What Is Delta 8 THC? Everything You Need to Know

With all the available Delta 8 THC products in the market, many cannabis enthusiasts are wondering what this cannabinoid is and what potential benefits can it offer to them. Delta 8 THC is one of the many cannabinoids found in hemp and cannabis plants, but it’s not quite as famous as its cousin, Delta 9 THC. In this blog, we’ll delve into Delta 8 THC’s benefits and various forms and talk about how people use it.

What Is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid, like Delta 9 THC (the one most people know), but it has some key differences, which we will talk about later. Chemically, Delta 8 THC has a similar structure to Delta 9, but there’s a small difference in the position of a double bond in the molecule. It might not sound like much, but that tiny change gives Delta 8 its unique properties.

Some people say Delta 8 offers a smoother experience. But keep in mind, this isn’t a health claim; we’re just talking about its general effects. As for legality? Delta 8 THC sits in a bit of a gray area. In some places, it's fully legal, while in others, not so much. Laws around Delta 8 THC can change, so it's always best to check the regulations where you live to stay on the safe side.

How Delta 8 THC Differs from Delta 9 THC and CBD

If you’re searching for what Delta 8 THC is, you probably already know about Delta 9 THC and CBD. But how do they differ, and what’s the edge of Delta 8 compared to the other two? Here’s a quick comparison so you can easily spot the differences.

Psychoactive Effects

Delta 8 THC: Mild, smoother experience
Delta 9 THC: Stronger, more intense psychoactive effects
CBD: No psychoactive effects

Source

Delta 8 THC: Naturally found in hemp (usually extracted)
Delta 9 THC: Found in larger quantities in cannabis
CBD: Mainly extracted from hemp

Legal Status

Delta 8 THC: Legal in some areas but varies by state or country
Delta 9 THC: Strictly regulated in most places
CBD: Mostly legal as long as it comes from hemp

Common Use

Delta 8 THC: Found in flower, oil, gummies, and vapes
Delta 9 THC: Used in cannabis flower, oils, and edibles
CBD: Oils, tinctures, topicals, edibles

• Delta 8 THC vs. Delta 9 THC: While Delta 9 THC gives you that intense, familiar high, Delta 8 THC is known for being more mellow. Think of it like a lighter version—still noticeable, but not overwhelming. Some people say it's a smoother ride.
• Delta 8 THC vs. CBD: On the other hand, CBD doesn’t have any of the psychoactive effects that Delta 8 or Delta 9 offer. It's often chosen by those who want the benefits of cannabinoids without the high. Delta 8 sits comfortably between the two—mildly psychoactive but much more laid back than Delta 9.

Forms of Delta 8 THC

With Delta 9 THC, you’ve got options! Here are the popular ways users enjoy this cannabinoid:

What is Delta 8 THC Flower

Delta 8 THC flower is basically hemp flower that's been infused with Delta 8. If you’re into a more traditional approach, this one's for you. You can smoke it or use it in a dry herb vaporizer—either way, it’s a smooth experience. The effects hit a little quicker since you're inhaling it, making it a popular choice for those who want to feel it faster. More info about Delta 8 hemp flower here.

What is Delta 8 THC Oil

Prefer something a little more versatile? Delta 8 THC oil comes in a few different forms, like Delta 8 THC distillate, tinctures, and vape cartridges. Tinctures are typically dropped under your tongue for quicker absorption, while vape cartridges let you inhale Delta 8 in vapor form. Both methods are pretty convenient if you're looking for a low-maintenance way to enjoy Delta 8.

What is Delta 8 THC Gummies

For those who have a sweet tooth, Delta 8 THC gummies are a fan favorite. These edibles come in fun, tasty flavors and are super easy to take. Just pop a gummy in your mouth, and you're good to go! Keep in mind that gummies take a little longer to kick in since they have to go through your digestive system. So, if you're new to edibles, start with one gummy and wait a bit before having more.

Other Forms

You can also find Delta 8 THC concentrates, capsules, and topicals if you prefer to skip smoking or edibles. Capsules are as easy as taking a pill, and topicals can be applied directly to your skin. These are less common but still worth mentioning if you like exploring different options.

What Is Delta 8 THC Used For?

When people ask, “What is Delta 8 THC used for?” the answer is simple—it's all about the experience. Delta 8 THC has gained popularity for offering something different from the stronger, more intense Delta 9 THC.

Many people choose Delta 8 THC for recreational use, as it can provide a smoother, more laid-back experience. It’s also a go-to for those who want a little boost during social events or creative activities without feeling overwhelmed. 

In a nutshell, Delta 8 THC is often used for relaxation, fun, and exploring new experiences, all while keeping things light and manageable. Just remember, always start low and go slow, especially if you're new to Delta 8!

Legality of Delta 8 THC

Things can get a little tricky when it comes to the legality of Delta 8 THC. The rules vary depending on where you are, so it's always smart to double-check before purchasing or using it.

In the United States, Delta 8 THC is legal at the federal level thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, which allows hemp-derived cannabinoids as long as they contain less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC. But some states have passed their own laws restricting or outright banning Delta 8 THC. So, what’s legal in one state might not be in another. As for Canada, Delta 8 THC is considered a controlled substance under Canadian law.

Laws around Delta 8 THC are always changing, so make sure to stay updated on any changes. It’s a good idea to check local regulations before you grab your favorite Delta 8 THC gummies, flower, or oil to stay on the right side of the law!

Conclusion

Delta 8 THC is a unique cannabinoid that offers a different kind of experience compared to Delta 9 THC and CBD. It's known for its mild, balanced effects that many people enjoy for recreational and lifestyle purposes. Curious to explore more? Check out our selection of Delta 8 THC products and see what catches your eye. We also have available THCV, HHC, CBN, CBD for pets, CBG, kratom, THCA, mushrooms, THCA edibles, and even accessories for sale!

Ready to try? Find out the best places where to buy Delta 8 products here!