What Is Delta-8 and Why Is It So Popular?

https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-photo-of-assorted-colored-gummy-bears-7667728/Delta-8 is a milder form of cannabinoid compared to others. Due to its lower concentration, it enjoys a more relaxed legal status as well, which is one of the main reasons why it is so popular.However, what is Delta-8 really? And is it legal? Moreover, some people claim major health benefits. Are they real? If you have been asking these questions, then you are in the right place. Here is all you need to know about Delta-8 THC.

What Actually is Delta-8?

Delta-8 is a cannabinoid that is found in small amounts in cannabis plants. It is one of many naturally occurring cannabinoids. What makes Delta-8 a bit unique is its chemical structure.It is slightly different compared to others, specifically THCA. THCA is nonpsychoactive when it is not heated. When THCA is heated, however, it converts to Delta-9, which is still illegal in many places.Delta-8, on the other hand, is similar to Delta-9. However, the psychoactive effects of Delta-8 are milder. Which is why it is becoming increasingly popular in many states and remains legal in many states too!You can learn more about the differences between THCA vs Delta 8 here. In short, these two differ in the THC form they take. THCA is acidic and a precursor to Delta-9. Whereas, Delta-8 is non-acidic, produces a milder high and is also legal in many states.

Why is Delta-8 So Popular?

Delta-8 has gained a lot of popularity over the last couple of years. While the laws surrounding both THCA and Delta-8 are complex, Delta-8 still remains mostly legal in many states, which is one of the reasons it is so popular.

Delta-8 Legality

THCA is not regulated as a controlled substance since it is non-psychoactive. However, THCA converts into Delta-9 when heated, which is psychoactive. And Delta-9 is classified as a controlled substance.It is still illegal in many states due to its higher concentration of cannabis. Delta-8 is comparatively less concentrated and potent. This results in a much milder high. Which gives it a legal loophole. The somewhat relaxed legal status of Delta-8 is one of the reasons it is so popular.However, you still need to be careful and look into your local laws. The laws regarding cannabis use are very complex. Moreover, they can be interpreted in different ways. Always follow your local state laws.

Benefits of Delta-8

Additionally, Delta-8 also has some quite interesting benefits. Many users claim that Delta-8 has therapeutic effects. It can reduce anxiety, act as a pain relief, and even help with poor appetite.Although research is in its early stages, the anecdotal claims look promising. Users who do not want the more intense high of Delta-9 often opt for Delta-8 because of its milder effects.

Delta-8 Products Have Tons of Variety

Delta-8 comes in a lot of forms. You can buy gummies, edibles, and tinctures. There are also Delta-8 vape cartridges for those who like to smoke.The wide variety of options means there is something for everyone. You can find a suitable way of using Delta-8 depending on the benefit (and effect) you are after.

3 Interesting Delta-8 Facts

Delta-8 has some quite interesting properties. For example, did you know it is known as a “diet weed” in some places? Here are three interesting facts you should know.

• 1. Diet Weed

A lot of people call Delta-8 a “diet weed” because of its milder effects on the body. For those who do not want to get too high or are using cannabis for the first time, Delta-8 is a good starting point.Especially since there are a lot of people who have experienced many benefits.

• 2. Most Delta 8 Products Are Made In a Lab

Although Delta-8 is naturally occurring, most products found in the market are made in a lab. This is why it is important to buy from reputed sources to ensure quality and, more importantly, safety.

• 3. Your Body Naturally Produces THC

Our bodies naturally produce THC. However, it is nowhere close to the Delta-8 compound. The body produces its own form of cannabinoid called endocannabinoids.The effects people feel after consuming Delta-8 are the direct cause of the compound interacting with our CB1 receptors. Essentially, this interaction is what gives the mild psychoactive effects.

How to Use Delta-8

The fantastic thing about Delta-8 cannabinoids is the sheer number of options available. Which means you are sure to find a form that is suitable for you.Having said that, there are a couple of main methods of using Delta-8 THC:

• Edibles

• Smoking

• Liquid products

Edibles

Edible forms of Delta-8, like gummies, are one of the most popular. You can buy different flavors of Delta-8 gummies, too. As a result, if you are a beginner, edible gummies can be a great option. However, edibles take a bit longer to take effect.

Vaping and Smoking

If you are an experienced user, vaping will give you the fastest results. The compound enters your body through the lung tissues, which causes it to react immediately.Another popular way of using Delta-8 is smoking it. You can get Delta-8 flowers, which can be smoked. But these are not actual Delta-8 THC. Rather, they are hemp that is sprayed with a Delta-8 distillate.

Liquid Forms (Tinctures)

Tinctures are the liquid form of the compound. You can include slight amounts of it to your drink to get the desired psychoactive effects. You do not use tinctures by themselves, though.They are dissolved in carrier oil. Hemp seed oil or MCT are two of the most common options. These three are some of the most popular ways to use Delta-8. However, there are other methods like taking capsules, or using lotions and patches.

Wrapping Up

Thanks to its mild effect and generally better legal status, Delta-8 is very popular. However, when using Delta-8, you need to make sure it is legal in your own state.Additionally, not all medical claims for Delta-8 are proven. Some of them are inconclusive at best. Some users report benefits like alleviating nausea, increased appetite and more.