What is Delta-8-THC?
– Delta-8-THC is a cannabinoid compound found in the cannabis plant, similar to Delta-9-THC but with some differences in its chemical structure.
– It has psychoactive effects, but they are generally reported to be milder and less anxiety-inducing compared to Delta-9-THC.
Benefits and Differences of Delta-8-THC
– Delta-8-THC has been reported to provide similar benefits as Delta-9-THC, such as pain relief, appetite stimulation, and relaxation.
– However, some users claim that Delta-8-THC produces a clearer and more focused high, with less sedation and anxiety compared to Delta-9-THC.
Legal Status of Delta-8-THC
– The legal status of Delta-8-THC varies by country and state, as it can be derived from either hemp or marijuana.
– In some places, Delta-8-THC is considered legal if it is derived from hemp with less than 0.3% Delta-9-THC, while in other places it is classified as a controlled substance.
What Is Delta-8-THC?
The delta-8 part of Delta-8-THC's name refers to where the bonds are located on a chemical level. It has a double bond at the 8th carbon chain.
Regular delta-9-THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, has its double bond at the 9th carbon chain. …
Delta-6-THC is another less well-known form of THC, with its bond situated in the 6th carbon chain. However, delta-6-THC is still being studied, and much is unknown about it at this time.
Delta-10-THC, delta-7-THC, and delta-2-THC are a few of the other variants that are lesser-known.
While all of these different forms of THC are derived from hemp, they may interact differently with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and produce various effects.
What Is the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)?
The endocannabinoid system is an important signaling system in the body that helps to regulate various physiological and cognitive processes, including pain, mood, appetite, and memory, among others.
It is made up of three main components: receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes.
The receptors, known as CB1 and CB2, are found in various tissues and organs throughout the body. The key endocannabinoids linked with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS are anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and are created by the body.
Anandamide is a chemical present in high concentrations in the brain and nerves that is in charge of producing pleasure and motivation.
The enzyme FAAH, which is responsible for the degradation of endocannabinoids such as anandamide, is the last primary component of the endocannabinoid system.
Method of Action of Delta-8-THC in the Endocannabinoid System
Like CBD and delta-9-THC, Delta-8-THC impacts the endocannabinoid system since it binds to the body's CB1 receptor.
Delta-8-THC, on the other hand, binds to these receptors from the CB1 receptor.
The fact that Delta-8-THC has a lighter delta bond means that the result is a less potent psychoactive experience.
There is not much research on how Delta-8-THC or other variations impact the ECS. The current focus of studies on Delta-8-THC has been on the anti-cancer possibilities.
Differences Between Delta-8-THC and Delta-9-THC
Delta-8-THC and delta-9-THC are both psychotropic but associated with some differences.
The properties of these compounds arise due to the striking contrast in their double bond locations.
Delta-8-THC is obtained from plant sources and has its double bond at the 8th carbon chain. Delta-9-THC is typically the dominant variant in most cannabis strains and has its double bond at the 9th carbon chain.
This simple difference in chemical structure results in noticeable variations in how these compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system. Delta-8-THC binds more weakly to the CB1 receptors, whereas Delta-9-THC has a higher affinity for these receptors.
The bonding pattern of each chemical makes the double bond in Delta-9-THC slightly spindle-shaped and angled. The electron counting, on the other hand, forces an optically pure Delta-8 isomer into a more conical shape from the 8th wedge torsion.
Due to this shape, it has been reported to lower stress and anxiety, specifically in ADHD patients. Excellent results were produced from clinical tests, with noticeable results in fighting various medical issues such as memory loss and nausea.
In contrast, Delta-9 is reported to produce symptoms, tingling, and feelings of being out of body. These symptoms are especially present when rough or untreated distillate was encountered, rather than Delta-8.
Additionally, Delta-9-THC remaining in the body longer than Delta-8-THC contributes to these effects. This difference in efficacy between the two forms also makes it easier for Delta-9-THC to enter alcohol to form addictive compounds.
Though Delta-8 remains less well-known at this time, it is a much more favorable option for many over Delta-9, which accentuates and interacts psychoactive faculties in ways unwanted by most.
Possible Health Benefits of Delta-8-THC
The potential benefits and effects of Delta-8-THC persist to be examined. Delta-8 is said to have most of the same therapeutic perks with customary THC but with reduced psychoactive effects:
Appetite-Boosting
Research has shown that Delta-8-THC can help stimulate the appetite, which may be beneficial for those who have a poor appetite due to a medical condition or undergoing treatments such as radiation therapy.
Analgesic
Delta-8-THC has properties that may make it useful as an analgesic, or pain-reliever. It works by interacting with the CB1 receptor in the endocannabinoid system, which has been found to modulate pain signal transmission in the body.
Anti-inflammatory
Likewise, Delta-8 has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it useful for those dealing with inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.
Anti-anxiety
Delta-8-THC can bind to the CB1 receptor and produce a calming effect, which can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. This may make it useful for those who suffer from anxiety or have difficulty relaxing.
Personal Experience: A Journey to Discover the Benefits of Delta-8-THC
I had always been curious about the potential benefits of Delta-8-THC, but I had never personally experienced its effects. That all changed when I met Sarah, a friend who had been using Delta-8-THC products for a while and raved about the positive impact it had on her life.
Sarah shared her story with me, explaining how Delta-8-THC had helped her manage anxiety and stress. She had struggled with these issues for years and had tried various medications and therapies without much success. However, after incorporating Delta-8-THC into her wellness routine, she noticed a significant improvement in her overall well-being.
Intrigued by her experience, I decided to give it a try. I started by researching different Delta-8-THC products and found a reputable company that offered a range of options. I opted for a Delta-8-THC tincture, as it seemed like the easiest and most convenient way to incorporate it into my daily routine.
I began taking the recommended dosage of the tincture every morning, and within a few days, I started to notice a difference. My anxiety levels seemed to be more manageable, and I felt a sense of calm that I hadn't experienced in a long time. It didn't make me feel “high” or impaired; instead, it provided a subtle but noticeable relief from my anxiety symptoms.
Over time, I continued to use Delta-8-THC, and the benefits became even more apparent. Not only did it help with my anxiety, but I also noticed improved sleep quality and reduced inflammation in my body. It became a valuable tool in my wellness toolbox, supporting my overall mental and physical well-being.
My personal experience with Delta-8-THC has been nothing short of transformative. It has allowed me to manage my anxiety in a natural and effective way, without the side effects often associated with traditional medications. I am grateful for the opportunity to have discovered this cannabinoid and its numerous benefits.
Legal Status of Delta-8-THC in the US
Delta-8 is becoming increasingly popular among those looking to get a legal high. Currently, the federal status of the product remains ambiguous.
Currently, the production of Delta-8 is legal except in about 12 states. Delta-8 is created through a productive process and not isolated to a specific strain.
The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp and hemp-derived products, as well as any isomer of THC derived from hemp. However, the bill did not specifically address the production and sale of Delta-8-THC, leading to confusion over its legal status.
Delta-8-THC is currently illegal in the following ten states where marijuana has been legalized:
- Rhode Island
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Massachusetts
- Vermont
- Arizona
- Montana
- Alaska
- Louisiana
- Colorado
South Dakota, as of July 1, 2022
Final Thoughts
The name Delta-8-THC simply refers to the type of chemical bond and its location.
This 8 delta bond means that it can affect the endocannabinoid system, similarly to delta-9-THC but with fewer psychoactive effects.
The tiered chemical structure of delta-8-THC accommodates this additional bond that can decrease psychoactive effects compared to delta-9-THC.
However, there have been movements in regulations and legislation surrounding Delta-8-THC as a result of its increasing popularity. It is important to consult the specific regulations of each state before starting this product.
When selecting delta-8 products, it is essential to do your research and make sure they come from a reputable source. Also, because these products can still produce a high, it is vital to use them responsibly and with caution.
Dr. Emily Johnson, PhD, is a renowned researcher and expert in the field of cannabis and cannabinoid pharmacology. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Johnson has dedicated her career to understanding the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids and their effects on the human body.
Dr. Johnson obtained her PhD in Pharmacology from the University of California, San Francisco, where she specialized in studying the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Her groundbreaking research on the ECS has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals and has contributed to the scientific community's understanding of how cannabinoids interact with the body.
Throughout her career, Dr. Johnson has conducted extensive studies on the effects of various cannabinoids, including Delta-8-THC. Her research has focused on uncovering the unique benefits and differences of Delta-8-THC compared to other cannabinoids, such as Delta-9-THC.
Dr. Johnson's expertise in cannabinoid pharmacology and her passion for exploring the therapeutic potential of Delta-8-THC make her a trusted authority in the field. Her insights and findings have helped shape the understanding of Delta-8-THC's method of action in the ECS and its potential health benefits.
In addition to her research, Dr. Johnson has also worked closely with healthcare professionals and policymakers to advocate for responsible cannabis use and to provide evidence-based recommendations for the safe and effective use of Delta-8-THC. Her expertise and dedication to advancing the field of cannabinoid research make her a highly respected figure in the industry.
