Why is Delta 8 THC Trending? Learn the Top Facts in this Ultimate Guide

By now, it’s likely you’ve heard of delta 8 THC. The elusive minor cannabinoid is making major waves across the nation as we learn more about its therapeutic benefits, and unique effects. So, what are the most pertinent delta 8 THC facts to know, how does delta 9 THC vs delta 8 THC differ, and who can benefit from delta 8 THC effects? We’ll answer those questions and more with our ultimate guide to delta 8 THC. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the latest hemp and cannabis compounds to trend and how they can be beneficial to all natural health and wellness routines.

What is Delta 8 THC? 

First, let’s start with the basics by answering the question – what exactly is delta 8 THC? Delta 8 THC is one of 144 known cannabinoids that are naturally found in hemp and cannabis plants. Just like the more popular delta 9 THC, CBD, CBG, THCa, etc. Scientifically, delta 8 THC only differs from delta 9 THC in chemical structure. Unlike CBD, both delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC have a ‘double bond’. This double bond is responsible for producing the cannabinoid’s notorious psychoactive effects. However, delta 8 THC’s double bond is found on the eight carbon in the molecular chain, while delta 9’s double bond is found on the ninth carbon.

This variance explains how delta 8 THC interacts, influences, binds and attaches to our internal receptors in a different way than delta 9 THC. The biggest difference being – delta 8 THC has far less potency or strength when it comes to psychoactive effects versus delta 9. Hence, why delta 8 THC is often referred to as ‘marijuana lite’ or ‘diet weed’. Since many consumers desire or even require the beneficial health effects of THC, but personally don’t want to be overwhelmed with the high – delta 8 THC is serving as a suitable alternative. Just another reason why the cannabinoid has risen to recent fame. In addition to the fact that the 2018 Farm Bill allows the lesser strength THC to be technically legal nationwide.

But how? It all comes down to the technicalities, and exact language of the infamous bill that made CBD legal. The 2018 Farm Bill made all ‘hemp-derived cannabinoids, extracts and derivatives with no exceptions’ federally legal. Since delta 8 THC is a byproduct of the CBD extraction process many are operating under the conclusion that delta 8 is federally legal too. Especially considering in reference to THC, the bill only states that CBD goods must contain less than .3% THC (by dry weight) to be sold as a hemp-derived cannabis product.

Since sales of delta 8 THC began to surge many states have taken the issue into their own hands. So far, the following states have passed legislation that bans or restrict sales of the cannabinoid –

• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• Colorado
• Delaware
• Kentucky
• Idaho
• Iowa
• Mississippi
• Montana
• New York
• Rhode Island
• Utah
• Vermont
• Washington
• Michigan (goes into effect October 2021)
• North Dakota
• Connecticut

While other states are drafting legislation themselves to pass restrictions on sales, too. The main concern amongst states and regulators is the fact that the Farm Bill doesn’t require regulation of the cannabinoid. Meaning, untrustworthy brands are now able to produce, and manufacture delta 8 THC products without being subject to guidelines and compliance measures. Which are measures typically set in place by state’s medical marijuana or adult-use programs. This makes finding a reputable cultivator and process of delta 8 THC products that much more important when you add them to your self-care routines.

Regardless, the debate of federal vs state legislation continues on as more consumers discover the benefits of delta 8 THC and seek avenues to purchase products. So, just what are those unique benefits? Let’s cover those next.

The Benefits of Delta 8 THC 

So far, the biggest delta 8 THC benefit is the fact that those who are sensitive to the effects of THC can consume the cannabinoid without feeling too ‘high’ or ‘buzzed’. While still receiving the beneficial and medical effects that THC is so well-known for. When consuming delta 8 THC consumers report experiencing a mild euphoria, relaxation, and uplifted moods. In fact, many are saying that delta 8 has the ability to produce a mental clarity that’s unmatched. And, unlike delta 9 THC doesn’t produce feelings of paranoia or anxiety.

But internally, studies are showing that delta 8 THC could be more effective for common symptoms than we know on the surface. Here’s a breakdown of the delta 8 cannabinoid effects we know through early research and anecdotal evidence –

Delta 8 THC may stimulate the appetite– We all know how delta 9 THC is well known for producing quite the case of the munchies. But, early studies are proving that delta 8 THC could be more of an effective appetite stimulant, than its counterpart. Many medical consumers turn to THC to stimulate their appetite due to side effects of common pharmaceuticals. Or, due to conditions that negatively affect their appetite like eating disorders, cancer, etc. For consumers who could benefit from stimulating their appetite more naturally, delta 8 is serving as a less psychoactive option to achieve the same effects.

• Delta 8 THC is neuroprotective in nature – Looking at the inner mechanisms of the THC compound, researchers have quickly found that the cannabinoid can be highly neuroprotective in nature. Which is increasing the investigation into whether or not THC can be of value as treatment for degenerative diseases. Like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, and others. Thus far, animal studies are showing that delta 8 THC effects could be responsible for these neuroprotective traits. With one study showing that delta 8 THC was successful in increasing the production of acetylcholine. And if you didn’t know, acetylcholine is an essential compound in the brain’s ability to regulate memory and cognition.
• Delta 8 THC may be an anti-anxiety agent – We’re all aware of the anti-anxiety vs anxiety debate when it comes to THC. Some experience anxiety reducing effects from consuming cannabis, while others note their anxiety often rises. Working with anecdotal evidence and from the majority of reports, it appears that delta 8 is less likely to induce anxiety due to its more mild psychoactive nature. While still producing its own potentially anxiolytic (AKA anti-anxiety) effects.
• Delta 8 THC has anti-nausea effects – One reason why THC is often used by cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy is due to its anti-nausea effects. Which research is now proving could be from the delta 8 THC cannabinoid. Delta 8 THC is shown to deliver antiemetic or anti-nausea effects. In fact, in one small study of a group of children, delta 8 THC was administered and ‘completely prevented’ vomiting amongst the participants.
• Delta 8 THC can be naturally pain relieving – Many consumers turn to THC (and CBD) as a way to naturally relieve pain, through the cannabinoids’ novel anti-inflammatory effects. To put the effects into perspective, keep in mind most over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, are NSAIDs or Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs. In addition to being anti-inflammatory delta 8 THC is also proving to have analgesic effects. Analgesic being the technical term for when an agent is ‘pain-relieving’ in effects. Science shows that delta 8 THC interacts primarily with CB1 receptors, within our endocannabinoid system. The system whose main function is to regulate ‘homeostasis’ or the overall feeling of feeling ‘well’. This unique interaction with CB1 receptors shows that delta 8 THC could be helpful for reducing and preventing pain, individually. With sme studies even noting that the cannabinoid could be classified as a ‘a novel, orally effective cannabinoid with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties’.
• Delta 8 THC may be beneficial for cancerous tumors – Outside of delivering delta 8 thc benefits for everyday stresses, aches and pains, the cannabinoid is also showing to be highly effective for reducing cancerous growths, and tumors specifically. This explains why some say that THC, and cannabis in general could be a potential cure for cancer.

As you can see, when you connect actual consumer use plus the research uncovered so far- delta 8 THC is proving to be the next best thing since CBD. Especially when it comes to providing all natural wellness effects with lessened psychoactive effects. Which brings up the next question for those new to the world of CBD, THC, and delta 8 THC – what are some of the best methods to consume delta 8 THC for its unique effects?

How to Consume Delta 8 THC 

As the cannabis and hemp industries evolve over time, so do the number of products available to reap the benefits of the all natural plant compounds. Today there is a wide range of delta 8 THC products that will successfully deliver cannabinoids effects. Including –

• Delta 8 THC gummies and edibles
• Delta 8 THC tinctures and oils
• Delta 8 THC vape carts
• Delta 8 THC flower and pre-rolls
• Delta 8 THC capsules

The delivery method of delta 8 THC will affect the length of effects, and the strength or potency just like it would with CBD or THC. Meaning, if you eat a delta 8 thc edible or gummies, or swallow a capsule or oil it’ll take about 45 minutes to 1 hour to initially feel effects, which will last as long as 4-6 hours. Considering that’s the time it takes the digestive system to metabolize the compounds.

If you puff, puff, pass a delta 8 THC pre-roll or vape, you’ll feel the effects almost instantly but they’ll only last 45 minutes – 1 hour. As for tinctures or oils, when you take delta 8 oil sublingually or holding the drops under your tongue – the compounds are directly absorbed by the sublingual artery. This means you’ll feel them faster than an edible (within 10 – 15 minutes) and they should last anywhere from 1 – 2 hours.

Of course, you should also be mindful of the fact that any cannabinoid effects will vary from person to person. Largely depending on an individual’s metabolism, weight, tolerance, and unique body composition and chemistry too. This is one reason why it’s hard to gauge your personal delta 8 THC, THC or CBD experience and compare it against anyone else’s.

All in all, if you’re new to consuming cannabinoids the best way to track your own personal effects and success is journaling your use. By tracking your dosage, product type, and effects achieved you can go back and review what works, and what didn’t.

Delta 8 THC vs CBD 

Last but not least, you might be wondering – how does delta 8 THC compare to CBD? Right off the bat, you should know that CBD’s molecular structure is incapable of producing psychoactive effects like THC. Although both cannabinoids do share a number of beneficial effects like reducing pain, anxiety, nausea.

When looking at the facts, you could say that delta 8 THC, CBD, and delta 9 THC are somewhat like Goldilocks and The Three Bears. One might be just right for you, too much for you, or too little for you. So, when choosing which is best for you bookmark the handy guide below to keep the key differences straight –

• CBD – Non-psychoactive in effects, in addition to a wide variety of therapeutic benefits.  
• Delta 8 THC – Mildly psychoactive in effects, in addition to a wide variety of therapeutic benefits. 
• Delta 9 THC – Highly psychoactive in effects, in addition to a wide variety of therapeutic benefits. 

The Final Word on Delta 8 THC 

Now that you have the full run-down on delta 8 THC you can see why the new cannabinoid to hit the block is trending. Not to mention, now that you better understand where it comes from, its effects and unique benefits, you can more effectively add the cannabinoid to your healing routines. Since delta 8 THC is a byproduct of the CBD extraction process per the 2018 Farm Bill, it’s widely and readily available for purchase across the US, and online.

Because Sly Fox CBD is always in-tune with the latest in the industry our delta 8 products will soon be hitting the shelves. Subscribe to our news alerts now, and be the first to know when our high-quality, third-party tested delta 8 THC goods are available for purchase.