What is Delta 8 THC?
The New Cannabinoid On the Block
By now, we’re sure you know about THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), the most common cannabinoid found in cannabis. However, you are likely familiar with Delta 9 THC, the cannabinoid with psychoactive properties that can produce a high. Did you know that Delta 9 has a sibling? That’s right, Delta 8 THC, a recently rediscovered cannabinoid, is gaining popularity at a rapid rate in the cannabis industry and we can’t wait to tell you about it! So, what exactly is it?
What Is It?
Delta 8 THC was identified by a team of researchers led by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam in the early 1970’s. Though, it never received much notoriety because the compound occurs at significantly lower levels in cannabis than Delta 9. [1] Delta 8 is an isomer of Delta 9, meaning they have a very similar molecular structure, but the placement of one atomic bond is what separates them. “The researchers discovered that Delta 8 THC had almost exactly the same atomic structure as Delta 9 THC: The only difference was the placement of one atomic bond in the compound. Of course, this one small difference can mean the compound has different impacts on a user altogether”.
Therapeutic Properties
Delta 8 shares some of the same therapeutic properties as Delta 9 and CBD. Most notably, it is touted for its strong anti emetic properties (anti nausea) and anxiolytic properties (anti anxiety). Also, recent studies show that Delta 8 possesses neuroprotective properties as well. This cannabinoid has the potential to help with sleep, slow abnormal cell growth, and assist with pain. Consumers of Delta 8 can experience all of these amazing benefits without the feeling of paranoia or anxiety that sometimes comes along with consuming Delta 9.
The Legality of Delta 8 THC and Current Products
Delta 8 is considered to be a derivative of hemp and therefore can be legally offered in states where hemp is legal. Due to the fact that the percentage is naturally low in the hemp plant, the product must undergo a post-extraction process called fractional distillation. This process converts the abundance of CBD found in hemp, into Delta 8.
Currently, the majority of Delta 8 products can be found in our popular Delta 8 Vegan Chews.If a possible drug screening is in your future, we advise you to choose a broad spectrum or isolate product.