How Long Does Delta 8 Edible Last?

The term Delta 8 edible is an umbrella term that refers to edibles that have been infused with the Delta 8 cannabinoid. Although Delta 8 gummies rank as the most popular form of these edibles, there are other Delta 8 edible products currently available in the market, including biscuits and beverages.

If you are curious about Delta 8 THC products, you are probably wondering how long they last. In this blog post, you will learn a few important things about Delta 8 edibles, allowing you to make informed choices.

What Is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC is just one of the cannabinoids found in marijuana and hemp plants. Compared to Delta 9 THC, which is the primary psychoactive compound in weed, Delta 8 THC produces milder psychoactive effects. Furthermore, the amount of Delta 8 naturally found in hemp and cannabis plants is considerably lower compared to Delta 9 THC.

Due to the small amount of Delta 8 THC naturally found in hemp plants, manufacturers turn to hemp-derived CBD to create more Delta 8.

Delta 8 THC vs. Delta 9 THC

If break down Delta 9 THC and Delta 8 THC, you will see that both cannabinoids are made up of oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. However, these elements are arranged differently in each cannabinoid.

While the two have differences, they also share a few key similarities.

Delta 8 vs. Delta 9: similarities

Delta 9 and Delta 8 THC activate the same cannabinoid receptors in the body, especially those found in the central nervous system.

One of these receptors is called the CB1 receptor. Activating this type of receptor can lead to a variety of benefits, including appetite stimulation, nerve health, and sensory stimulation prevention.

The activation of CB2 receptors, on the other hand, is beneficial for the management of inflammation and chronic pain as well as the regulation of the immune system.

But despite these beneficial effects, overstimulating both types of cannabinoid receptors can lead to a variety of adverse effects that have been associated with cannabis use. These include dry mouth, red eyes, elevated heart rate, loss of coordination, panic, and anxiety.

Delta 8 vs. Delta 9: differences

Between the two cannabinoids, Delta 9 THC has been the subject of numerous studies while Delta 8 THC only has a limited number of studies.

In terms of potency, Delta 9 is considered the stronger cannabinoid. According to estimates made by experts, the potency of Delta 8 THC is roughly about 25% to over 30% of Delta 9's potency.

Although there are various Delta 9 products that are now available in the market, smoking and vaping remain the most popular methods of ingestion. Delta 8 THC, on the other hand, cannot be vaped or smoked in bud form. Instead, Delta 8 products are derived from CBD.

What Are Delta 8 THC Edibles?

Delta 8 THC edibles refer to edible products that have been infused with Delta 8. These include gummies, chocolates, drinks, and other snacks.

There are two ways to create Delta 8 THC edibles. First, Delta 8 is sprayed on the edible as a final touch. In other edibles, the Delta 8 THC is added to the mix prior to cooking.

Take note that Delta 8 THC edibles are made differently using various ingredients and levels of potency.

For example, edibles like brownies and cookies contain more fats compared to other Delta 8 THC edibles. Fat helps hasten the absorption of the cannabinoid. Other products like Delta 8 gummies use more sugar along with citric acid to lengthen shelf life.

Delta 8 THC gummies and their cannabinoid content are absorbed faster because they bypass the digestive system and liver. Instead, when you eat gummies, Delta 8 THC is gradually absorbed through the capillaries located in your mouth. However, the effects are less intense when compared to other edibles.

What Are the Effects of Delta 8 THC?

The effects of Delta 8 THC can vary from one person to another. While some may say that the effects are mellower compared to Delta 9 THC, others may say the contrary. This is particularly true for newbies who might try the cannabinoid at a higher dose.

Broadly speaking, the effects of Delta 8 are mildly euphoric, similar to some hybrid cannabis strains that have been bred to imbue focus, creativity, and productivity in their users.

In terms of potency, Delta 8 is milder than Delta 9. But when it comes to euphoria, Delta 8 THC is better than CBD.

Many users prefer Delta 8 THC extracted from cannabis Sativa strains because they provide stimulating effects to both the mind and body. Additionally, most cannabis Sativa strains are typically used during the daytime.

Delta 8 THC derived from cannabis Indica strains are best used before bedtime because of their sedative and relaxing properties.

How Long Do Delta 8 THC Effects Last?

That depends on various factors. In general, the larger the dose you took, the longer the effects will last. That applies to most Delta 8 products, including Delta 8 THC edibles.

With edibles, the length of time the effects linger will depend on several factors, including what type of edible you took.

Traditional edibles take a longer time to kick in because they are slowly metabolized by the body. The Delta 8 cannabinoid slowly trickles from the liver and courses through your body. One advantage of traditional edibles is that their effects last longer, averaging between six to eight hours. However, the effects you feel may be considerably milder.

Sublingual Delta 8 THC edibles kick in faster, with their effects usually lasting up to four hours. However, the duration of the effects is shorter. The Delta 8 in these edibles is almost immediately absorbed through the capillaries in the mouth.

If you want the effects of a sublingual edible to last longer, you should consider taking it after eating. This will allow the digestive system to take a longer time to absorb the cannabinoid.

The length of time it takes for Delta 8 THC to kick in is also influenced by the ingestion method.

For edibles like gummies, brownies, and even oils and concentrates, the average time it takes for you to feel the effects is around 30 to 80 minutes. Usually, the effects can last for up to eight hours.

Delta 8 THC products that are ingested sublingually, like tinctures, take about 10 to 30 minutes for the effects to kick in. The effects last as long as you keep the Delta 8 THC product in your mouth. The effects kick in considerably faster because the capillaries in the mouth can quickly absorb the cannabinoid without passing through the digestive system.

By smoking or vaping Delta 8, you can feel the effects in just 10 to 15 minutes. You can feel the effects of the cannabinoid for up to five hours.

If you are applying Delta 8 THC to your skin in the form of oils, tinctures, creams, or salves, you might not be able to feel the effects associated with the other ingestion methods. This is because Delta 8 THC does not enter your bloodstream.

How Long Does Delta 8 Stay in the Body?

While there is still no scientific information on this matter, some experts believe that Delta 8 is similar to Delta 9 in terms of the time it stays in your system.

On average, Delta 9 and its metabolites stay in the saliva for up to 48 hours after ingestion. The cannabinoid can stay in the human body for about 36 hours. However, some THC metabolites can stay for as much as over a month, especially in some people.

Can Drug Tests Detect Delta 8?

Now, this begs the question of whether Delta 8 shows up on drug tests.

Routine drug tests can detect Delta 8, especially if the test is administered before your body has flushed enough metabolites out of your system.

Most drug tests screen for THC byproducts that are left and stored in the body. These metabolites stay in your system long after you have flushed out the cannabinoid that you used.

If you are applying for a new job or if you are aware that there is an upcoming drug test in your workplace, the prudent thing to do is to abstain from using Delta 8 products.

What Is the Shelf Life of Delta 8 Products?

Delta 9 degrades fast when exposed to heart and light. This is why you should store your Delta 9 products in a cool, dry place to lengthen their shelf life. After oxidation, Delta 9 is converted to CBN.

Delta 8, on the other hand, is not prone to oxidation. This is because the cannabinoid is more stable than Delta 9.

According to experts, Delta 8 also shares a few similarities with CBN. In a way, Delta 8 can be considered a degraded cannabinoid. Here, degradation does not mean that you cannot use Delta 8 products. Instead, these products are simply stable, giving them a long shelf life.

In fact, some scientists are looking into the possibility of using Delta 8 for pharmaceutical applications because of the aforementioned qualities.

Compared to other hemp cannabis products, Delta 8 products can be stored for longer periods. However, the actual shelf life of a particular product will depend on various factors, including the other ingredients used.

But generally, Delta 8 products, including edibles, can be kept and used anywhere between six months and one year. This is great news if you are planning to buy Delta 8 products in bulk.

Do Delta 8 Products Expire?

Like most products, Delta 8 products do expire. However, the expiration timelines will vary across different products.

For example, Delta 8 tinctures have the longest shelf life, with most lasting for around two years. Delta 8 vape carts also have a long shelf life because they do not degrade easily. Usually, you can store and use D8 vape carts for up to a year after their manufacture.

The shelf life of edibles varies. For example, Delta 8 brownies and cookies are prone to oxidation. This makes long-term storage challenging. On the other hand, gummies and hard candies do not oxidate as fast. Gummies have a shelf life ranging between one year and a year and a half.

Signs That Your Delta 8 Product Has Expired

Perhaps you bought a big batch of Delta 8 products and forgot about them. Or maybe you bought some and the use-by and expiration dates are unclear. Whatever the reason may be, you want to have some idea on how to know if your Delta 8 product is already expired.

Here are a few warning signs to watch out for.

Discoloration

Oxidation can cause some Delta 8 products to change color. For example, vape oils and flowers may take on a paler hue.

Weird smells

Another telltale sign that your D8 product has expired is that it emits a different smell. Usually, Delta 8 products have that familiar dank marijuana scent because of their terpene content.

Delta 8 edibles, on the other hand, may have a spoilt or rancid aroma when they expire.

You can't get the desired effects

If you have used the Delta 8 product before and are familiar with its effects, you will know when the product is already expired because you can't get the same effects with the same dosage. This is particularly true if you have ruled out tolerance build-up.

If you are wondering if expired Delta 8 can make you sick, the answer depends on the type of product you have.

Delta 8 itself won't make you sick, even if it expires. However, some products, especially edibles, have ingredients that can go bad before the cannabinoid expires.

As a rule of thumb, consume your Delta 8 product before it expires to prevent loss of potency and spoilage.

How to Store Delta 8 Products

While Delta 8 doesn't oxidize as fast as Delta 9, it is still a good idea to learn how to properly D8 products. Remember, most Delta 8 products use other ingredients aside from the cannabinoid.

As a rule of thumb, Delta 8 products need to be stored in an area away from direct sunlight. Products that are not individually wrapped should be put inside airtight containers.

Storing Delta 8 edibles

Delta 8 edibles, especially baked goods, should be placed inside airtight containers. Once inside a container, you can put your D8 edibles inside the freezer. Individually-packed edibles like candies do not need to be put in an airtight container.

Delta 8 products like gummies and hard candies are also best kept inside the fridge as these can melt when the room temperature rises.

One important thing to remember when storing Delta 8 edibles is to keep them away from direct sunlight and temperature extremes.

Storing tinctures

Although Delta 8 tinctures have a considerably longer shelf life, you should also learn how to store them properly, especially when not in use.

Tinctures are usually packaged using dark glass bottles because they can help keep light at bay. However, it is still a good idea to keep your Delta 8 tincture away from direct sunlight. Place your tincture in a cool, dark place like the medicine cabinet.

Trying Delta 8

Whether you want to try cannabis products for recreational use or for managing the symptoms of your condition, Delta 8 products are the ideal jump-off point. The main reason behind this is that the effects of Delta 8 are mellower compared to Delta 9.

But before you try Delta 8 products, here are a few things to bear in mind.

Invest in premium products

Look for Delta 8 products that pique your interest and create a shortlist. Next, whittle down your shortlist by researching each of these products.

As a rule of thumb, great quality products are better. These Delta 8 products are derived from quality hemp plants and have little to no unnecessary additives. Additionally, these products have been tested by third-party labs for purity and consistency.

Start with a low dose

When you are trying new cannabis products that you are completely unfamiliar with, the best approach is to start with a low dosage first. For a first-time user, this gives you the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the effects and potency of the product. Starting with higher doses can leave you overwhelmed. For gummies and other edibles, you can try smaller portions first.

Give it time

One mistake a first-time user needs to avoid is consuming more Delta 8 products than is necessary. This often happens when the desired effects do not kick in immediately. Remember, the effects of Delta 8 edibles usually kick in around two hours after ingestion, while vape oils take effect after half an hour. Before consuming more Delta 8, wait a few more minutes. Take note that the actual time it takes for the effects to kick in will vary depending on several factors, including dosage and personal metabolic rate. Just be patient to avoid overdosing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you overdose on Delta 8?

You can overdose on Delta 8. But unlike substances, an overdose on Delta 8 does not necessarily lead to fatalities. Instead, you may feel overwhelmed and experience side effects like anxiety, dizziness, fatigue, and low heart rate.

How long does it take for the effects of Delta 8 to wear off?

Delta 8 can stay in your body anywhere between an hour to four hours after ingestion. However, the effects wear off at different rates, depending on several factors including body weight. The cannabinoid is stored in body fat. And if you have a high metabolic rate, Delta 8 will be flushed out faster.

Does Delta 8 show up on a drug test?

A drug test can detect Delta 8 in your system. Although drug tests aren't designed to detect specific cannabinoids, they do screen for the THC-OOH metabolite.

How long does it take for Delta 8 edibles to kick in?

That depends on the type of edible you are using. With gummies, you can expect to feel the effects in as short as 15 minutes. However, the peak effects usually arrive between 45 minutes and an hour. With other edibles, the effects can kick in between 60 to 90 minutes after ingestion.

What does a Delta 8 high feel like?

As with other cannabis products, the effects of Delta 8 are highly subjective. Typically, the effects are similar to those from Delta 9 but mellower.