Is Delta-8 Safe? Things to Know Before You Use It
Delta-8 Effects
Wondering what exactly is delta-8? More widely available than its well-known cousin, delta-9 THC, delta-8 is derived from hemp. It is considered safe for its mild effects. Though more research is needed to know about the benefits and safety of delta-8, it has been found that the effects of delta-8 are milder than delta-9.
When delta-8 interacts with CB1 receptors it produces uplifting effects. These effects are not the same for everyone. Some of those who used delta-8 reported of a deep sense of relaxation and calmness throughout their body. This has made delta-8 a popular choice for those needing a good night’s sleep.
After being absorbed in the body, delta-8 THC binds directly with the CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system. This same behavior has been seen in the cousins of delta-8 too.
One of the most common questions asked about delta-8 dosing is, does it lead to a high? Delta-8 THC does have euphoric effects that are similar to the traditional delta-9 THC, but milder. Users call it the younger sibling of delta-9.
How to Find the Safest Delta-8 on the Market
Some of the common places to find delta-8 products is in a tobacco shop, in states where cannabis is considered illegal, or on shopping sites online. Delta-8 products are found in the form of capsules, vape cartridges, edibles, as well as tinctures.
But how do you ensure what you are going to buy is of a good quality and above all is that delta-8 product safe to use?
The lack of a regulated market has led to the availability of delta-8 products, both online and offline, that are not of a high quality and sometimes not even safe to use. There have been some cases of mislabeling of delta-8 THC products too.
So how can you be sure that what you’re buying is safe for consumption? Here are a few things for you to consider before you purchase delta-8 products for your use:
Reputable brand: First, always opt for branded delta-8 products whichever form they are available in; and second, buy only from a reputable brand. Don’t get mislead by lower costs or because someone referred a particular brand to you. Choose a brand that has been in the market long enough and has a reliable manufacturing line as well as being tested in a proper facility.
Accredited, third-party testing: Good and reputable brands always sell products that are tested and accredited by a third-party laboratory. That is why it makes sense to opt for delta-8 products that are safe and of a reputable brand.
Good customer reviews: Another reliable way of ensuring what you’ve chosen to purchase is by hearing from those who have already used the product themselves. A positive customer review can tell you how useful the product is and what you can expect from it after you purchase the delta-8 product.
Proper Use of Delta-8
More does not mean better. The proper way of using delta-8 is by ensuring you consume a serving size that is not too much. Some people make the mistake of equating the quantity consumed to the effects of delta-8.
This is not correct at all, and can lead to adverse effects. Some of the negative effects include, difficulty with thinking and body coordination, hallucinating, fear, panic, or anxiety. A few individuals also complained of having irrational thoughts and of a feeling of not being themselves.
For an enjoyable experience consume only as much as is needed. Taking too much does lead to uncomfortable times, because delta-8 has an affinity for CB2 receptors that are found in the immune and digestive systems.
Since there is no such approved dose that has been defined as yet, a safe way to go about is by starting with a small serving. This will help you understand how you react before you decide to opt for a larger serving size.
What you need to keep in mind though is that delta-8 vape cartridges, delta-8 flower, and delta-8 tinctures produce effects that are quicker than if you choose to go for delta-8 gummies that are edible. Usually, edible products take about 30 minutes to an hour to work.
If you do accidentally end up taking too much of a delta-8 product, rest assured that the effects are temporary and will decrease with time. Effects from taking too much of delta-8 in an edible form can take up to 12 hours to subside.
Anyone suffering from breathing difficulty or any such serious effect should immediately call Poison Control or get to the emergency department. Never waste time waiting it out and assuming the effects will wear off on their own.
What You Should Know About Delta-8
Some questions that are often asked include: is delta-8 safe, is delta-8 safe to vape, is delta-8 safe to consume in large quantities? Let’s find out the answers to these questions.
Delta-8 occurring naturally is very rare. It is delta-9 that turns into delta-8 when the plant is exposed to adequate air and light. Delta-8 is commonly called “diet weed,” and available in the market as a milder version of THC.
Since naturally occurring delta-8 is of such a small quantity, manufacturers make it in a factory setup. Hemp-derived CBD is used as the raw material to manufacture delta-8.
While ample research still needs to be done to find out if delta-8 is safe, lab and animal studies reveal that delta-8 produces effects that are very similar to the more well-known version of THC (delta-9). The FDA has yet to evaluate delta-8, its properties and effects, and most important of all, its proper serving size. Both delta-8 and delta-9 bind to CB1 receptors to produce mind-altering effects.
Widely enjoyed by many people, there have so far been no reports of any serious or adverse effects to delta-8. But what users need to keep an eye out for are irresponsible manufacturers selling low-quality products and delta-8 products that are sold without testing.
Though some states have opted to restrict the sale and use of delta-8, it is legal federally. More studies need to be done to know what constitutes a standard serving size for delta-8 and is delta-8 safe to use in certain quantities.