As a minor cannabinoid, there’s still a great deal that is unknown about Delta-8-THC, which necessitates a cautious approach toward using it.
Presently, the cannabinoid is generally available in concentrate forms, because most cannabis flower contains less than 1% Delta-8-THC. While some Delta-8-THC concentrates are isolates, other products may combine Delta-8-THC with CBD and/or Delta-9-THC to create more of an entourage effect.
While the knowledge we have about the entourage effect is based on Delta-9-THC, the molecular similarity of Delta-8-THC could mean that it produces enhanced effects when ingested, either as a medicinal or recreational product.
In general, the effects of Delta-8 are very similar to that of Delta-9, but toned down. Delta-8 offers a euphoria, stimulates appetite, and can energize or relax based on the terpene or cannabinoid profile. The National Cancer Institute recognizes Delta-8s as having “antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective qualities.” Learn about the therapeutic benefits of Delta-8.
Delta-8-THC binds to the CB1 receptor like delta-9-THC, but its affinity for the receptor is different due to its slightly altered molecular structure. The CB1 receptor is responsible for mediating most of the psychotropic effects of THC.
This differential binding may be responsible for the reported clearer high with reduced anxiety, and greater ability to concentrate often associated with Delta-8-THC. It’s possible that its unique molecular structure also impacts the chemical’s effects on other receptors and neural pathways.
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), Delta-8-THC binds to the CB1 receptors located in the central nervous system. Delta-8-THC additionally has an affinity for CB2 receptors, although less is known about this binding mechanism.
Delta-8-THC contains a bond on the 8th carbon chain, and is studied as having a noticeable effect on how the body’s endocannabinoid receptors bind and respond to the molecule. Delta-8-THC is stable, does not oxidize to become cannabinol, and boasts a prolonged shelf life. Such stability is very desirable in a medicinal compound.
Delta-8-THC is a minor cannabinoid occurring naturally in the hemp plant. It is an analog of Delta-9-THC, with the main chemical difference being a double bond on the 8th carbon rather than the 9th carbon of the molecule. Extractors are able to use molecular isolation to access large quantities of this cannabinoid from the plant.
Important things to note about Delta-8 THC: It tends to exhibit a lower psychotropic potency than traditional Delta-9, while similarly keeping the properties of appetite stimulation, nausea reduction, and pain alleviation users enjoy.
Delta-8-THC is an analog of Delta-9-THC, a molecule with a similar structure, but some notable differences. While the two share many similar properties, such as reportedly stimulating appetite, reducing nausea, and soothing pain, Delta-8-THC tends to exhibit a lower psychotropic potency than Delta-9-THC.
Delta-8-THC is a minor cannabinoid, occurring in very small concentrations. Commercial growers and extractors will often use selective breeding and molecular isolation to access greater quantities of Delta-8-THC.