What is Delta-8 THC? Is it Legal and Safe?

When most people think about THC, they are thinking about Delta-9 THC. This is the compound in marijuana that gets you high and is also heavily regulated by the government. However, there is another form of THC that is not restricted by the government; Delta-8 THC. Delta-8 is also usually available wherever you can legally buy CBD products.

What Exactly is Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 THC is a compound found in the same strains of cannabis used to make CBD oil. It has a similar psychoactive effect to the more familiar Delta-9 THC, but it is much milder. According to people who have tried both, Delta-8 is less than half as potent compared to Delta-9 THC.

While Delta-8 is extracted from CBD hemp, it has more in common with Delta-9, extracted from marijuana. That's because CBD doesn’t bond as easily with the endocannabinoid system, thus, it doesn't get you high, although it offers many health benefits. On the other hand, Delta-8 and Delta-9 latch right onto the endocannabinoid receptors. As a result, you will feel a psychoactive effect with Delta-8, but not as strong as you would taking Delta-9.

Also, Delta-8 is largely free of the negative side effects associated with marijuana, such as paranoia and anxiety. The effects of Delta-8 are marked by mild feelings of happiness and euphoria, and relief from pain. It can also help to relieve insomnia.

Is Delt-8 Legal?

Delta-8 THC is extracted from hemp in a similar way to CBD. Since it is extracted from hemp rather than marijuana, it exists in a sort of legal gray zone; unlike Delta-9 THC. Usually, Delta-8 is classified along with legal CBD products. However, that is on the federal level. Some states have passed legislation restricting Delta-8 THC products. But for now, you can buy Delta-8 products online, as long as it is not restricted in your state.

Is Delta-8 THC Safe?

Overall, Delta-8 THC appears to be safe. The main issue that can cause safety concerns is how the product you use is extracted and processed. That's why Calmway CBD makes sure all of our hemp flower strains are 3rd party lab tested for potency and to further ensure no microbial, mycotoxins, pesticides and heavy metals are in our products. 

Also, like marijuana, Delta-8 should not be given to children or pets. Be sure to keep any Delta-8 products you have at home, especially edibles, out of the reach of your children and animals.

Where Can Delta-8 THC be Purchased?

If your state has legalized recreational marijuana, you can probably find Delta-8 at your local dispensary. If your state has not legalized recreational marijuana, you might find Delta-8 at a shop that sells CBD.

If you can't find Delta-8 locally, you can buy it online. However, some states that have legalized recreational weed still restrict the sale of Delta-8 products. Before you buy any Delta-8 product online, be sure to check if the company can ship to your state.