Delta 8 is the newest in a long line of buzzwords associated with the cannabis industry. And, it’s perhaps one of the most misunderstood in a long time. Delta 8 is a natural compound found in both hemp and marijuana. No doubt getting lot of attention as well because of its unique effects, one of which is psychoactive. Hemp brands are finding all kinds of creative ways to incorporate delta 8 into their various formulas. However, one particularly exciting option that’s becoming more and more popular is delta 8 hemp flower.
What is Delta 8?
Delta 8 is short for delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, or delta-8 THC. The THC compound that we’re used to is delta 9, as it’s quite a controversial compound that determines the legal difference between hemp and marijuana. [Source]
Let us explain further.
The cannabis genus is unique in that it contains a variety of cannabinoids, which are plant compounds that are utilized by the body via the endocannabinoid system. This bodily system is made up of a network of cannabinoid receptors which are located throughout the body. Cannabinoids bind with these receptors to produce regulatory effects that generally improve the function of the body holistically. CBD is the dominant cannabinoid in the hemp plant, and the one for which the hemp plant is largely known.
Delta 9 THC is another cannabinoid. In marijuana, you can find up to about 25 percent of this cannabinoid in the plant’s entire chemical composition. And yes, delta 9 THC is psychoactive, meaning that it gets you high. While it’s very abundant in marijuana, hemp only has about 0.3 percent of it. This is why hemp is legal while marijuana is not – hemp can’t get you high, while marijuana can.
So, what about delta 8 THC?
Well, in the hemp plant, you’ll find a trace amount of this cannabinoid which is like a little brother cannabinoid to delta 9. While delta 9 has very powerful psychoactive properties, delta 8 is much more mild. But, it is still psychoactive, meaning that it will get you high – just in a way that’s different from delta 9. Delta 8 users say that instead of feeling out of it, they feel noticeable changes in their mood that are favorable. They feel calmer, more clear-minded and sometimes euphoric.
Further, THC as a whole isn’t only used for its psychoactive properties. Numerous studies have been done about the potential wellness-boosting effects of both delta 8 and delta 9, which have nothing to do with getting a person high.
Is Delta 8 Legal?
We know what you’re wondering: if delta 8 is psychoactive, how on earth is it legal? Well, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp and all of its derivatives, including its individual cannabinoids. Delta 8 is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in the hemp plant, and so under federal law, it is considered legal.
How is Delta 8 Made?
If you consume products made with full spectrum hemp extract, or you use hemp flower, then you’re already consuming delta 8, even though it’s only a trace amount. Nowadays, however, companies are creating products that are high in delta 8. So, how is this possible?
To produce a delta 8 product, hemp companies must use a process that isolates and concentrates this compound. This is easier said than done, because as we said, delta 8 exists only in a very miniscule amount naturally in hemp. But, thanks to enormous advances in technology over the years, there are various efficient methods for creating delta 8 concentrate.
- Option #1: Isolate the naturally occurring delta 8 in hemp, and create a concentrate using a large amount of the raw flower. This is tedious and not very cost-effective but can be done.
- Option #2: Convert CBD into delta 8. This is possible because delta 8 is an isomer of CBD, meaning that it shares the same molecular makeup, except the molecules are arranged in different ways. Advanced techniques allow companies to rearrange the molecules in CBD to turn it into delta 8. This is cost-effective because CBD is naturally abundant in the hemp plant.
What is Delta 8 Flower?
There’s no such thing as delta 8 flower in nature. So, what companies are doing is infusing delta 8 isolate extract into raw hemp flower. This creates a mildly psychoactive flower product that gives you a generous amount of CBD and delta 8 with each and every dose.
How Does One Use Delta 8 Flower?
It’s most common to smoke delta 8 flower, but vaporizing it is another option. Further, you can create edibles with delta 8 flower by creating a fat with the flower.
5 Reasons to Use Delta 8 Flower
Now, let’s cover the five main reasons to give delta 8 flower a try.
#1: The More Cannabinoids, the Better
We know that cannabinoids work synergistically, and so it makes sense that getting in as many cannabinoids as possible is ideal if we want to experience their full bioavailability. Combining CBD with every other hemp compound and a uniquely high level of delta 8 may offer a more desirable cannabis experience overall.
#2: It’s a Legal Alternative to Marijuana
If you are looking for a legal psychoactive cannabis product, delta 8 flower is your best bud – no pun intended. It allows you to experience a psychoactive compound in the hemp plant, which is legal according to federal law.
#3: Milder than Delta 9
Many people who use delta 8 say it gives them the experience they’re looking for without paranoia or anxiety. Therefore, if you want a milder type of THC, delta 8 is the way to go.
#4: May Help You Unwind on a Whole New Level
Most delta 8 fans say that it helps them feel calmer, making it a great product if you’re looking for a natural way to calm stress after a long day.
#5: Fast-Acting Way to Experience This Natural Compound
Smoking or vaporizing delta 8 allows for the fastest-acting experience, as inhaling the compound into the lungs allows it to absorb within minutes.
How to Choose the Best Delta 8 Flower
Finding the right delta 8 flower is key if you want to have the best experience possible. Look for a trustworthy company that releases their lab reports to consumers to ensure that you know what you’re getting. Also, find out how the delta 8 was extracted to make sure that the process used yields the highest-quality, most chemically stable product. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to look at reviews from real users on a company’s website.
Make Delta 8 Flower Your Next Choice Today!
We expect delta 8 to continue to rise in popularity over the coming year, as it’s a unique cannabinoid that offers effects quite different from the other ones found in the hemp plant. If you’re someone who prefers flower, then delta 8 flower may be a great product to try out for yourself.