Delta 8 THC has been around for decades, but only became popular in the past several years. Why is that? The rise of this little-known cannabinoid will be the topic of focus today.
The story begins in 1941, when scientist Roger Adam published the partial synthesis of Delta 8 THC. 24 short years later, total synthesis of Delta 8 was achieved. This period marks a huge leap forward in our understanding of cannabinoids.
At the time, these discoveries didn’t gain much attention. Delta 8 existed in such small quantities naturally that knowing of its existence was of little relevance. It wasn’t until 1995 that Delta 8 resurfaced, as researchers utilized the substances’ lower psychoactivity. They discovered they could give high doses of Delta 8 to patients in order to make use of its antiemetic effects without the uncomfortable aspects of the “high” brought on by Delta 9.
By 2004, researchers figured out how to convert CBD into Delta 8, allowing for affordable formulation for the first time. And in 2018 the Farm Bill passed, making it federally legal to buy and sell delta 8 products. These two changes allowed the market to explode, leading to the rise of delta 8 seen in the past few months.
Where Does Delta 8 THC Come From?
The process used to turn hemp-derived CBD into Delta 8 is called isomerization. It uses chemical processes to break down the atomic bonds in CBD and transform them into Delta 8. Delta 8 is a minor cannabinoid, it occurs in exceedingly small concentrations in the plant.
According to the National Cancer Institute, Delta 8 is defined as an analog of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) with antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. Delta 8 binds to the cannabinoid G-protein coupled receptors CB1 and CB2. It also exhibits a significantly lower psychotropic potency than Delta 9.
Is Delta 8 THC Legal?
Delta 8 THC is federally legal, but it is not legal in all 50 states. It is illegal in the following states: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Idaho, Mississippi, Montana, Rhode Island, and Utah.
Michigan is a grey area because their controlled substance policy states that Delta-8 is an isomer and derivative is not legal under Michigan controlled substance policy. But under Michigan state law it says all cannabinoids, isomers, and derivatives of hemp are legal. In all other states, delta 8 is legal and users can buy and sell freely.
Why Do People Use Delta 8 THC?
People use Delta 8 for a wide range of reasons. Delta 8 is psychoactive for some users. But it is far less psychoactive than delta 9. It is euphoric and stimulates appetite. It can energize or relax the user depending on the terpene and cannabinoid profile.
Many people use it for sleep, depression, anxiety, relaxation, and anti-nausea treatment. Although Delta 8 and its effects haven’t gone through rigorous scientific testing. As of now, the cannabis community goes off of user experience. It can be different for everyone and it isn’t a “one size fits all”. Start small and slowly build up until you find what suits you best.
To recap, users often use it for the following:
- Mood booster
- Relaxing
- Soothes aches & pains
- Motivating
- Improved sleep
- Decreased nausea
- Increased appetite
The rise of delta 8 has been a major win for the hemp industry as a whole. Countless companies and users are benefitting from this legal THC. And the future of this compound appears very promising. Make sure to check back for more cannabis and hemp related news.