If you thought CBD was powerful, just wait till you try delta-8 THC. 

This formerly unknown cannabinoid has received titles such as “the latest THC substitute” and “the breakout cannabinoid of the year.” [1] 

But is all this praise justified? 

It sure appears to be. Delta-8 provides what must be the best of both worlds: CBD’s relaxation and legality, and THC’s strength. It also provides users the opportunity to get healthier and higher…all at the same time! 

Keep reading to learn more about Delta-8 THC and how you can incorporate it into your daily wellness routine. 

• Why the farm bill changed things
• What is delta-8 THC?
• Delta-8 THC research
• Can delta-8 THC get me high?
• Where to find delta-8 THC

Why the farm bill changed things

Before we dive right into delta-8 THC, however, let’s go over some background info. 

In 2018 a Federal Farm Bill legalized hemp and hemp-derived cannabinoids with the sole exception of THC. According to this Bill’s language, any and all hemp-derived cannabinoids (besides delta-9 THC!) were now legal. [2]

Shortly after the Bill was passed, CBD’s popularity began to take off. In less than two years the mainstream’s awareness of CBD nearly tripled! CBD sales also took a steeply uphill trajectory. [3]

And then people — particularly those in the hemp industry — naturally began wondering about the legality of other hemp-derived cannabinoids. Was THCa legal? Was CBN legal? What about THCv?

So long as these cannabinoids really were extracted from hemp, the answer turned out to be yes. 

What is delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 THC is a close relative of ‘regular’ delta-9 THC. It’s referred to as an isomer of THC, which just means it has all the same molecular elements in a very slightly different arrangement. The angle of a single chemical bond is the only difference. 

But this slight difference gives delta-8 a tangibly different feel. It’s not quite as powerful as regular THC — in many ways, it feels more refined. It also has a more functional high. 

Delta-8 THC research

According to research done by the National Cancer Institute, delta-8 THC has “anxiolytic, antiemetic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties.” [4]

Other research shows that delta-8 binds to both CB1 receptors (the ones THC binds to) and CB2 receptors the ones CBD binds to). This dual binding affinity may be what keeps delta-8 highs so refined and mellow. [5] 

Far from promoting the type of memory problems often attributed to ‘regular’ THC, delta-8 THC may actually increase your brain’s acetylcholine levels and help improve memory. [6] 

Other studies have attested to delta-8’s unusual lack of side effects.

Can delta-8 THC get me high?

Yep — it sure can!

If you’re new to cannabis, however, don’t let this possibility scare you away. “People report [Delta-8] as being less anxiety-provoking, less sedating, and a little more clear-headed than [regular] THC,” says longtime cannabis expert and Harvard MD Peter Grinspoon. [8] 

Most people who try delta-8 find it totally fun…but also totally manageable. Other experts liken it to the ‘diet’ or ‘lite’ version of THC. [9] 

Summing things up

Are you sold on delta-8 yet?

If so, here’s some good news: finding premium delta-8 has become pretty easy. Just source it from an already established CBD brand! 

Our Delta-8 Gummies, Flower or even our Premium Vape Carts make seeing what delta-8’s all about both simple and fun. Look for our other delta 8 THC products to come out in the near future as well.