Those who follow cannabis-related news probably know there is some controversy surrounding delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive compound that some contend is legal at the federal level due to certain loopholes.
If you are unfamiliar with cannabis products, the whole process might seem confusing. Where can I buy delta-8 THC legally? Are there different types of THC?
Here, we’ll discuss Delta 8 Wax potential benefits and risks, whether it gets you “high,” whether it’s legal, and what alternatives there are.
How does delta-8 work?
A psychoactive compound similar to delta-9 THC is delta-8 THC. Delta-9 THC is a compound in cannabis plants that produces an euphoric sensation. It is what people refer to when they talk about THC.
In spite of its similarity to delta-9 THC, delta-8 THC has a slightly different chemical structure, making it much less potent.
How can delta-8 benefit you?
The effects of delta-8 THC are similar to those of delta-9 THC, but they are much milder.
A lower potency may be beneficial for people who do not want a pronounced high.
The benefits of delta-8 THC still cannot be confirmed to outweigh the risks due to incomplete research. Scientists have a better understanding of delta-9 THC.
Delta-8 carries what potential risks?
Delta-8 is so similar to delta-9 THC that it produces some of the same side effects, such as:
- The eyes are red
- Lips are chapped
- A rapid heartbeat
- Problems with coordination
- Reaction time is slowed
- Angst
- Having trouble remembering
However, delta-8 may also come with additional risks because it is synthetically produced, which means you may not know what’s in it.
In addition, a recent article in Chemical and Engineering News indicates that products containing delta-8 may also contain delta-9 and delta-10 THC – a compound about which little is known.
Experts say these compounds probably won’t cause harm. In contrast, it is unclear whether other by-products, such as synthetic ones, are safe for consumption.
Are you going to get ‘high’ from delta-8?
In the same way that delta-9 THC causes a “high,” delta-8 THC also causes one. However, some people prefer the milder effect of delta-8 THC.
What is the legal status of delta-8?
Here’s where it gets complicated.
Hemp containing less than 0.3 percent delta-9 THC was legalized under the 2018 Farm Bill. Therefore, there is a federal loophole that permits products containing higher amounts of delta-8 THC, as long as the hemp is not more than 0.3 percent delta-9 THC based on dry weight.
However, hemp plants do not naturally contain large amounts of delta-8 THC. Delta-8 is mainly made by converting cannabidiol (CBD) or delta-9 THC into delta-8 THC synthetically, which is illegal.
Moreover, some state laws prohibit the sale of products containing both delta-8 and delta-9 THC. Check out Norml.org’s cannabis laws map to learn about your state’s laws.
Due to its synthetic nature and lack of regulation, delta-8 does not appear to be safe. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) note that there have been more calls to poison control centers regarding delta-8, along with reports of adverse events requiring medical attention and sometimes hospitalization.