At this stage, you’ve probably heard of Delta 8. There’s been a lot of noise about the Delta 8 THC variant but if you’re here, you might have a few more questions about what it really is and how it works.
This guide will give you a primer into the Who, What’s, Where, and Why’s concerning all things Delta 8 – and of course, if you have any more questions, the team here at ATL Dispensary is always ready to help!
What is Delta 8?
Delta 8 THC (or Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol to give its full name) is a naturally occurring chemical called a ‘cannabinoid’ that’s found in small traces in the cannabis plant. Though like Delta-9 THC (the compound that produces the effect of feeling high usually associated with marijuana) Delta 8 has a slightly different chemical structure that makes it a lot less potent. Essentially it produces many of the same sensations but to a much milder effect.
Looking for some of that THC feeling but without the potentially unwelcomed benefits of your usual high? Delta 8 could be for you.
Does Delta 8 get you high?
The long and the short of it is YES – Delta 8 will get you high. Both Delta 8 and Delta 9 produce the euphoric, fuzzy feeling associated with a normal high, but the overall experience is milder and will, in theory, last for a shorter amount of time.
While there have been well-documented impacts of the ‘negative’ effects of THC – paranoia, anxiety, and drowsiness to name a few – Delta 8 is generally thought to have a less potent (and potentially less harmful) effect which has led to some describing it as ‘diet weed’.
Everybody’s reaction is to some extent different, so you should still be mindful of your own reaction or tolerance – but at a pinch, it’s fair to say Delta 8 is the less intense cousin of your normal THC. For many, this more relaxed high is more enjoyable and less all-consuming, hence the growing rise in popularity of Delta 8 products.
Is Delta 8 safe?
As mentioned above, Delta 8 is generally seen as the less intense version of Delta 9, and from that perspective can be considered safe to most users. While some of the side effects will be like those you experience with any other cannabinoid – in most cases, this will be at a scaled-down level.
If you have never experienced the effects of THC, it’s worth taking a sensible amount of precaution – don’t overdo it, to begin with, try a small amount and see how you feel before you start to experiment with larger or more frequent doses.
How long does Delta 8 take to kick in?
As with most cannabinoid edibles – the effects can take a little longer to kick in when you’re taking it in a gummy or oil form (two of the most popular forms to consume Delta 8 in). Most users will likely start to feel some sort of effect after 30 minutes or so, but this is not a golden rule – it can even take a few hours before you really start to hit a peak. Delta 8 THC tends to avoid the ‘creeping’ sensation that can catch you unaware with the sudden high sometimes associated with its more potent cousins – so expect a more gradual onset of effects when consuming Delta 8 products.
Delta 8 Oils (Tinctures) vs. Delta 8 Edibles
The two most common variants of Delta 8 products are Oils (also known as Tinctures) and Edibles. While both are consumed orally, tinctures are meant to be dropped under the tongue for the fastest effect but can also be added to food for a more traditional ‘edible’ experience.
While ultimately the effect of Delta 8 Oils and Edibles are similar, new users may see some advantages in oil in that you have a little bit more control over your dosage. Edibles tend to come in a pre-portioned dose, and while you can eat half a gummy, it can be a little more difficult to change your dose incrementally if that’s what you’re after.
Ultimately it tends to come down to a matter of personal preference for which path will be best for you – but if you’re looking to talk to someone about anything Delta 8 – don’t hesitate to drop in and give us a call or email – we’re more than happy to talk shop with you about any of our products.
You can shop and browse our range of Delta 8 products at the ATL Dispensary site.
