Delta-8 THC is one of the latest stars in the cannabis industry. But what exactly is it, and how does it affect you? Does delta-8 tincture get you high like delta-9 THC, or does it have more subtle effects like CBD? In this article, we’ll answer these questions and more by exploring the nature, benefits, and risks of delta-8 tincture.
What is Delta-8 Tincture?
Delta-8 tincture is a liquid extract that contains delta-8 THC, a type of THC found in small amounts in the cannabis plant. Delta-8 is similar to delta-9 THC, the main psychoactive compound in marijuana, but with some key differences.
Delta-8 THC has a slightly different molecular structure that makes it less potent and less likely to cause anxiety or paranoia. It also interacts with different cannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system than delta-9 THC molecules. This produces a more balanced and relaxing high.
What Is It Used For?
Delta-8 tincture can be used for various purposes including pain relief, appetite stimulation, and weight loss. Some users report feeling more focused, creative, and energetic after taking delta-8 tincture, while others simply use it to relax or relieve stress.
It’s worth noting that delta-8 tincture is not without risks. It can still cause intoxication, impairment, or other side effects at higher dose ranges. It can also interact with other medications and substances, so it’s important to consult your doctor before using it.
How Is Delta-8 Tincture Made?
Delta-8 tincture can be made from delta-8 THC distillate, which is a thick and concentrated form of delta-8 THC that is extracted from cannabis plants. The distillate is then mixed with carrier oil, such as MCT oil, hemp seed oil, or vegetable glycerin, to create a tincture that can be easily measured and consumed.
Some delta-8 tinctures can contain other ingredients, such as vitamin E, other cannabinoids, and terpenes. Food-grade ethanol is commonly used to enhance the effects, taste, or shelf life of the product.
Delta-8 can be compared to cannabidiol (CBD), which is another popular extract from raw cannabis. CBD is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that has many health benefits. However, delta-8 tincture does have some psychoactive effects, which some users may prefer for recreational or therapeutic purposes.
Is It The Fastest Acting Form of Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC is also available in the form of gummies, edibles, vape cartridges, or flowers. These products vary in their potency, onset time, duration of effects, and method of consumption.
Delta-8 tincture is one of the most versatile and convenient ways to use delta-8 THC, as it can be taken sublingually (under the tongue), orally (swallowed), or topically (applied directly to skin).
Delta-8 tincture has a faster onset time than edibles or gummies, but a slower onset time than vaping or smoking. Delta-8 tincture also has a longer duration of effects than vaping or smoking, but a shorter duration of effects than edibles or gummies.
What Are Some Medical Benefits of Delta-8?
Delta-8 tincture can have various effects on the body and mind, depending on the dose, the individual, and the method of consumption. Generally, delta-8 tincture can produce a mild psychoactive effect that’s less intense and more enjoyable than delta-9 THC.
Delta-8 tincture may also have some therapeutic benefits, such as pain relief, appetite stimulation, and neuroprotection.
A Scientific Perspective
The effects of delta-8 tincture are influenced by how it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a network of receptors and molecules that regulate various bodily functions and responses.
Delta-8 THC binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS, but with a lower affinity than delta-9 THC. This means that delta-8 THC can activate these receptors without over-stimulating them, resulting in a more balanced and relaxing high.
Some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that delta-8 THC can have positive effects on various physiological conditions, such as chronic pain, inflammation, nausea, and vomiting. It’s also being explored for its potential in treating symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Can You Get High From Delta-8?
The effects of delta-8 tincture can vary depending on the dose and the individual. Generally, low doses can have stimulating and uplifting effects, while high doses can have sedating and calming effects.
The optimal dose of delta-8 tincture may differ from person to person, depending on factors such as body weight, metabolism, tolerance, and sensitivity. It’s advisable to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until the desired effects are achieved.
The effects of delta-8 tincture can also differ depending on the method of consumption. Taking delta-8 tincture sublingually (under the tongue) can have a faster onset time (15-30 minutes) and a shorter duration of effects (2-4 hours) than taking it orally (swallowed).
Taking delta-8 tincture orally can have a slower onset time (30-90 minutes) and longer effects (4-6 hours) than taking it sublingually. This is because oral consumption involves passing through the digestive system and the liver before reaching the bloodstream, which can alter the potency and availability of delta-8 THC.
Is Delta-8 Considered a Controlled Substance Like THC?
Delta-8 tincture has a complicated and unclear legal status in different states and countries. Although it’s derived from hemp, which is federally legal in the US under the 2018 Farm Bill, delta-8 THC is still considered a Schedule I controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Some states have their own laws and regulations regarding THC products, which may differ from the federal law. Some states have banned or restricted delta-8 THC products due to their psychoactive properties, while others have allowed or regulated them under certain conditions.
Is It Legal?
The legal status of delta-8 tincture is a complex and evolving issue requiring consumers and producers’ caution and awareness. Finding and buying delta-8 tincture from reputable and transparent sources that provide lab-tested and quality-assured products is essential. It is also vital to follow the dosage guidelines and safety precautions when using delta-8 tincture, as it can still cause intoxication, impairment, and side effects.
Conclusion
Delta-8 THC is most commonly extracted from hemp plants, and has a slightly different molecular structure than delta-9, making it less likely to cause a high, or spells anxiety or paranoia.
Delta-8 tincture can have various effects on the body and mind, depending on the dose, the individual, and the method of consumption. It has also been shown to have some therapeutic benefits, although more research is required to establish its viability for medical or therapeutic applications.
Delta-8 tincture is a novel and versatile way to consume delta-8 THC, which is a minor cannabinoid with unique effects and benefits. However, the use of delta-8 tincture is not without risks, as it can still cause intoxication or other side effects. It also has a questionable legal status as of this writing and is largely unregulated within the cannabis market.
Finding and buying delta-8 tinctures from reputable and transparent sources that provide lab-tested and quality-assured products is important. For the best possible experience, following dosage guidelines and safety precautions when using delta-8 products is vital.
