Recently, the popularity of Delta-8 THC products from Exhalewell has been surging. The novel chemical is presented as a milder alternative to Delta-9 THC, and it is being marketed even where marijuana is banned.The novel chemical is presented as a milder alternative to Delta-9 THC, and it is being marketed even where marijuana is banned. The compound is technically legal, although some local governments oppose its distribution. So, is Delta-8 superior to cannabis, and what are the disadvantages?
In response to skeptics, suppliers argue that most of the chemical is based on CBD found in hemp, which is a legalized form of cannabis. Despite the absence of hard statistics, it is clear that the sales of Delta-8 flower are on the rise. The chemical is now being added to gummies and vapes. Over the past 12 months, it has shown faster growth than any other segment in the hemp chemical market.
Advantages of the New Chemical
The lower potency of Delta-8 can be a benefit or a drawback depending on your needs. It is more uplifting than cannabis and does not have the side effects of Delta-9. Here are the three biggest advantages.
1. High-Quality High
Delta-9 produces strong cloudy feelings. It binds with the CB1 receptors responsible for psychoactivity. The same binding happens with Delta-8, but it is coupled with binding to the CB2 receptors. The latter are responsible for soothing the deep muscle tissue and do not affect the degree of high. As a result, the experience of consuming Delta-8 is more active and uplifting. You feel more energized and alert, as your energy levels surge.
2. Great for Social Use
Cannabis is not ideal for social gatherings and outdoor activities. It is known for making users lethargic. After a high dose of Delta-9, socializing is a challenge. On the other hand, Delta-8 does not have such limitations. It is ideal for social use.
3. Lack of Comedown
Delta-8 does not cause any unwanted side effects. Users of cannabis often experience strong anxiety or paranoia if they take high doses of Delta-9. When the high is coming to an end, they may experience a crash that drains their energy.
Based on available user reports, it is reasonable to suggest that the new chemical does not have the same aftermath. Its potency is low, so there are no overwhelming feelings. The end of the high is smoother than with Delta-9. If you were to describe the effects on a line graph, you would get a curve that flattens at the beginning and end of the high.
The Downsides of Delta-8
Delta-8 has impressive benefits, but it is still outshone by cannabis in certain areas. Some people do not appreciate the low potency, as they smoke to get out of their head. If you want to achieve that cloudy buzz that makes you unable to do anything, you may be disappointed by the psychoactivity of the new chemical. It can still produce the same effects but at a higher dosage. Undoubtedly, it is not as strong as Delta-9.
In addition, there is a lack of the Delta-8 flower. Many users prefer it to oils and edibles. While Delta-8 is found in hemp and cannabis, its amount is much lower. A premium delta 8 flower is a rare find.
Is Delta-8 Legal?
Under the Farm Bill, which was signed by President Trump in 2018, Delta 8 is legal. The regulation allows programs to study hemp and hemp-derived products. At the same time, it outlines violations of the federal hemp law, such as unlicensed cultivation or production of cannabis containing over 0.3% of delta-9 THC.
The bill did not explicitly mention Delta 8, which was interpreted as a green light by the industry and some officials. In 2020, the Legislative Council of Wisconsin concluded that these products may be classified as hemp if they are below the Delta-9 threshold. However, this did not constitute legal advice.
A few local governments have been skeptical about the product to the point of banning it. In Kentucky and Vermont, hemp growers have been warned that selling Delta-8 may entail criminal prosecution. In some other states, this is a gray legal area. At the same time, Delta-8 does not fit the definition of marijuana under the Controlled Substance Act, which is why it is distributed across the country.