Delta 8 THC is one of the 100+ cannabinoids in cannabis. Processors extract and concentrate it since it only exists naturally in small percentages within the cannabis flower. Like other cannabinoids, it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system – specifically the CB1 receptor of the nervous system.

Delta-8-THC is distinct from the THC that is often mentioned in conversation about cannabis. What we refer to as THC usually means delta-9-THC, the main form of THC found in cannabis. Delta-8-THC is an analog of delta-9-THC, a molecule with a similar structure, but some notable differences. While the two share many similar properties, such as reportedly stimulating appetite, reducing nausea, and soothing pain, delta-8-THC tends to exhibit a lower psychotropic potency than delta-9-THC. 

Here’s the most important thing to know about Delta 8-THC: it appears to provide similar benefits to its well-known partner, Delta 9-THC, but with less intense side effects.

In other words, Delta-8 THC could help you enjoy the benefits of ordinary THC (like the feeling of being high) without the unwanted side effects (like paranoia and anxiety) caused by getting too high.

Like Delta 9-THC, Delta-8 THC binds to CB1 receptors. Unlike Delta 9-THC, however, Delta 8-THC is more stable and less potent. It has a lower affinity for CB1 receptors, which could be the reason for the lessened effect.

Why haven’t you heard of Delta 8-THC before?

Well, there’s relatively little Delta 8-THC in the cannabis plant. It’s not as common as Delta 9-THC, and it cannot be naturally found in large quantities in the plant. You must extract it from the plant or synthesize it.

As more studies get released, we’re learning more about Delta 8-THC and how it works.

In this report published through MedGen, researchers described Delta 8-THC as “an analogue of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) with antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties.”

In non-medical terms, researchers linked Delta 8-THC to anti-nausea (antiemetic), anti-anxiety (anxiolytic), and pain relief (analgesic) benefits, among other effects. Delta 8-THC could stimulate your appetite. It could also protect brain cells thanks to its neuroprotective effects.

Researchers also found that Delta 8-THC “exhibits a lower psychotropic potency” than Delta 9-THC. It still gets you high, but you don’t get as high as you normally would taking the same amount of THC.

Early Delta 8-THC products on the market today are praised for their ability to deliver CBD-like benefits and a different type of “high” than ordinary THC.

Many users claim Delta 8-THC gives them a more clear-headed high, for example. Because Delta 8-THC is a form of THC, it still gets you high – but many people claim they don’t feel out of control. Some claim to feel energized and motivated after taking Delta 8-THC – not lethargic.

*The most notable benefits linked to Delta 8-THC include:

• Stimulate appetite
• Help with pain and inflammation
• Eliminate nausea in cancer patients
• Enjoy a clearer-headed high compared to ordinary THC
• Enjoy CBD-like benefits in terms of anxiety, pain, and inflammation
• Could work topically (applied to the skin) or orally