Delta-8 is a compound derived from cannabis that’s grown in popularity, largely because its effects resemble that of delta-9.
And if you’re not familiar, delta-9 THC is the compound in marijuana that’s chiefly responsible for triggering the rush of euphoria, a sense of calm, and sleepy, intoxicating effects known as a “high.” While marijuana is known to contain high volumes of delta-9 THC, hemp contains very little. However, hemp contains cannabinoids that can be converted into delta-8, making it highly accessible (more on this later).
Why People Love Delta-8
Before we get into the reasons people purchase delta-8 THC, it’s important to understand that the FDA has not evaluated these uses. There is currently not enough conclusive evidence to claim delta-8 as a therapeutic substance.
That being said, delta-8 has been shown to bind to the CB1 receptors in the ECS, which has an overall effect on homeostasis, as explained by the National Cancer Institute.
Delta-8 may additionally offer some neuroprotective properties, which could be beneficial for the brain. Some studies such as this one have indicated that delta-8 helps encourage the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which plays a major role in neuroplasticity, memory, and cognition.
On top of that, delta-8 may also have a stimulating effect on appetite. For instance, in one 2004 study on delta-8’s influence on appetite, the researchers concluded at the end of the trial that delta-8 could increase food intake, even when taken at low doses.
And thanks to its antiemetic effects, delta-8 presents little to no nausea as a side effect, as demonstrated in this 1995 study.
Delta-8 vs CBD
In order to better understand what delta-8 is, it helps to know what it isn’t. So let’s talk about the differences between delta-8 and CBD, starting with the ways in which they interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The ECS is a series of receptors, cells, and enzymes that are found throughout the body, and they work together to keep the body in homeostasis through functions such as inflammation, stress, sleep, appetite, immunity, and much more.
Delta 8 THC has a direct interaction with the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which regulate everything from immune function to mood. CBD, meanwhile, only appears to have an affinity with CB2 receptors and not CB1 receptors.
Consequently, delta-8 can get users high, while CBD doesn’t. Instead, CBD regulates ECS activity by amplifying the signaling while delaying the breakdown of natural cannabinoids in the body.
There are also some major distinctions between CBD and delta-8 when it comes to drug tests.
It’s important to note that while delta-8 does have the potential to give users a false positive, you shouldn’t have to worry about it with CBD, granted that the product you’re consuming contains no more than 0.3% THC. In fact, according to health experts, a user would need to take around 2,000 mg of full-spectrum hemp daily in order to get a false-positive result for THC on a drug test, which is 40 times the standard dose of CBD for most individuals.
Delta-8 vs Delta-9
When examining the commonalities between delta-8 and delta-9, you’ll already get some information from their names: delta-9 THC is, in essence, the cannabinoid we know from marijuana, and it’s chiefly responsible for creating the high that marijuana is known for. Delta-8, meanwhile, can create effects that are similar to those of delta-9, but to a lesser extent.
At this time, the legal status for delta-8 is nebulous, and this has much to do with the fact that it can be taken from either cannabis or industrial hemp. And as per the 2018 farm bill, products of hemp can be legally produced and used for extractions all over the United States, so long as they’re hemp-derived and contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. Because of this loophole, delta-8 is now legal in some states where delta-9 might not be.
Residents of THC-banned states who crave cannabis products now have the option to seek delta-8 products since they may be legal in their state, and several hemp-based extractors are ramping up delta-8 production to meet this new demand and shipping it all over the U.S.
And similar to delta-9, delta-8 binds to the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is what causes users to feel high. And on a chemical level, delta-8 and delta-9 resemble each other in that both structures possess a double bond, which is widely thought to produce the intoxicating effects that are known for making users feel high.
However, the placement of the double bond is what really distinguishes the two cannabinoids from each other: while both cannabinoids possess this chain of carbon atoms, delta-8 has the double bond on the eighth carbon, while delta-9 has it on the ninth carbon.
The way in which delta-8 attaches to the endocannabinoid system is somewhat different because of the location of its double bond, and this is what some experts believe is what makes delta-8 significantly less potent compared to regular THC. With that being said, more research on delta-8 and how it interacts with the body is needed.
Does Delta-8 Get You High?
As we understand, there are still some individuals who are still unsure whether or not Delta 8 gets you high.
And we’re here to clarify that delta-8 THC does, in fact, get you high. It’s worth noting, however, that the high is notably milder than that of delta-9, and it’s garnered a reputation for leaving folks on the drowsy side rather than euphoric and borderline-manic like so many cannabis products are wont to do.
And because delta-8 undergoes the same metabolic change as delta-9 THC under heat exposure, they are, for all intents and purposes, the same, with the exception that delta-8 THC doesn’t get you as high.
How Does Delta-8 Make Me Feel?
While delta-8 is known to produce a rush of euphoria and a mild sense of intoxication, better known as a “high,” it’s not necessarily going to be the sort of high you might expect from delta-9. Typically, though, most consumers report that delta-8 carts left them feeling relaxed and at ease, sometimes accompanied by feelings of mild drowsiness.
When taken in a form that is non-smokable, such as in unprocessed cannabis, delta-8 is typically found bonded to a sugar molecule, making it a glucoside. In cases such as these, the sugar molecule must be removed from the delta-8 in order to make it usable.
This can be done in a number of ways, the first one being a process known as decarboxylation.
Decarboxylation is essentially what happens when someone smokes cannabis flower–when extreme heat is applied to the plant matter, a chemical reaction is triggered, which removes the carboxylic acid (COOH) group from each cannabinoid, converting delta-8 into delta-9.
Usually, though, the delta-8 used in products is converted in a lab, where combustion is left out of the process. But if you’re looking for a method of delta-8 that’s inhalable and fast-acting, delta-8 vape carts provide just that, without the burnt plant matter.
What Are Delta-8 Carts?
Delta-8 vape cartridges, often referred to as delta-8 carts, are among the most sophisticated ways to inhale delta-8, or any cannabinoid, for that matter. With new developments in technology every day, even our methods of relaxation and intoxication have gotten easier.
Gone are the days of coughing over smoke and struggling with the lighter to smoke cannabis. Instead, try the high that’s streamlined and discrete, perfect for any time of day, anywhere you go. Our delta-8 cartridges attach easily to any standard 510 thread battery and come in a trio of out-of-this-world flavors: Bubble Gum Galaxy, Space Walker, and Solar Flare Lemonade.
So why try delta-8 vapes?
For starters, delta-8 vapes do away with the need for combustion. While marijuana is often smoked in order to make it bioavailable, delta-8 actually has an incredibly low boiling point. This means that when high-heat methods such as smoking are applied to delta-8, most of it is destroyed in the process.
Vaping delta-8 carts, on the other hand, apply a steady, controlled temperature–just enough to turn the delta-8 vape juice into a vapor. This completely eliminates the need for combustion, so consumers can enjoy fast-acting effects without inhaling burnt plant matter.
Additionally, the process of vaping delta-8 simplifies the delivery process, which speeds up the experience overall, including the high and the entourage effect.
Delta-8 vape carts are also popular because of the mild effects they tend to produce, especially compared to marijuana. While delta-8 creates a euphoric effect, it’s far less overwhelming and easier to manage.
And while it’s true that gummies take the cake when it comes to flavor, some users might be surprised by the tasty strains they can enjoy with delta-8 carts. And best of all, no calories!
Of course, delta-8 vape carts are also beloved for their convenience since they’re always ready to go. And while it’s true that you’ll need to make sure your battery is charged, no other preparation is necessary!
Delta-8 vape carts are also becoming popular because, well, they just hit right.
More and more individuals are giving up smoking, whether it’s for personal or health reasons, but the experience is hard to replace. Delta-8 vapes offer a milder, gentler high, but they also help satisfy that urge to smoke something, minus the smoke.
And while disposables offer plenty of their own advantages, delta-8 carts offer just as much freedom of choice with the strain or flavor you choose, and you’ll never have to worry about committing to a flavor.
For instance, you might be enjoying some Bubble Gum Galaxy for one month, but maybe you want to be a little spontaneous and shake things up with some Space Walker.
With delta-8 cartridges, the true beauty is that there’s no need to wait for a great flavor experience! And while you’d need to go through a whole disposable in order to try something new, all you need to do with carts is swap them out on your battery! To do so, simply unscrew the current cart, store it, and replace it with the new one.
Now, let’s be honest: the price is always going to matter, even when you’re choosing the best delta-8 product for your needs. And if you’re looking for something that’s both fast-effecting and affordable, delta-8 carts make the perfect option.
How Do Delta-8 Carts Work?
Even if you’re a beginner, delta-8 is easy to vape. To do so, you only need two things: your battery or rig and your cartridge.
Once your setup is ready, you can get started whenever you like. Vaping a delta-8 cartridge is much cleaner than smoking cannabis, and no lighters are needed. Once your battery is fully charged, simply press the button five times, and watch it flash, indicating it’s on. Hold down the button while you inhale from the mouthpiece, and press five times again to power off.
Delta-8 Cartridges vs Delta-8 Disposables
While we talk about delta-8 cartridges, it’s worth it to stop to mention delta-8 disposables.
Delta-8 disposables are a single-use form of vape that comes pre-filled, pre-charged, and ready to use.
Delta-8 carts and delta-8 disposables offer a number of different benefits; for instance, delta-8 disposables are incredibly easy to use: simply put it in your mouth and inhale to draw. No need to switch out cartridges, no recharging.
Delta-8 disposables are also going to cost less than a refillable delta 8 cartridge, making them especially appealing to beginners. It’s worth noting, though, that delta-8 disposables might start to run up the cost, and it may save you more money in the long run to invest in a battery and carts.
Whether you choose delta 8 carts or delta 8 disposables will ultimately depend on your preference, and how you plan to enjoy your delta 8 vape.
For instance, beginners in delta 8 with a limited budget may want to stick with disposables since they’re going to offer the best entry-level price point, as well as the benefit of discretion and convenience. After all, no charging necessary!
On the other hand, if you’ve made your way around vapes a bit at this point, and you’re looking for something more appropriate for long-term use, a delta 8 vape cart is still going to offer the discretion and convenience, while also offering more control and freedom of choice.
Whichever type of delta 8 vape you decide to use, get ready for the high that hits both quickly and gently. Delta 8 vapes are the best way to get your delta-8 quickly and effectively.
Where Can I Get Delta-8 Vapes?
With the word of delta-8 spreading, customers will find that it’s easier than ever to find, especially online. It’s important to note, though, that the quality for online retailers is not always consistent. Wherever you shop, make sure to do so with a brand that meets all of the quality standards, especially when it comes to ingredients and materials.
If you’re looking for top-notch delta-8 vapes, check out our own delta-8 carts, which are 100% compliant with Farm Bill standards, and only made with high-quality hemp grown in the U.S.
What is the Best Delta-8 Cartridge?
Delta 8 carts are easily among the most popular products designed to deliver delta-8 into the body, and for a good reason: they’re simple, effective, and surprisingly convenient, and like delta-9 vapes, they can get users high and quickly, albeit with less fogginess and fewer side effects.
And with their growing demand, they’re becoming increasingly easy to find. But of course, users want to find the best cartridge that suits their needs.
Here are some pro tips to help consumers shop delta-8 carts with confidence:
- Stick with reputable brands that hold solid reputations
- Only shop from brands that practice third-party testing and offer lab reports for each batch
- Check for clear labeling on products
- Steer clear of pesticides, fillers, etc.
- Note that different terpenes may provide slightly different effects
- Keep an eye out for additional cannabinoids like CBD, CBC, CBG, etc.
Are Delta-8 Carts Legal?
Since the FDA’s non-binding guidance on e-cigarettes in 2020, some individuals have expressed concern about how these new laws will affect delta-8 cartridges.
Specifically, this guidance defines e-cigarettes as a law enforcement priority, largely due to the growing usage by minors. However, this guidance is widely interpreted to affect tobacco and nicotine e-cigarettes, and since delta-8 vapes are free of nicotine, sellers and manufacturers have inferred that they’re not directly affected by this law.
So at this time, delta-8 vapes are legal in most states, but laws around delta-8 can have some nuances with each state, so it’s always a good idea to double check your state’s laws before purchasing any.
Are Delta-8 Carts Safe?
If you’ve ever tried your hand with any kind of THC cartridge, you may already have an idea of what to expect when it comes to delta-8 carts.
But if your only experience in vaping cannabinoids is CBD, get ready for something a little different. That being said, keep in mind that while delta-8 is less intense than delta-9, it’s still an isomer of THC.
With delta-8 carts, it’s always encouraged to start slow, with just one puff at a time. Additionally, try to do so in an environment where you feel at ease and not in a space where you feel the pressure to work or be productive.
When starting out with your delta-8 carts, make sure to keep the puffs small and gradually increase as needed.
It’s also worth noting that delta eight vapes might make users cough, especially after a particularly big puff; this also applies to those who might have some experience with THC. No matter your tolerance, keeping the puffs on the smaller side is always recommended when starting out since no one truly knows how delta-8 affects them until they try it.
And when it comes to ingredients, steer clear of delta-8 carts made with vitamin E acetate.
Vitamin E acetate is sometimes added to vapes to dilute juices, and it’s typically used to make production cheaper while enhancing the liquid’s appearance. However, it’s been identified as a potentially dangerous ingredient in delta-8 vapes, because it can severely interfere with your lungs’ ability to exchange carbon dioxide with oxygen.
Aside from vitamin E acetate, some individuals may do better with vapes free of PG.
PG, also known as propylene glycol, is a common ingredient in several food and drugs including inhalants, powdered beverage mixes, and even toothpaste.
Generally speaking, PG is a safe substance, though a percentage of the population is allergic to it. Luckily, there are PG-free blends available, which only contain VG (vegetable glycerin).
Individuals must also make sure that their vapes are made with quality metals, such as titanium, stainless steel, and the alloy known as kanthal.
Conversely, avoid vape pens made with chromium, nickel, manganese, and tin.
As for side effects, the following are common with all delta-8 products:
- drowsiness
- anxiety
- fatigue
- dry mouth
- paranoia
- nausea
- reduced appetite
Kristina Shafarenko is a relationship and health and wellness psychologist and a part-time freelance lifestyle writer covering health and fitness, sex, sexual wellness, and relationships. When she’s not writing, you can find her planning her next getaway, taste-testing every coffee spot in sight, and lounging at home with her cat, Buddy.
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