delta-8 do? And are there any side effects?
What Is Delta-8-THC?
Delta-8-THC is an analog of delta-9-THC, the famed compound in cannabis responsible for the high. The two compounds are very similar, with the significant difference being the placement of a carbon bond within the chemical structure.
This difference, no matter how small it may seem, significantly impacts the effects. Some of its effects are similar to D9, but it is usually described as a much milder experience.
Although delta-8 is naturally occurring in cannabis plants, it comes in extremely low quantities. What’s more, high-THC cannabis is federally illegal and not permitted in most states. Thus, to make delta-8 products, brands must use hemp.
After extracting CBD from hemp, manufacturers use it to make synthetic versions of delta-8. Most of the delta-8 you see online is, therefore, a synthetic form of the cannabinoid.
What Does Delta-8 Do?
There are lots of motivations to use delta 8. Primarily, people use it recreationally since it can trigger a high.
However, D8’s high is much milder than that of delta-9. Most reports suggest that it’s about half as potent. So, the same amount of delta-8 would lead to a high that’s half as intense as delta-9.
Right now, there isn’t a lot of research on delta-8-THC, so any medical claims made are simply marketing. It will likely be a few years before there’s enough funding and interest to learn about the potential therapeutic uses of delta-8.
For now, it’s best used recreationally. Users report feeling relaxed and euphoric, with a few anecdotal reports even claiming pain relief. A new survey found that relaxation was the primary reason for using delta-8, but 55% of those surveyed were using it for pain relief.
The participants also reported sensations typical of a high, including difficulties with short-term memory, difficulty concentrating, and an altered sense of time. That said, 83% said they did not experience paranoia, and 74% did not experience anxiety.
These results suggest delta-8 has fewer adverse effects than its cousin, delta-9. Does it have any side effects at all?
Delta-8 Side Effects
Like most cannabinoids, delta-8 carries the risk of some side effects. Most are pretty similar to delta-9-THC:
- Red eyes
- Cottonmouth (dry mouth)
- Elevated heart rate
- Reduced reaction times
- Memory loss
- Trouble with coordination
There is also a risk of anxiety, but this seems minimal in comparison to delta 9.
The main problem is that most delta-8 is synthetic. Without strict regulation, it’s difficult to tell precisely what’s in a product. According to one report, lots of products containing delta-8 may also contain delta-9 and delta-10.
Although the potential side effects of delta-8 seem minimal, there is always a risk when using unregulated products.
How to Avoid Side Effects
It’s crucial to exercise caution when using delta-8. First of all, it’s vital to find a trustworthy and reputable brand with high-quality products.
The best brands are transparent about their sourcing, explaining where the hemp comes from and how they create delta-8. More importantly, top brands publish lab reports. These certificates of analysis show the precise quantities of each cannabinoid in the product.
You should always avoid brands that don’t publish lab reports and those that pack their products with a long list of unnecessary ingredients.
Brands like Premium Jane are a great place to start browsing, with some fantastic examples of high-quality products.
Once you have got your hands on a high-quality item, it’s essential to use it responsibly. Start with a very low dose of delta-8 to find out how it affects you; every individual is different, after all. If you experience adverse side effects or find the experience overwhelming, discontinue use.
Final Thoughts
Delta-8-THC is an exciting new compound that’s likely to stick around, at least for the meantime. Users enjoy its mildly intoxicating effects with the euphoria and relaxation they bring.
There is some risk of side effects with delta-8, but this is true of most ingestible products and supplements.
As long as you use delta-8 responsibly, you are unlikely to encounter any issues.
