Is Delta-8 Safe? What You Need To Know

As Delta-8 THC continues to grow in popularity, many are wondering what it is, how it works, and whether it’s as safe to use as other forms of THC. Here’s a quick guide to Delta-8 THC — including everything to know about the consumption and effects of the cannabinoid you’re seeing everywhere.

What Is Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8 THC) is one of the dozens of cannabinoids found in the cannabis sativa plant.

Cannabis plants are home to more than 100 cannabinoids, including everything from the lesser-known HHC and THCp to the highly popular cannabidiol (CBD) and Delta-9 THC — the cannabinoid associated with typical weed or marijuana.

Delta-8 THC is a close relative of Delta-9 THC, and the two are often confused. Here’s a simple breakdown of the differences between these two compounds found in the cannabis plant.

Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC

Delta-8 and Delta-9 are chemical cousins. They have nearly identical chemical structures, and unlike the non-psychoactive cannabinoid CBD, they’re both psychoactive substances with intoxicating effects.

The only differences? Delta-8 THC’s double bond is located on the eighth carbon atom in its molecular structure, and Delta-9 THC’s is located on the ninth.

Delta-8 is also known to bind less strongly to the brain’s cannabinoid receptors than Delta-9, which is what gives it a milder, less potent high. Because of its lighter effects, Delta-8 THC is often called “diet weed” when compared with traditional recreational marijuana.

Is Delta-8 THC Legal?

Delta-8 THC is legal courtesy of the 2018 Farm Bill. This bill removed hemp from the list of controlled substances, resulting in the federal legalization of all hemp products.

Hemp is defined as any cannabis product containing no more than 0.3% percent Delta-9 THC by dry weight. So any products that contain only Delta-8 are legal, as are any Delta-8 products that contain any amount of Delta-9 THC under the legal limit.

While you’ll often hear people refer to the Farm Bill as a “legal loophole,” there’s really no ambiguity. When the Farm Bill was enacted by Congress, Delta-8 and other forms of hemp became federally legal.

It is worth noting that when it comes to questions of public health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has yet to approve Delta-8 THC for healthcare or medical uses.

How Do You Consume Delta-8 THC?

Now you know what Delta-8 THC is and its current legal status. But how do you consume it — and are the products significantly different from other forms of THC?

While you may find a little bit less variety in the Delta-8 product market compared to other cannabis products, that’s only because it’s still relatively new compared to the classic weed market. But there are still plenty of product categories to explore. Here are some popular forms of Delta-8 THC products and how to consume them:

Delta-8 THC Edibles

From Delta-8 gummies and candies to Delta-8 tinctures and syrups, edibles are one of the most popular ways to consume Delta-8, especially for cannabis users who want to avoid smoking or inhalation.

They come in a ton of different forms and flavors, so you can find the products that suit your taste. Just remember to pay attention to the different cannabinoids on the product label and start slow with a low dose.

Delta-8 THC Vapes

For those who prefer THC vape cartridges to edibles, Delta-8 vapes are another popular choice. Vapes are sleek, discreet, and easy to throw in your bag or pocket.

They’ll also typically hit faster than edibles, so they’re great if you want a cannabis boost right away. Whatever vape you choose, it’s always best to start with a small puff and wait a little bit to see how you feel.

Delta-8 THC Concentrates

For those who want to consume Delta-8 in its most potent form, concentrates are the way to go. Carefully crafted products like Delta-8 THC Moonrocks can offer unique and powerful cannabis experiences for more seasoned users.

Concentrates like this are typically best consumed by adding them to your favorite smokable flower in a joint, bowl, or bong.

What Are the Effects of Delta-8 THC?

The effects of Delta-8 are known to be similar to those of Delta-9 THC, just a bit more subdued. Users will typically feel relaxed and uplifted and can enjoy the head and body high associated with classic weed.

Though the effects of Delta-8 are generally milder, it’s still important to pay attention to the concentration and dosage of Delta-8 in any product or medicine you consume and the dosage of other cannabinoids in the product.

What Are The Risks of Delta-8 THC?

Cannabis research on Delta-8 THC is still relatively new, but some of the main concerns with Delta-8 are the risk that products from specific sources can contain byproducts, contaminants, and even mold or heavy metals that may lead to health risks or adverse events.

To avoid encountering products like this, it’s important to pay close attention to the product labeling on any Delta-8 you want to purchase and ensure you’re buying it from a legal, high-quality, and trusted source.

In terms of the typical potential side effects of THC, like feeling restless and unsettled, Delta-8 is usually less likely to overwhelm the user since its effects are less potent. Because of this, some people prefer Delta-8 and view it as a more pleasant and less risky experience with the cannabis plant.

FAQs About Delta-8 Safety

Q: How old do you have to be to buy Delta-8?

A: The federal minimum age requirement for Delta-8 THC is 21. Sorry, young people reading this; wait a few years.

Q: How does regular cannabis use affect you?

A: Everyone responds differently to using Delta-8 and other cannabinoids regularly. However, research tells us that your tolerance for THC can go up over time after regular use. This may mean that you need more THC to experience the same effects.

To compensate for increasing cannabis tolerance, consider taking a "T-break," which means stepping away from all psychoactive cannabis products for at least two weeks.

Q: What do good Delta-8 products look like?

A: The labels on products including Delta-8 should give you plenty of information about their contents and their quality. In addition, Delta-8 products should come with a certificate of analysis (COA) verifying that they've been tested for consistency and safety.

You can learn more about Mood's third-party hemp testing and COA practices from our blog.

Where Can I Find High-Quality Delta-8 THC?

Between how popular Delta-8 cannabis products have become and the cannabinoid's federally legal status, you can find it at many different places — from gas stations to convenience stores and, of course, your typical smoke shops.

We recommend purchasing Delta-8 cannabis products from a reliable dispensary rather than your local gas station to ensure safe cannabis use. The good news? You may not even need to find one in your area.

Mood is a high-quality, regulated, 100% legal online THC dispensary that delivers Delta-8, Delta-9, and CBD products to your doorstep.