What to know about Delta 8 and hemp

Recently, it’s become pretty clear that hemp has been making some waves in recent years, especially in connection with delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8 THC). But of course, whenever anything makes waves, there are always many questions that come up with it. This is totally understandable. When it comes to anything connected with cannabis, it's always wise to ask questions. We here at DharmaD8 are big believers in education, so we thought we would go over hemp and Delta-8 THC with you in order to make sure you know exactly what you’re getting. So, let’s get started!

What do Delta-8 THC and hemp have in common?

Let’s start with talking about how Delta-8 THC and hemp are connected. Of course, you can probably put together how they are connected if you are familiar with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta9-THC), the more commonly known variation of THC. But it's good to go over all of this anyway.

Hemp is a variation of the cannabis plant. There is one other main variation of cannabis that you’re likely already aware of. It’s marijuana. These two plants are really similar but have one big difference. Hemp has very little Delta9-THC, and marijuana has a lot of Delta9-THC. Of course, to fully understand what this difference means, we need to explain the differences between these two compounds.

Delta-8 THC and Delta9-THC are both cannabinoids, chemical compounds that are unique to  hemp plants. They have a pretty incredible ability. They are able to interact with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). This is a system of receptors that help your body with functions like memory and mood. Because cannabinoids interact with the ECS, they may affect these functions. Delta9-THC binds with the receptors tightly. This is how it causes the feelings of euphoria that are synonymous with THC in general. Delta8-THC binds in a similar way, but with a slight difference that we will talk about more in a little while.

Another thing that makes hemp stand out from marijuana is the fact that hemp is federally legal, as are its products. In 2018, the newest version of the Farm Bill was passed. This version of the bill included an amendment that federally legalized hemp and products made from hemp. This allowed individual states to make their own laws about hemp. This means that Delta8-THC is generally considered legal, for the most part. However, a handful of states still have ambiguity on whether they agree it is a legal compound. Again, while hemp is federally legal, it may not be considered legal in every state. However, most states in the US do agree that attributes of hemp are legal. On the other side of that coin, some states have made laws specifically singling out Delta-8 THC to be kept illegal. This all means that unless your state has laws stating otherwise, hemp and Delta-8 THC are likely legal in your state (though we recommend checking your local laws, just to be safe).

What could Delta 8 do?

We’ve talked an awful lot about hemp but haven’t really touched on Delta-8 THC too much yet. So, let’s talk about what Delta 8 may be able to do for you.

Create a feeling of euphoria

We hinted about this a bit in the earlier section, but now let’s really get into it. Delta8-THC will be able to give you a feeling of euphoria. The only difference is this feeling has a different effect than you may expect from Delta-9-THC. This is due to the fact that Delta 8 and Delta9-THC are very similar in structure; they just have one small difference in how they’re built. It doesn’t really change the shape, so they appear exactly the same at first glance. But this difference in structure means that Delta 8 THC doesn’t bind with the ECS receptors as tightly as Delta9-THC does. So, the euphoric feeling that Delta 8 causes a different experience than the one you would get from Delta9-THC. If you are new to THC, this could be a perfect introduction.

Help with anxiety

If you’ve heard anything about THC in general, you’ve probably heard stories about people getting paranoid while on it and having some not-so-pleasant experiences. Though not entirely accurate, those stereotypes may perpetuate the idea of any THC wouldn't be able to help with anxiety. It feels a little out of the left field. But there has been a fair amount of evidence point to this idea. For example, Delta 8 THC has been classified as an anxiolytic by the National Institutions of Health (NIH). This is a title it wouldn’t have earned without some evidence backing it up. 

Help ease pain and inflammation

This is an idea that is probably pretty familiar. It has been thrown around with some regularity. Could THC help with pain and inflammation? However, when people talk about this, they are usually talking about Delta9-THC. But there has been a fair amount of research suggesting that Delta8-THC could be helpful in this area as well. For example, this study found that Delta8-THC was able to help reduce inflammation and pain in the corneas of mice. 

Their more famous sibling (D9-THC) often overshadow hemp and Delta8-THC. While lesser-known, that doesn't mean that they don't have a lot to offer us, far from it. There is so much that hemp and Delta8-THC could be able to do for you. Many of these things are very similar to what marijuana and Delta9-THC could do. But hemp and Delta8-THC have one advantage that the others struggle with. Hemp and its products are much more likely to be legal where you live than marijuana and its products. Isn’t that a great way to make this much less complicated for yourself?

If you’re ready to give some Delta8-THC a try, check out our products at DharmaD8. You can explore all we have to offer from our shop page here. We have a wide range of D8 products for you to try, so you can find the perfect one for you in no time. If you are curious, then check out Delta 8 CBD.