What is Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is a type of minor cannabinoid that occurs in the cannabis plant along with the other potent cannabinoid, Delta-9 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), and Cannabidiol (CBD). Conduced as a safer analog of Delta-9 THC, this cannabinoid is now receiving particular attention from not only the marijuana entourage but also from doctors and scientists. This emerging curiosity is in notion with the promise this drug makes: “It will get you high, without the paranoia, anxiety, and side-effects attributed with Delta-9 THC.”

Delta-9 THC and Delta- THC ¾ how they differ?

There are three primary differences between these two cannabinoids that account for the difference in their potency and efficacy.

1.      The difference in chemical Structure

The main difference between these two cannabinoids resides in the characteristic position of the double bond present in their carbon chain. For Delta-9 THC, the double bond is present on the 9th carbon atom, while for Delta-8 THC, it presents on the 8th carbon atom.

2.      How it reacts with the Endocannabinoid system

Endocannabinoid System is a biological signaling pathway comprising of endocannabinoids (endogenous lipid neurotransmitters), cannabinoid receptors, and cannabinoid receptor proteins, traversing the whole central and peripheral nervous system. These signaling pathways are responsible for regulating many intricate human body functions like immune response, cell-signaling pathways, appetite, mood, memory, etc.

Both Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC binds to CB1 receptors, but their affinity for them and the action and reactions triggered as a result of this binding substantially differs due to peculiar change in their chemical structures. In terms of potency, Delta-8 THC is about half as effective as Delta-9 THC.

3.      Stability/ Shelf-life

Delta-9 THC is unstable and easily oxidized to Delta-8 THC or Cannabinol. However, Delta-8 THC is very stable, does not get easily oxidized, and hence has a longer shelf-life. An important property for medicines.

Anecdotal data and multiple animal studies conducted have supported the conjecture that Delta-8 THC gets consumers stoned without getting them anxious, paranoid with better concentration and cognitive viability. In addition to that, they have also proved to have substantial anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, anti-nauseatic, and appetite stimulatory effects. But more research is needed to construe staunch evidence that may pave their way to medicinal application.

Is Delta-8 THC legal?

Delta-8 THC had obscure legality until August 2020, when the U.S Drug Enforcement Administration added a briefing regarding the legal status of Delta-8 THC– Correlating it to the drug’s origin. The Delta-8 THC that originated from Cannabis sativa is declared illegal, while that originating from hemp-plant is assumed legal.

Delta-8 Cartridge

Delta-8 Vape Cartridges with a classic composition of around 95 hemp-derived ∆8THC oil and 5 strain-specific terpenes are marketed legally throughout the U.S and other countries with freedom. With a promise for a happy, calm, and uplifting experience, they are permitted to be purchased by a specific age group (those over 21 years of age). The cartridge operates by getting attached to a battery, which converts the oil within into