Is Delta 8 Safe?
Delta 8 has received a lot of attention within the last several years. Though it’s said that all press is good press, there have definitely been some questions raised about the safety of delta 8. While some are loving delta 8 as an alternative to delta 9, others are convinced that delta 8 is not safe. What is the truth? Is this “new” cannabinoid a legitimate way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis? Or, is it a sketchy fad that does more harm than good? Read on to find out if delta 8 is safe, and everything there is to know about this controversial cannabinoid.
What is delta 8?
Delta 8 is a form of THC. The THC that we have all known and loved for decades is actually delta 9 THC; what we have here is delta 8 THC. The difference between the two cannabinoids lies in their chemical structure. Both contain a double bond on their carbon chain. Delta 8’s double bond lies on the eighth carbon in the chain, while delta 9’s is on the ninth.
Delta 8 vs THC
Both cannabinoids occur naturally in cannabis; however, delta 9 is substantially more abundant than delta 8, which is only present in trace amounts. Additionally, delta 8’s molecular shape is different from delta 9. Delta 9’s shape is perfectly compatible with our CB1 receptors; it attaches to those receptors like a key fitting into a lock. An attachment to these receptors produces a high. Delta 8 still attaches to these receptors, but not with as much affinity as delta 9. So, delta 8 is still psychoactive, but not as potent as delta 9.
Why now?
If delta 8 has always been part of cannabis, why is it just taking off now? Delta 8’s recent surge in popularity is due to the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill. This bill legalized hemp on a federal level. Legally, hemp is defined as cannabis containing .3% or less delta 9 THC by weight. Since delta 8 can be made from hemp, it’s technically legal on a federal level. However, since the passing of the bill, individual states have taken matters into their own hands. Some states have affirmed the federal law, others have implemented regulations to govern the hemp cannabinoid market, and the rest have imposed bans. Definitely stay up to date with what’s going on in your state before indulging.
How is delta 8 made?
As I mentioned above, delta 8 can be made from hemp. This process is known as isomerization. Most, if not all, of the delta 8 currently on the market is made this way. Chemists begin by isolating CBD from hemp. Next, a solvent is added to melt the CBD, followed by acid reagent to induce the reaction that converts CBD to delta 8. Once the CBD becomes delta 8, an alkaline material is used to neutralize it. Finally, the new cannabinoid is washed and distilled.
Is delta 8 safe?
When handled by professionals, delta 8 is safe. I don’t think I need to tell you not to try making it at home. But, lab testing is absolutely essential. This is where safety comes in. The conversion process is literally an exact science, and it’s important to make sure there are no leftover byproducts in the delta 8. These byproducts would include the acid reagent, or the metal catalysts.
If you don’t shop from reputable stores, like DVNT, you really don’t know what you’re getting when it comes to delta 8. Unlike delta 8, cannabis in states where it is legal is subject to rigorous lab testing to ensure safety. Currently, there are no federal regulations in place to govern delta 8 products.
Why DVNT?
Here at DVNT, we do the right thing because it’s the right thing to do. You deserve to know what is (and isn’t) in the delta 8 you’re consuming. We even share our lab test results right on our site so you can rest assured that you’re shopping smart. Not only does lab testing certify that all of the byproducts are gone, but it also confirms the final cannabinoid content in each product. If you’re trying to avoid delta 9, you want to make sure there’s none in the delta 8 you’re about to smoke.
The bottom line
Delta 8 is safe, provided you shop smart. Lab testing is vital to ensure that the delta 8 you’re about to enjoy is free from harmful byproducts, and contains the same cannabinoid content that’s advertised. You can always count on DVNT to provide you with safe delta 8 blunts and prerolls. Shop with confidence, and experience the joys of delta 8 without the stress.