Introduction
There has been news about some crazy statistics all across the world about the popularity of delta-8 since 2020. Delta 8 THC has become one of the most consumed cannabis products in no time. You will find delta-8 products in different varieties like vapes, pre-rolls, gummies, tinctures, and more. Over 16% of Marijuana users are reportedly using delta-8 as well.
You might have read news articles in recent years concerning delta-8. Since the beginning of 2020, Google searches for the phrase have increased by more than 800% in the US alone. Since there is no strict law passed that restricts the use of delta-8, the adoption of delta-8 has particularly escalated in states where recreational marijuana and relevant products are strictly prohibited.
What’s driving the delta-8 popularity
No law prohibits the use of delta-8: Delta-8 is accepted as legal in a lot of states. Actually, at the federal level. Because it is made from hemp and is below the legal limit of Delta-9 THC, it is not specifically stated as being unlawful. This makes the substance very alluring to consumers worldwide, especially if you happen to reside in a state where it is either too exorbitant, too difficult to obtain, or just illegal to purchase cannabis in general. Delta-9 is considered illegal because it is derived from Marijuana but delta-8 is produced from both hemp as well as Marijuana. Hemp-driven delta-8 is not illegal to consume in controlled amounts.
Less intoxicating properties: Although the chemical structures of delta-8 and delta-9 THC are close, they are not identical. Perhaps this is one of the primary causes of Delta-8's increasing popularity. It undoubtedly produces a lesser, although similar, psychedelic sensation than delta-9. Due to the lesser effects, Delta-8 is frequently referred to as "light marijuana." Compared to regular Delta-9 cannabis products, the high is often more calming and less intense. This makes it a great option for those who are just starting out with cannabis or for those who find the typical high of weed to be too intense.
Why delta-8 popularity is a concern?
People frequently wonder whether the reason Delta-8 THC is more well-liked than both CBD and Delta-9 THC is that it provides a better experience of high. Delta-8 is a great game and already a massive population is blindly using it. Despite being mildly psychotropic, it is allowed in 38 states and equally as ubiquitous as CBD and THC in that it may be added to almost anything. It is however hard to categorically state that Delta-8 is superior to CBD or Delta-9. It's simply unique!
Keeping everything in mind, the fact still cannot be ignored that delta-8 is a relevantly novel variant. Not a lot of research has been done in this area and since it's not been long, one cannot say if it leaves any long-term health hazards on the human body. Right now, the masses are only concentrating on its mild and less psychoactive effects which make it the ideal substance but no one is aware if it is better than other variants like delta-9 in the long run. Regulators also aren't prepared for it. The fastest-growing product in the hemp sector, delta-8-THC, is currently under intense state-level pressure to limit sales. Several states are contemplating regulations, and more than a dozen have outright forbidden delta-8-THC. And it's not just a US problem.
66% of those who consumed food products containing delta-8 THC mentioned negative side effects. The following health risks have been linked to excessive consumption of delta-8 THC: hallucinations, vomiting, tremor, anxiety, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
Final Word
Delta-8-THC is produced from hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD). It is available in form of different edible versions like gummies, smoking options include vape goods, and other varieties, frequently with no restrictions on the age of buyers. ID verification is reportedly seen to be very scarce before selling any delta-8 products especially online. Chemists are worried about the contaminants produced by the Delta-8-THC synthesis process because there is no regulatory supervision and no lab testing. These could contain trace levels of metals, strong acids, and delta-9 and delta-10 THC. The whole spectrum of byproducts is unknown and varies depending on the production method. Some people use solvents like dichloromethane because the exothermic process needed to convert CBD to Delta-8-THC produces tremendous heat. Many times, proper production safety precautions are not applied. Although it "may make you incredibly high," delta-8-THC can leave users feeling "mildly euphoric," and high doses might make people anxious.
