The world of cannabinoid extraction is in constant flux. New derivatives of the many hundreds of cannabis compounds are always being studied, derived and formulated into products – all while balancing on the legality set forth by the FDA. The newest, hottest cannabinoid sweeping the market now, Delta 8 THC, is particularly unique in its potential and controversy. In this article, we’ll discuss the potential, the controversy and the somewhat hazy future of Delta 8.
Delta 8 THC can be a number of colors from crystal clear, to honey, to dark brown
By manipulating this process through biochemical synthesis and supercritical CO2 extraction, higher quantities of Delta 8 THC can be collected for a number of product formulations. So, why is this cannabinoid becoming so popular? What makes it so unique? And what does the future hold under the cloud of legal uncertainty?
What’s the Difference Between Delta 8 and Delta 9?
There are single and double bonds in the molecular structure of these compounds and the positioning of those bonds are important in differentiating various them. They are not all too different from each other in how they act, but obvious gaps are distinguished within their own effects. Both are psychoactive compounds which bind to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system which are involved in altering mood, behavior, perception, etc., but their strength level differs significantly. As a result of this, Delta 8 is considered to be more mild than Delta 9. Let us go into additional detail of these effects, benefits and detriments of Delta 8 THC.
While the effects are similar between both of these cannabinoids, Delta 8 THC is considered to be generally less powerful compared to Delta 9 THC. While both Delta 9 and Delta 8 interact with the exact same endocannabinoid receptors, the efficacy of Delta 9 will be significant as reported from users of these cannabinoids. The chemical structure of Delta 8 and Delta 9 is almost indistinguishable apart from a really slight alteration in the positioning of 2 electrons in its own structure. Although the version is slight, that chemical difference is the main reason behind its legality, its impact, and its usage in cannabis products.
Medicinal Potential of Delta 8 THC
Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol is a unique and very individualized cannabinoid nonetheless, though there have been some studies on Delta 8, the effects and possible medical and therapeutic benefits could vary from person to person
Stress
Normally, Delta 8 THC is found to create similar effects to Delta 9 THC without common side effects like anxiety and paranoia, which are often reported with Delta 9 THC. In fact, Delta 8 reportedly suppresses anxiety based on consumer experience. It might possibly be an anxiolytic agent, meaning it suppresses anxiety. This was originally analyzed in the 1970’s in rats and eventually was administered to pediatric cancer patients in 1995. Slow progress on exploring the advantages Delta 8 has been made, but even previous studies could reveal prosperous benefits.
Nausea
Nausea and vomiting is a common sign of numerous ailments and a negative impact of several distinct treatments, for example chemotherapy with cancer. Similar to Delta 9 THC Delta 8 may very well be an antiemetic agent, or anti-nausea compound. While this a similar property of Delta 9 THC, because of the legality and less potent effects of Delta 8 means that its use has more potential for those who are sensitive to THC or who are younger than the legal age of recreational use.
Pain
An interesting effect that Delta 8 has on the human body is unique to corneal damage and pain and neuroprotective properties as well. Also, because of its considerably reduced psychoactive properties, the usage of Delta 8 could be more safely administered to individuals otherwise negatively affected by Delta 9 THC, especially kids and those sensitive to the side-effects of their more potent Delta 9 THC.
One of the most common products for Delta 8 THC is in the form of vaporizer cartridges
The legality of Delta 8 THC
From the DEA’s list of controlled substances, tetrahydrocannabinols are listed as illegal, so wouldn’t that contain Delta 8? According to this 2018 Farm Bill, this might not be the situation. In Section 12619(b) of the Farm Bill, tetrahydrocannabinols are especially mentioned stating that any kind of THC in the hemp plant using a Delta 9 material of 0.3% is lawful at the federal level. Though this is the case, certain state legislation does vary meaning Delta 8 and other cannabinoid based products might be illegal despite being derived from hemp. Because of this, it is critically important to assess and abide by state laws as both a manufacturer and a consumer.
Because Delta 8 thc is psychoactive like Delta 9 THC, there are plenty of perceived issues with its use, legality and morality in the United States and other nations around the world. Both manufacturers and consumers who approve of the medicinal and recreational advantages of Delta-8 are diving into the potentials as a substitute for the still federally illegal Delta-9. Those who disapprove, however, see Delta 8 as only a legislative loophole to let people get high.
Regardless of push-back from a few, it’s critical that recreational and medicinal studies of Delta 8 continue for the benefit of the industry and consumers too. Although psychoactive properties are notable in Delta 8, the simple fact that intoxicating effects are substantially less heavily opens the possibility of either an extra cannabinoid on the market, or possibly a replacement for all those sensitive, nervous or simply in disagreement with the use of Delta 9 THC.
The Future of Delta 8 THC
The 2018 Farm Bill has definitely opened the door for broad opportunities connected to the hemp plant. While cannabinoids such as CBD have proven to provide substantial benefits in terms of medicinal potentials, fresh chances surround compounds like Delta 8 THC and other upcoming cannabinoids derived from the hemp plant. It is understandably accurate that this business will only increase in potential, profitability and guarantee.
Even though there’s some controversy surrounding tetrahydrocannabinols such as Delta 8 THC, the risks connected with it tend to be misconstrued when compared to the wide array of advantages in recreational, medicinal, and industrial programs. Of course, it is crucial to be conscious of the responsibility of these chemicals, whether using, or producing their merchandise, to be a beneficial aspect of the sector as a whole. As new cannabis compounds like Delta 8 THC emerge, this responsibility must grow with it so as to ensure a consistent progression of hemp and cannabis industries in the future.
