Delta 8 is quickly becoming the most talked-about cannabinoid on the block. But, considering how new it is to even the most veteran delta 9 THC consumers – there are still lingering questions on the latest cannabinoid to join the crew. That’s why here, we’re setting the record straight on delta 8 THC vs delta 9 THC while addressing all the top questions on delta 8 THC effects. So, to become a more informed consumer, keep reading for all the delta 8 THC facts you need to know.Â
Delta 8 vs Delta 9 101Â
For the most part, it’s likely you’re probably pretty familiar with the effects of ‘weed’ or its primary cannabinoid, delta 9 THC. It’s one of the most well-known cannabinoids besides CBD and is notorious for its psychoactive effects or high. But there’s a key difference between the delta 9 THC molecular chain and the delta 8 THC molecular chain. Each cannabinoid has a double bond, but delta 9’s is on the 9th carbon while delta 8’s is on the 8th carbon.Â
This variance means delta 9 THC vs delta 8 THC interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) differently. Due to the way the double bond uniquely interacts, attaches to, and influences our body’s internal receptors. In general, both delta 9 THC and delta 8 THC have a strong affinity for one of the primary receptors in the ECS known as CB1. However, early studies show that delta 8 THC may be more influential on the CB2 primary receptor in comparison to delta 9.Â
As a quick refresher – the endocannabinoid system is a physiological system that’s responsible for maintaining ‘homestasis’. Or, the overall feeling of feeling well. The system is a network of messengers and receptors – like CB1 and CB2 that communicate with all other systems to ensure the body is working (and feeling) optimally. To get a better idea of CB1 and CB2’s primary functions within the ECS, here’s a quick breakdown of how they’re influential –Â
- CB1: CB1 receptors help to regulate mood, motor functions, perception of pain, and memory.Â
- CB2: CB2 receptors help regulate the response of the immune system to pathogens, nerves, and inflammation while also influencing the digestive system. Â
But, what do these internal mechanisms mean delta 9 THC vs delta 8 THC effects? All in all, delta 8 THC is far less psychoactive than delta 9. Delta 9 tends to deliver more of a brain and body buzz, which often comes with a mind fog or haze. But, delta 8 THC reviews by consumers report delta 8 delivers a more clear-headed euphoria, that tends to induce less anxiety, panic, or paranoia than delta 9 THC often does for so many consumers.Â
To learn more about the full scope of delta 8 effects like appetite stimulation, pain relief, and anxiety reduction – check out our full guide to delta 8 THC and the most current research, here. Â
Of course, delta 8 THC can vary in effects for consumers just like how delta 9 can make some people feel anxious, and not others. So, next let’s to get ourselves more acclimated with actual use let’s cover some general tips and tricks on how to start consuming the latest and greatest cannabinoid to hit the shelves.Â
Tips & Tricks for Consuming Delta 8 THCÂ
The first most important thing to learn about consuming delta 8 THC, is the varying activation times and duration times of delta 8 cannabinoid effects. Just like delta 9 – certain products, like edibles will take longer and last longer than vaping, or consuming oils and tinctures. So, here’s a simple guide to onset effect times and the length of effects you can expect with delta 8 THC gummies and more –Â
- Delta 8 THC edibles – When swallowing delta 8 THC edibles like gummies, the cannabinoids are metabolized by the digestive system. That means you won’t feel the effects kick in until 45 minutes – 1 hour after consumption, and will last anywhere from 4-6 hours, depending on your exact dosage.Â
- Delta 8 THC oils or tinctures – When swallowing delta 8 THC oil or tinctures, the onset effect times and duration will be the same as edibles. However, when sublingually consuming oils or tinctures by holding them under your tongue for up to 1 minute, the cannabinoids are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the sublingual artery. This means you can expect to feel effects in 5-15 minutes and will last around 2-3 hours. Â
- Delta 8 THC vapes – When inhaling a delta 8 THC cart, the effects act like that of smoking a joint or delta 9 THC vapes. You can expect to feel effects almost immediately, which tend to last anywhere from 45 minutes – 1 hour.Â
Because everybody’s unique body chemistry is different, it’s best to experiment with dosage to find out which is right for you. Some delta 8 THC consumers will find that high dosages help them relax, and unwind at nighttime, while others report low dosages stimulating motivation and energy for the day. The delta 8 cannabinoid effects you feel will ultimately depend on your personal tolerance, weight, metabolism, and other factors so it’s best to start low and slow, to reach your desired or optimal effects.Â
The Top FAQ’s on Delta 8 THCÂ
To finish up our conversation on delta 8 THC, let’s cover some of the most frequently asked questions by new consumers.Â
Is it legal?Â
Yes, but not in every state. Technically, the 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized hemp and its cannabinoid byproducts that have less than .3% THC (including delta 8 THC). However, many states have taken action to make delta 8 THC illegal, or classify it under their current adult-use or medical marijuana programs, just like delta 9. These states include –Â
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas Â
- Colorado
- Delaware
- KentuckyÂ
- IdahoÂ
- Iowa
- MississippiÂ
- Montana
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Utah
- Vermont
- Washington
- MichiganÂ
- North Dakota
- Connecticut
Will delta 8 THC make me sleepy?Â
As we mentioned, delta 8 THC effects will vary from person to person, and dose to dose. While higher dosages can have a sedating or relaxing effect, it’s best to experiment with doses to see which is optimal for daytime vs nighttime use.Â
Is delta 8 THC the same as CBD?Â
No! CBD is completely non-psychoactive in effects, while delta 8 THC is psychoactive in effects.Â
Will I get the munchies?Â
Most likely! Some research shows that appetite stimulation is a delta 8 THC effect, even more so than with delta 9 THC.Â
Are delta 8 gummies, vegan?Â
While most gummies are off-limits to vegans due to the use of gelatin, many delta 8 THC gummies are vegan-friendly. Including our selection of Delta 8 THC gummies at SlyFox.Â
Can I build a tolerance to delta 8?Â
Yes, like delta 9 THC your body will build a tolerance to delta 8 THC over time. To disrupt this tolerance building, you can take a tolerance break of a day-1 week, or reduce your dosage to re-balance.Â
Choosing a Trusted Delta 8 THC BrandÂ
Last, but not least – how do you choose a reputable or trusted delta 8 THC brand? The best thing you can do as an informed delta 8 THC consumer is seeking out lab reports from the company you choose to purchase from. In fact, the best sign of a premium delta 8 THC manufacturer or supplier is having lab reports available right on the product page you’re shopping.Â
At Sly Fox – we not only strive to educate our customers with high-quality content, informative research, and thought-provoking discussion but strive to be the industry leader in bringing high-quality hemp cannabinoid goods to market. That including, our top-shelf delta 8 THC gummies, and oils available for shipping to all delta 8 THC legal states that come equipped with downloadable lab reports directly from our website.
So, sneak in some all-natural healing to your self-care and wellness routines with Sly Fox CBD, or delta-8 THC goods. Still, have questions? We’re here with answers! Stay tuned for more news and education on delta 8 THC and CBD, or talk to an expert from our team today.