What does Delta 8 Do? Things to Know About Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol  

Delta-8 THC is a natural chemical compound found in hemp and cannabis plants. Recently, the substance has gained popularity as a milder alternative to the more common Delta-9 THC. As a result, it is now accessible in many local weed dispensaries across the US. You can find out more about this compound below.  

Reminder: What is Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol?  

Cannabis or hemp plants contain over 80 chemical compounds and are often applied in holistic science. However, Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabinol are the two most commonly used Cannabis compounds. This is because they interact with the body in different ways. So, what is Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol? 

Like CBD, THC is found in the cannabis sativa plant, but it doesn’t have the same effect on the central nervous system. The most common type of THC, Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol, is known to have intoxicating effects and causes highness. However, recent studies have discovered Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol as a milder, less potent sister compound.  

Delta-8 THC is similar to the Delta-9 variant but doesn’t give the same heightened high sensation. It also produces feelings of euphoria and relaxation. It may be effective for pain relief but packs a lesser punch than Delta-9 THC. In addition, Delta-8 is well-tolerated in users who cannot handle the intense effects of THC.  

Three Potential Benefits of Delta-8 THC  

Amidst the controversy surrounding the compound, some researchers believe that Delta-8 might be a game changer for consumers in the marijuana industry. Many claims that it has effectively managed the symptoms of mental and physical conditions such as anxiety, pain, etc. Here are some of the three significant potential benefits of Delta-8 THC below.  

1. Delta 8 Could Relieve Pain 

Delta-8 THC is a synthetic form of marijuana that is often used to relieve pain. Scientists believe it may alter pain perception pathways in the brain, which controls our body’s response to pain. In addition, it also comes with anti-inflammatory properties and may help to reduce swelling and inflammation.  

Studies have also shown that medical marijuana can help to replace long-term NSAIDs like ibuprofen and other pain medications, which have adverse side effects. Even though Delta-8 THC is milder, it has similar effects to Delta-9 THC for pain management and muscle relief. You can also ask your physician about using Delta-8 THC to relieve pain at your next doctor’s appointment.  

2. Delta 8 Can Help You Relax  

Delta 8 THC is now commonly used recreationally; many claim it helps reduce anxiety. After a long day at the office, you may be tempted to relax by taking some Delta 8 marijuana extract. It is known to have mind-boosting properties and offer feelings of euphoria and excitement.  

This sensation is often described as high and a common side effect of Delta-9 THC. However, Delta-8 THC is less potent and doesn’t leave an intense feeling of highness. As a result, you may experience the same feelings of euphoria and relaxation without any intoxication. 

3. Delta 8 could improve appetite 

Many people have reported using Delta 8 THC to change their eating behavior and treat appetite loss. It can be challenging for people with chronic illnesses to maintain a proper diet, and many can’t help skipping meals. Delta 8 Tetrahydrocannabinol has psychological effects and may help you eat more.  

Generally, you may find it hard to eat when dealing with chronic pain or other serious health issues. However, scientific research has shown that THC can help to trick the appetite signals into pain and cause hunger. This is often referred to as munchies and causes intense food cravings where you want to keep eating. 

Why Should You Be Careful Taking Delta 8 THC?  

Delta 8 THC was recently discovered as a milder form of Delta 9 THC, which is the substance that causes highness in the cannabis plant. Researchers believe THC works by binding to specific cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nerves to regulate neuropathic responses.  

In addition, many holistic consumers take Delta 8 THC recreationally to help with multiple sclerosis, nerve pain, nausea, substance abuse, and other underlying health conditions. However, there is no conclusive scientific evidence backing the use of this substance despite the multiple claims from consumers that it works. We still don’t know the science behind how Delta-8 THC interacts with the body.  

Meanwhile, another point against Delta-8 is that it is hard to find authentic products. Many people don’t even know how to tell Delta-9 apart from Delta-8 THC, and they fall victim to scam vendors. In addition, since there is no specific dosage or prescription for Delta-8 THC, it is hard to know exactly how much of the substance is suitable for your body.  

Some people have also complained of side effects such as headaches, nausea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting after using THC. However, there are few to no studies on how Delta-8 THC can impact the body. It is also less like that your doctor will be able to help since most THC products have not been approved for medical use.  

Let’s Compare Delta 8 With Other Molecules  

Delta-8 THC is a synthetic variant of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), one of the main compounds in the cannabis plant. The use of cannabis compounds (cannabinoids) in medicine and holistic practice has grown over the years. But these cannabinoids interact with the human body differently and have individual effects.  You can discover the best Delta-8 brands here.

Delta-8 vs. CBD  

Cannabidiol is one of the many compounds found in the cannabis Sativa plant. It is widely used for treating the symptoms of many underlying health issues like anxiety, sleep disorders, and chronic pain. Also, CBD doesn’t cause any psychoactive effects or highness associated with THC.  

However, Delta-8 THC is much different. Delta-8 is synthetically derived from THC in cannabis plants. Even though Delta-8 THC has the same chemical structure as the Delta-9 product, it is less strong and leaves a milder effect. We also need further research to understand the impact of Delta-8 THC on the body entirely.  

Meanwhile, CBD is derived from the leaves and buds of cannabis plants and other aerial components of the plant. But, to obtain Delta-8, scientists use a distillation method to extract the compound synthetically. This means that Delta-8 isolate is not naturally present in the hemp plant.  

In addition, some manufacturers also convert CBD into Delta-8 THC after a long extraction process. This may be why many claim that Delta-8 has similar effects to CBD and can be helpful in ensuring relaxation. However, there needs to be more ongoing research on what Delta 8 THC can do for health, unlike the various studies backing CBD intake for wellness.  

Delta 8 vs. Delta 9  

Delta-8 and Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol are found in the cannabis Sativa plants but in varying amounts. Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol is one of the major THC extracts sold in many local dispensaries, while Delta-8 is less common. Though they have the same chemical structure, Delta-8 THC is milder and less potent than delta-9, known for its mind-altering effects.  

Delta 8 vs. Delta 10  

Delta-8 and delta-10 THC have a weaker effect than delta-9 THC, which is one of the most potent THC extracts. Delta-10 THC is the weaker of the two, and it is said to have an uplifting effect, unlike Delta-8 THC, where many users report feeling relaxed or sleepy. Both cannabinoids may also provide a euphoric high without extreme anxiety and paranoia.  

How Long Will It Take To Feel The Effects of Delta 8?  

The effects of cannabinoids will vary slightly depending on the potency, type of product, body weight, and metabolism. Whether you’re taking CBD or THC, you must find a suitable dose before administering the product. Many people also claim that they start to feel the effects of Delta-8 THC after about 30-60 minutes of taking it orally.  

However, if you’re smoking the compound, you may feel the effects immediately. We also recommend eating THC edibles instead of smoking, but it takes longer to enter the bloodstream and takes effect. We also recommend starting with a small dose because many overestimate how much Delta-8 THC their body can handle.  

See also: Articles, Delta-8, Research & Studies

Enny Soyinka

PharmacologistExpertise : Research on cannabinoids, Brand Reviewer

Enny Soyinka stands at the forefront of hemp research, blending a deep-rooted passion for holistic health with a robust scientific background. As an accomplished pharmacologist, Enny's extensive research into hemp has made them a pivotal figure in demystifying its health benefits. Their expertise shines a light on the nuanced relationship between cannabinoids and wellness, offering well-informed insights in the dynamic world of cannabinoids.