Recent studies found that approximately 49% of adults have tried marijuana. Compared to 50 years ago, this percentage is up nearly 45%, and the number keeps growing.
While many states have started legalizing medicinal and/or recreational marijuana use, you may have come across a new debate: is delta 8 safe? Delta 8 is a relatively new product, emphasizing a milder high compared to traditional THC products.
Additionally, it is legal in most states since it follows legal THC guidelines. But how can you ensure you have a safe experience trying delta 8? Luckily, we have a must-read guide for you.
In our article, we closely review what delta 8 is and how it compares to delta 9. Keep reading on until the end and find out the answer to “is delta 8 safe?”
What Is Delta 8?
Delta 8 THC is found in the cannabis plant and is one of many types of cannabinoids used in marijuana products. It is not widely prevalent, and most delta 8 products are synthetically made from CBD.
Because of how it is made, delta 8 THC tends to provide less of a “high” compared to other products like delta 9. Most consumers describe delta 8 as somewhere between smoking weed and consuming CBD products, making it an excellent middle-of-the-road product.
Is Delta 8 Safe?
All THC products have their risks and benefits, including delta 8. For example, regularly smoking cannabis can irritate your lungs, leading to chronic cough and lung illnesses. Too much THC can also heighten paranoia and anxiety symptoms.
On the other end of the spectrum, the benefits of delta 8 and other THC products are vast. Experts have found several positive uses of cannabis products to alleviate adverse symptoms related to pain and anxiety.
The FDA has also approved CBD medications to treat specific types of epilepsy. So far, the FDA has released little information on answering the question, “is delta 8 safe?” It is a relatively new synthetic creation, and more research and studies are needed to understand its full effects.
Most of the FDA warnings are standard protocol for several THC products. First, you need to be aware that THC products are not FDA approved to treat medical conditions. Additionally, there have been some instances of adverse health events with individuals who consumed delta 8 products.
Most of these cases involve purchasing and using low-quality delta 8 products. Since delta 8 is synthetically made, manufacturers could add other harmful ingredients or mislabel their products.
Delta 8 vs. Delta 9 Safety
When asking, “is delta 8 safe?” it is important to compare it to its close counterpart: delta 9. Delta 9 is the umbrella term for THC products and the primary psychoactive ingredient in the cannabis plant.
Delta 9 THC attaches to cannabinoid receptors, producing psychoactive effects that can last for a few hours. It also stimulates the release of dopamine, leading to euphoric feelings. Delta 8 is derived from hemp products containing less than 0.3% THC.
This produces a milder high while helping with similar ailments that CBD is often used for. It also makes it legal in more states.
Like delta 9, delta 8 should not be used with children. Adults should also exercise caution if they start to experience:
- Increased anxiety
- Poor memory
- Poor cognition
There are two instances that may lead to a poor reaction. First, it is essential you start on a low dose. For many, ingesting too high of a dosage results in heightened senses of anxiety and paranoia.
Next, look at where you purchased your cannabis products from. It could be that you received a poorly manufactured and mislabeled product. Experts advise that you exercise the same cautionary steps for delta 8 as you would delta 9.
Types of Delta 8
There are several types of delta 8 for purchase, including gummies. Gummies are widely popular because of their taste, pre-packaging, and dosage. Since edibles require digestion, it can take around 30 minutes before you start feeling the effects.
Before increasing your dosage, you should wait at least a couple of hours. Since metabolisms differ, 30 minutes is a general timeframe, but there are individuals who will feel the effects sooner. Other forms include:
- Vape
- Concentrates
- Cream
- Tinctures
Vaping delta 8 helps deliver a quicker “high” since it enters your bloodstream more readily. Creams and ointments are often used for topical relief, such as sore joints or muscles.
Tinctures can be used under the tongue and are more discreet than other THC products. You can also add drops to beverages, like your morning coffee.
How To Purchase Delta 8 Safely
Now that you can answer “is delta 8 safe?” it is time to dive into safe purchases. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
- Is the company registered with The Department of Agriculture?
- Does the company hold its Hemp Foods Permit?
- Do they operate in an FDA Registered Facility?
- Do they follow third-party lab testing?
- Are they cGMP Compliant?
- What are their online reviews?
Licensed companies, such as SW Distro, who meet or exceed the above bullet points will ensure that your products are manufactured safely and in a controlled lab setting. Additionally, hemp companies should have an FDA disclosure.
Since cannabis products are not FDA-approved, avoid companies that do not list a disclosure or state otherwise. Lastly, it helps to check out online reviews and see how other consumers rate products.
Start Shopping for Delta 8 Products
Is delta 8 safe? For many consumers, choosing high-quality products and starting at a low dosage results in few side effects. In fact, many consumers opt for delta 8 over delta 9 because of the fewer adverse effects while still getting a “high.”
At SW Distro, we are licensed hemp manufacturer of several nationally distributed brands. We follow strict guidelines and federal regulations, ensuring you have access to quality hemp products.
To get started, visit our delta 8 products page and start shopping today!
