Delta-8 THC comes from hemp and is unregulated. Delta-8 products aren’t regulated for child-proof packaging, lab testing, or labeling regarding dosing or strength.
In general, delta 8 THC is considered to be safe since it doesn’t impact your immune system by itself. As a result, you won’t experience munchies, dry mouth, or bloodshot eyes at the least if you take low doses, as long as you take it in moderation. However, these side effects might occur in certain instances if the medication is taken at higher doses than recommended.
Delta-8 THC: what is it?
Humans can interact with hundreds of chemicals produced by the cannabis plant. Cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9 THC are the two main chemicals in cannabis.
Delta-8 doesn’t happen naturally. When exposed to light and air, delta-9 turns into delta-8. Manufacturers make delta-8 from hemp-derived CBD because there’s so little delta-8 in the plant. CBD is converted into this mind-altering substance using strong acids.
Delta-8 THC hasn’t been studied much in humans. However, the delta-8 version of THC produces similar effects as the more abundant and well-known THC (delta-9).
Delta-8 and delta-9 work thanks to CB1 receptors throughout the brain. Human research isn’t enough to say delta-8 is as potent as THC, but there are conflicting animal studies. It’s often called “diet weed” and sold as a weaker version of THC.
What’s the deal with delta-8 THC?
Earlier this year, the Farm Bill passed, legalizing hemp-derived chemicals. Delta-8 products are legal as long as hemp-derived CBD is used as the raw material.
Delta-8 THC products have been banned in several states for safety and health reasons.
Delta-8 THC: what are the dangers?
Several people have accidentally taken too much delta-8, not expecting to get high since it’s easy to confuse with hemp or CBD products. For someone who didn’t expect any psychoactive side effects, these side effects would be especially troubling:
- Panic, fear, or anxiety
- Brain fog and trouble coordinating your body
- Hearing or seeing things you don’t hear or see
- You’re having irrational thoughts, or you don’t feel like yourself.
What if you have severe side effects from delta-8 THC?
Rest assured that these symptoms are only temporary and will go away independently. If you accidentally ate too much delta-8, you might not feel normal for up to 12 hours.
While you are waiting, you should take care of yourself.= Poison Control or the ER is your best bet if you’re having trouble breathing or have other serious concerns.
Does Delta-8 THC have a higher risk than regular THC?
A lack of regulation is likely to be the biggest risk associated with delta-8, not the chemical itself.
There’s no way to tell how addicting delta-8 is since it’s so new. It’s likely, however, that delta-8 carries all the same risks as cannabis because of its similar effects and ability to activate the brain.
For some specific populations, delta-8 THC use has some serious risks, including:
- They’re teenagers.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Mentally ill people
- Heart disease sufferers
Is it safe to consume a certain amount of delta-8?
From a medical standpoint, there’s no difference between pure delta-8 and pure delta-9. Practically, no amount is safe because there’s no guarantee of purity (since there aren’t any regulations). The best way to serve delta-8 is to do more research.
The bottom line
Molecularly, delta-8 THC isn’t any more dangerous than delta-9. Delta-8 products are made in a way that leaves room for error. With delta-8 THC, you don’t get all the benefits of regulated cannabis since it exists in a legal gray area. In addition to lab testing, accuchildproof packaging, handling, and other basic safety assurances, we don’t have it.