Delta-8 is a compound derived from Cannabis sativa or the hemp plant. This is the same natural origin that CBD, THC, CBG, CBN, and CBC come from.
Though all of these compounds are related to some degree, delta-8 is closest to CBD and delta-9 (also often known plainly as THC). Don’t let the names confuse you. Delta-8’s full technical name is delta-8 THC. But it is not delta-9 THC and does not cause the same effects.
Like CBG, also known as “the mother of all cannabinoids,” delta-8 actually exists in the hemp plant in extremely small quantities. Though delta-8 has been studied for decades now, the overwhelming surge in hemp and CBD products makes more widespread use possible. Through sophisticated isolation and breeding processes, it’s possible to extract enough delta-8 to actually accomplish some things with it.
Understanding delta-8 and CBD
Now that you know delta-8 is on the spectrum between CBD and THC, just how close is it? Well, chemically speaking, delta-8 is just a slight variant of delta-9. In terms of the effects you’ll feel from taking CBD, delta-8, or delta-9, how do they all stack up?
The best way to understand it is this:
- CBD: CBD can offer many benefits, especially to users who are new to cannabinoids in general. However, it may take some time to find the right CBD product for you. Again, CBD is not psychoactive, so you should not be expecting a high from it.
- Delta-8: D8 sits at a notch above CBD. Users who have tried taking CBD for a long time and have not found success may experience the results they’re looking for with delta-8. D8 offers a high that’s different than delta-9 and is roughly one-third to one-half as psychoactive. Users describe the feeling from it as being relaxed, clear-headed, and energized.
- THC: THC, though illegal in many places, is still legally prescribed. Some people need THC for its potent ability to combat nausea and promote appetite, especially if they have a chronic illness.
Benefits and where to buy delta-8
According to the National Cancer Institute, the medical benefits of d8 include anti-nausea and anti-anxiety effects, appetite stimulation, pain relief, and more. According to some studies, d8 also can help those with low libido, menstrual cramping, have suffered a brain injury, or are dealing with a hangover.
You can shop for d8 products, all legally, on dd8shop.com. Of course, it’s important to also involve a health professional in your decision. He or she can best determine whether or not CBD or d8 could be right for you.