Now that cannabis is legal in much of the U.S., not only are more people trying CBD and other forms of cannabis, but a new form of THC has hit the market: delta-8. But what is delta-8-THC, and why are specialists worried about it? This article will teach you everything you need to know to safely buy delta-8 THC near you.

What is THC and What Does It Do?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is one of two psychoactive compounds in marijuana. While CBD, the other compound, eases anxiety and generally improves well-being, THC is the chemical in marijuana that makes people high. However, its pain-killing, relaxing effects come with several downsides.

The effects of THC include:

Positive:

  • Pain relief
  • Euphoria
  • Relaxation

Negative:

  • Time blindness/altered perception of time
  • Increased heart rate
  • Increased appetite
  • Nausea/vomiting
  • Hallucinations
  • Anxiety

What Delta-8 Does Differently

The usual form of THC is delta-9-THC. This version of THC is derived from marijuana. Note that hemp and marijuana are two varieties of the same plant; marijuana has higher THC while hemp has higher CBD.

Because delta-9 is from marijuana instead of hemp, it is not legal everywhere. It is also psychoactive with no two ways about it. Both of these points make it harder to market and more intimidating to would-be users.

Delta-8-THC is a synthetic version of THC. It is usually made from hemp, not marijuana, making it easier to make and market. Some buyers mistakenly think that this hemp-based chemical will not have any psychoactive properties at all, but this is not the case.

It is important to note that no versions of delta-8-THC have been approved by the FDA. Anyone who advertises their delta-8-THC as such is lying.

Why Do People Want Weaker THC?

People want weaker THC so that they do not get high or so that they do not suffer severe side effects. Not everybody enjoys the hallucinations or nausea that come with marijuana or delta-9-THC. Some users of delta-9/marijuana report having “couch lock,” or not wanting to do anything. With delta-8, they got some of the positive effects of delta-9 but were still able to be productive and functional.

If you’re familiar with people who can’t handle strong liquor, it’s easier to understand why someone might want weaker THC. Not everybody can handle whiskey; some people are content with wine or beer. On that note, please consult your doctor before taking any form of CBD/THC, and do not mix it with other drugs.

What Are Some Side Effects of Delta-8-THC?

First, people who have taken delta-8 assert that it does what it is supposed to do: grant the benefits of THC without as much of a high or crash. There are still some effects both ways, but they are less extreme.

That said, the side effects of THC are still present in delta-8. These include:

  • Anxiety
  • Increased heart rate
  • Nausea/vomiting
  • Loss of consciousness
  • ??????

We must elaborate on that series of question marks. Part of the problem with delta-8 is that it is synthetic. Anybody can make delta-8-THC, and some producers use unsafe chemicals in their delta-8 formulas. Because of this, there may be unforeseen side effects due to, in short, bad science. This has led to severe poisoning cases, and one instance of death.

Is Delta-8 Legal?

The legality of delta-8 depends on where you go. On a very basic level, delta-8 avoids many of the legal barriers that stop delta-9 because it is made from cannabis, not marijuana. But synthesizing delta-8 specifically varies with state and local laws. Many areas ban all unregulated forms of cannabis—not just delta-8. Please check your local ordinances if you plan to buy or purchase delta-8.

How to Read Your Delta-8 Label

Here are a few common warning signs so that you can tell in advance if your delta-8 is safe or not:

  • Look for nicotine on the label. Don’t buy any delta-8 with nicotine in it!
  • Vitamins are healthy to eat but not inhale.
  • Likewise, propylene glycol is a common food additive but should not be heated or inhaled.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. The complex names of chemicals can be confusing. If something sounds like it might be dangerous, it very well could be.

Remember that all delta-8 is unregulated. If you are concerned about the other chemicals in your THC, it is up to you to ask and decide for yourself. Anyone who doesn’t tell you where their mystery brew comes from may not be trustworthy!

Conclusion

Delta-8-THC is sought-after because the high is not as intense as delta-9-THC. For people who are sensitive to THC but still want the positive effects, delta-8 looks like an ideal solution. Although people who take delta-8 attest that it is milder than other forms of THC, there can be hidden chemicals or side effects that make it dangerous. It might even be illegal! If something looks too good to be true, it probably is. Please use delta-8-THC responsibly. We hope that our guide to the effects of THC allows you to do exactly that!