Although most people are aware of the push to legalize marijuana in Pennsylvania, resolution of this question is still a long way away. So while marijuana is presently not legal, the good news is that Delta-8 is.

If you’ve not heard of Delta-8, you are not alone. This article will discuss what Delta-8 is and how this alternative to Delta 9 THC offers potential health benefits. 

What is Delta-8? 

According to the National Cancer Institute, Delta-8 (short for delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol) is a relative of THC and exhibits similar antiemetic, anxiolytic, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. While it features many of the same benefits of THC (known as Delta-9), Delta-8 (also known as D8) has a lower psychoactive potency. However, D8 will absolutely provide a euphoric feeling when used as it binds to the same cannabinoid receptors that THC binds to in the brain. The difference is that users report a cleaner, calmer, and more poised feeling as compared to consuming marijuana.

If you are intrigued then know that you may have already consumed D8 via full spectrum CBD, raw hemp, or medical marijuana products. High quality Delta 8 products are extracted from organic hemp and most commonly come in gummies and cartridge forms.

With the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill hemp and its derivatives such as CBD and Delta 8 became legal (provided they contain <0.3% Delta 9 THC) and are rapidly growing in popularity and use. D8 is the next big hemp derivative that has quickly become a household name.

Delta-8 legal?

Before we discuss how D8 differs from D9, let’s address the obvious question that you are undoubtedly wondering about: Is Delta-8 legal? Well, the good news is that the answer is Yes in Pennsylvania.

The 2018 Farm Bill which allows for the manufacture and sale of any product derived from hemp plant provided that it contains <0.3% Delta-9-THC. Hemp derived THC may be manufactured under the The Controlled Substance Act provided that it contains legally compliant levels of Delta 9, which is why Delta 8 is legal. In fact, most Delta 8 products are manufactured to contain zero percent D9 THC.

How are Delta-8 and THC different? 

Delta-9 and Delta-8 are both cannabinoid commonly referred to as THC. They are both that known for providing psychoactive effects and can provide additional health benefits. Some differences are that D8 connects to the endocannabinoid system with both CB1 And CB2 receptors, whereas D9 binds only to the CB1 receptor. Similarly, CBD also binds to the same CB1 and CB2 receptors and so Delta-8-THC can be seen as cross between CBD and Delta-9-THC.

Many consumers also experience undesirable side effects when consuming Delta-9-THC such as the munchies, paranoia, cloudy thinking, and dry mouth. In contrast, Delta-8-THC does not cause these negative side effects and is being enjoyed by a rapidly expanding group of consumers. In fact, many Delta 8 consumers state that they experience relaxing psychoactive effects with more clarity of mind and uplifting effect on the body.

If you have questions about Delta 8 products in the Bethel Park or Pittsburgh area, feel free to call the CBD Wellness Store at 707-747-6081.