Is Delta 8 Psychoactive?
With all of the hype that delta 8 has been getting recently, you’re probably curious about this cannabinoid. Delta 8 has been advertised as an alternative to traditional THC. But, how does delta 8 actually compare to THC? What can you expect after consuming it? Is delta 8 psychoactive? Keep reading to answer these questions, and learn more about delta 8.
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What is delta 8?
Delta 8 started popping up everywhere, from gas stations to head shops, seemingly overnight. But what exactly is it? Delta 8 is actually a form of THC. Traditional THC is delta 9 THC. The difference between the two is due to their molecular structure. Delta 8 contains a double bond on the eighth carbon atom in its chain, while delta 9 has a double bond on the ninth carbon.
Delta 8, like delta 9 THC, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid. But, delta 9 is wayyyy more abundant than delta 8. Delta 8 only occurs in trace amounts, which is why this cannabinoid stayed under the radar for such a long time.
Is delta 8 psychoactive?
A cannabinoid’s molecular structure dictates how we feel after consuming it. This is because their shape influences how securely it will (or won’t) attach to our CB1 receptors. These receptors are a part of our endocannabinoid system. An attachment to the CB1 receptors, located primarily in the brain, produces a high. Delta 8 does attach to these receptors, but not as securely as delta 9. So, yes, delta 8 is psychoactive.
Since delta 8 doesn’t attach as securely to these receptors as delta 9, delta 8 is less potent. You may have heard delta 8 referred to as “diet weed”; this is why. The high is less intense than delta 9.
A different high
Less potency might sound like a buzzkill, but there are actually a whole host of benefits to the milder experience. For instance, if you’re someone who is prone to anxiety or paranoia when stoned, then delta 8 might be the cannabinoid for you. Less potency means less potential to become anxious or paranoid. This survey revealed some positive things about the delta 8 high. Of 521 participants, 74% did not experience anxiety after consuming delta 8, and 83% didn’t experience paranoia.
In case you’re thinking delta 8 simply doesn’t hit, rest assured. 71% of participants in this same survey claimed they experienced high levels of relaxation, and 68% were euphoric. In other words, they can confirm that delta 8 is indeed psychoactive.
Other pros
In addition to skipping the anxiety and paranoia, delta 8 offers its users a less intense high. This is great for anyone looking to add a little buzz to their day without their productivity coming to an absolute standstill. For users looking to reap the benefits of THC without the intensity, delta 8 is an excellent option. However, if you’re looking to feel something a little more intense, all you have to do is consume more delta 8, and you’ll be there.
Why now?
You may be wondering why delta 8 suddenly became everywhere after being virtually unheard of by most stoners. Delta 8’s surge in popularity is brought to us by 2018 Farm Bill. This bill legalized hemp on a federal level. Legally, hemp is defined as cannabis containing .3% or less delta 9 THC. An unintentional loophole to this bill is that it legalized psychoactive cannabinoids like delta 8 on a federal level, provided the could be derived from hemp. So even though delta 8 is psychoactive, it’s legally classified as hemp.
That being said, individual states have their own thoughts regarding the recent cannabinoid conundrum. Some have affirmed the federal law, others have implemented regulations, and still others have banned delta 8 and other similar cannabinoids altogether. Definitely be aware of the laws in your state before indulging in delta 8.
The bottom line
Like its more famous cousin THC, delta 8 is psychoactive. It’s simply less potent than THC. This difference is due to its molecular structure and the resulting attachment to our CB1 receptors. The reduced potency means a less intense high, with less potential for anxiety and paranoia. If those are things you struggle with, then delta 8 might be an excellent option for you. Even if you’re not worried about being worried, delta 8 offers the benefits of THC without the intensity. And of course, DVNT has you covered if you’re looking to explore the psychoactivity of delta 8 for yourself.