What is Delta-8-THC?
If you follow the exciting world of CBD at all, there’s a pretty high chance that you’ve heard of Delta-8-THC. You may have even seen it on our shelves. We’ve found that there are a lot of questions and mystery surrounding this lesser-known cannabinoid. While not everything is known about Delta-8-THC, we wanted to share what we do know and how it could make a great addition to your cannabis routine.
What is THC?
THC is shorthand for tetrahydrocannabinol, the main active compound in cannabis plants. THC interacts with receptors in the human body to produce the psychoactive effects associated with using marijuana. What you may not know is that the cannabis plant actually contains several different types of THC, and each of them is a bit different!
What is the difference between Delta-9 and Delta-8?
Delta-9-THC is the most common and abundant cannabinoid found in cannabis plants, but it’s not the only one. If you’ve used marijuana and felt euphoric, floaty, or happy, that’s thanks to Delta-9-THC. However, if you’re more sensitive to THC and have had increased anxiety or paranoia, that’s also likely due to Delta-9-THC.
In much, much smaller amounts, cannabis plants contain another significant tetrahydrocannabinol called Delta-8-THC. This form of THC has a lot in common with Delta-9-THC, but the differences can result in a much different (and for some, improved) experience.
The difference is at the molecular level. Simply put, Delta-8-THC and Delta-9-THC both have two unfilled chemical bonds in their chemical chains. Delta-8-THC contains this bond on the 8th carbon chain, and Delta-9-THC contains this bond on the 9th carbon chain (hence the names!). This may not mean much to you, but what it boils down to is a difference in how the cannabinoid receptors in our bodies react to these compounds. Delta-9-THC interacts with our CB1 receptors differently than Delta-8-THC, which is why Delta-9-THC is more associated with enhanced psychoactive effects.
In case you’re not a microbiologist, the easiest way to understand the difference is to compare the effects of these two types of cannabinoids. Delta-8-THC produces a “high”, but it tends to lean towards more of a body high than a head high. Appetite stimulation often associated with THC is still there, and maybe even more effective than Delta-9-THC. The overall effects are often said to be more full-bodied and leave the mind more easily focused than Delta-9-THC.
Why try Delta-8-THC?
Delta-8-THC is most popularly used for assisting the treatment of pain, anxiety, nausea, reduced appetite, and inflammation. Some users report that Delta-8-THC is more helpful with symptoms like nausea and anxiety than Delta-9-THC, though there is much more research that needs to be done before any of these claims can be completely validated.
Where Delta-8-THC is most useful is for users who have had success in treating these issues with Delta-9-THC products, but have had unwanted side effects like paranoia or decreased focus. Since Delta-8-THC has fewer of these reported undesirable side effects, for some it’s the best of both worlds.
Delta-8-THC is also helpful for users who have had some success with CBD products but have not managed to address all of the concerns they are attempting to treat.
How should I consume Delta-8-THC?
At Greenbelt Botanicals, we offer several ways to reap the benefits of Delta-8-THC.
Gummies
Discovering your ideal dosage is also easy to accomplish with edibles like our gummies. Since each gummy has a premeasured dose of Delta-8-THC, you should always small and adjust as you discover what works best for you. We have multiple flavors available for you to try
Vapes
Vaping is likely the most popular way to consume Delta-8-THC since it is one of the quickest ways to feel the effects. Vape cartridges are offered in a number of fun flavors and are easy to use.
Tinctures
Adjusting and controlling your ideal dose is often best accomplished with a tincture. While they may not be as fun as a vape cartridge, tinctures are a great way to understand how Delta-8-THC affects you and what dosage provides you with maximum benefits. First-time users can even choose a tincture that combines CBD and Delta-8-THC.
Wax
Add Delta-8-THC wax to your prerolls or cover the top of your next bowl of hemp flower for a boost to start your day.
Flower
We currently carry strains with added Delta-8-THC concentrate. Ask our employees for free bud taste testing the next time you stop by our South Lamar location or pick up a preroll from our Preroll Wall.
Understanding Delta-8-THC
Delta-8-THC is still not fully understood, but many users are already claiming to reap benefits from this emerging cannabinoid. If you still have questions, stop into Greenbelt Botanicals. We’re more than happy to help ensure that your first experience with Delta-8-THC is a positive one.