You likely are familiar with delta-9 THC, the cannabinoid found in cannabis that causes users to become high. You may have heard of delta-8 THC but are unsure of how it differs from its more famous counterpart, delta-9 THC.
In this short article, we’ll discuss the main differences between delta-8 and delta-9 THC. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about delta-8 products, such as delta-8 gummies, in terms of their effects and legal status. We’ll also provide some useful information that can help you feel more confident about buying delta-8 gummies.
What is Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC is a psychoactive phytocannabinoid found in both hemp and marijuana. However, as delta-8 THC occurs in relatively low levels in cannabis, most manufacturers extract concentrated amounts of the compound from hemp-derived CBD.
Delta-8 Effects
While delta-8 can induce feelings of euphoria, its effects are generally considered much milder than those produced by delta-9 THC. Most describe delta-8’s high as being uplifting, extremely pleasant, and relaxing.
Generally, people consume delta-8 products such as delta-8 gummies for their mood-enhancing effects. However, there is some anecdotal evidence that delta-8 provides mild relief from moderate pain levels.
Is Delta-8 THC Legal?
Several states have banned delta-8 products, and there is some confusion regarding delta-8 THC’s legal status. Most look to the 2018 US Farm Bill for clarity around the legality of delta-8 THC. Under the Farm Bill, industrial hemp and hemp-derived products must contain no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight.
Delta-8 products, like delta-8 gummies derived from hemp, containing no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC, are available in many states. However, we strongly recommend finding out the legal status of delta-8 THC in your state before purchasing any delta-8 products, such as delta-8 gummies.
What are Delta-8 Gummies?
Delta-8 gummies are candy-like edibles infused with delta-8 THC derived from the hemp plant. The leading brands typically source their hemp from organic farms in the United States. The benefit of using organically-grown hemp is that it is not sprayed with pesticides and herbicides, so there is no chance of residual amounts of these harmful chemicals ending up in the end product.
How many Delta-8 gummies should I Take?
While delta-8 gummies may taste delicious, and you may be tempted to consume more, remember they are not candy and that they contain the psychoactive substance delta-8 THC.
Generally, manufacturers recommend a single serving size, which is typically one delta-8 gummy.
If you are new to delta-8 gummies, then it is very important not to exceed the recommended dose.
What Do I Need to Know About Delta-8 Gummies?
It is essential to be aware that the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate delta-8 products. Therefore, as delta-8 products are sold in an unregulated market, we strongly recommend sourcing delta-8 gummies from reputable brands that provide evidence of third-party lab testing.
The good news is that many leading CBD brands now offer delta-8 gummies as part of their product portfolio. Sticking with an established brand that has gained a reputation for offering premium products over many years can give you more confidence when you buy delta-8 gummies.
While not compulsory in the industry, the major players all have their products tested by independent labs to verify their safety and purity.
Before you buy delta-8 gummies, check the brand’s website for the Certificate of Analysis (COA), i.e., the lab report for that particular batch. The COA shows precisely how much delta-8 THC is in the delta-8 gummies and typically shows that the lab tested the product for the presence of chemicals such as pesticides and other impurities and heavy metals like arsenic and lead.
Not All Delta-8 Gummies are Created Equal
Unfortunately, as the delta-8 THC market is unregulated, some of these products are potentially unsafe. That’s why it is vitally important to only buy delta-8 gummies from a reputable brand that has its products tested by a third-party laboratory.
Remember that delta-8 gummies are edibles, so you want to be 100% sure that they are safe before consuming them. Don’t be fooled by a lower price – safety, purity, quality, and transparency are far more important considerations when you buy delta-8 gummies.
