There is growing interest in the use of Delta-8 THC products owing to information available about its reported analgesic and antiemetic effects derived from using the same. When compared to other THC options, Delta 8 may comparatively have fewer or milder effects than its isomer, Delta-9 THC.
Delta-8 THC flowers have the same action on the endocannabinoid system and CB1 receptors in the brain. These receptors are responsible for the majority of the physiological processes in the body, including pain and sensations associated with mood and appetite. These effects are the subject of ongoing research-based studies.
Delta-8 THC flowers may be used to alleviate a host of issues, including the reduction of pain and nausea. Read more to find out more about Delta 8 THC flower, its uses, and potential effects.
What is Delta 8 THC Flower?
I’ll delve into the definition of THC flowers and how they are converted into Delta-8 compounds. These buds of the cannabis plant contain terpenes and cannabinoids. THC flowers propagated from the female cannabis plant are nipped and dried in the flowering stage. Expertise is needed in determining the correct stages of harvest.
Because the cannabis plant does not typically contain Delta-8, the cannabis or CBD flowers have to be sprayed with Delta-8 distillates for them to be technically called Delta-8 THC flowers. This conversion process involves the spraying of Delta-8 THC and then waiting for the flowers to dry for at least six hours.
Delta-8 distillates and flowers are available for purchase in bulk and retail as well. Not all states have legalized the use of this rare THC compound, so it is incumbent upon consumers to find out where the product is acceptable for recreational use and where it is considered illegal to use it.
Is it Delta 8 CBD Flower, Delta 8 Hemp Flower, or Delta 8 THC?
Delta-8 THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid and a variation of THC. There are no actual Delta-8 flowers because they occur in very low quantities in the hemp plant. Delta-8 flowers are made by spraying Delta-8 distillates on dense hemp buds. This process isn’t that complicated but requires the use of compliant material.
By this, CBD flower may be converted to Delta-8 CBD flower using several variables, including broad and full-spectrum distillates. Using terpene variables may impact the quality and aroma profiles of Delta-8 hemp flowers. Expert hands may do these if you are not well-versed in the process.
Depending on what one is looking for, using the three names may mean the same thing. Delta-8 CBD flower and Delta-8 hemp flower may mean the same thing. The process of deriving Delta-8 CBD or hemp flowers is the same and involves the use of Delta-8 THC flower distillate.
Effects of Delta 8 Flower?
Delta-8 is an isomer of Delta-9 and may produce the same analgesic effects as Delta-9 but to a lower degree. Its action on the endocannabinoid receptors in the brain is undeniable, but the effects are milder. Some THC pundits, however, posit that its use may lead to a legal high.
This situation is necessitated by the loophole provided by the 2018 Farm Bill. Many users have reported feeling relaxed and uplifted by the use of Delta-8 THC flower. Research has established that when used with edibles, Delta-8 may exhibit almost the same pharmacological properties as Delta-9 THC.
Because Delta-8 expresses low psychoactive effects, it does not mean that its use is without side effects. Some individuals have reported experiencing hunger pangs, loss of short-term memory, anxiety, and paranoia. Using the product in excess may heighten these effects. Studies, however, are limited in this area.
Is Delta 8 Legal?
The legality of Delta-8 THC flower is entangled in ambiguities raised by the 2018 Farm Bill, which redefined the definition of marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act. Previously, under the act, marijuana and hemp were illegal. The derivatives of hemp and cannabis with very low THC were removed from the former definition.
I am personally keen to understand the legal position of Delta-8 THC flower, which is still considered a Schedule 1 controlled substance. There is a raging debate within some quarters as to whether the low THC concentrations in Delta-8 mean that it isn’t prohibited by federal law. Delta-8, however, is federally legal.
Some states have passed marijuana laws following the 2018 Farm Bill provision that designates CBD with 0.3% THC derived from marijuana as federally legal. This opened the space to innovative THC products that are tailored to meet individual needs and carve a niche in an expanding market.
What to Look for When Shopping for Delta 8?
New Delta-8 THC flower users may struggle to find the best product if they do not know what to look for. Several factors may guide you to know what to look for when shopping for Delta products. These pointers are essential to establish what is safe and what is not.
Even though the FDA doesn’t sanction the use of Delta-8, premarket approval may still be required before use. A lot of interest has developed in recent years about Delta-8, which may be seen by the relaxation in various jurisdictions over the legalization of the product.
Price
Delta-8 flowers can be acquired at very affordable prices online and in CBD shops. That is not to say that the prices are cheap. Because Delta-8 THC flower is a niche product that is a distillate of Delta-9, it could cost slightly more than the latter.
Here are a few pointers that may help bargain hunters like me looking for a fair price:
- Purchasing Delta-8 THC tinctures and flowers may come at a bargain when purchasing at wholesale prices.
- Look for vendors who offer discounts based on the frequency of purchases.
- Compare prices of different vendors before making a purchase.
Prices may vary from vendor to vendor. You may, however, get a general view of the different prices by making comparisons through research.
Quality
The quality of a THC product is among the first things I look forward to establishing before making a purchase. As a consumer, you may find it difficult to distinguish a quality product from a mediocre one due to the many brands available that make wonderful claims.
Here are a few pointers that may help you when shopping for Delta 8 THC flower:
- Establish that the product is sourced from organically grown hemp.
- Does not contain additives or intoxicants like pesticides.
- The THC ought to be tested and verified by third-party labs.
- Vendors should be willing to provide additional product information upon inquiry.
You can keep abreast with industry-related information and news on the development of Delta-8 THC as a way of keeping up with quality.
Lab Tests
Lab tests are the key determinants of potency Delta-8 and designate the same as safe for use. Third-party labs are often published on vendor websites and are available for download. A testing lab will provide a document called the Certificate of Analysis for perusal. This displays a chemical profile of all terpenes in the THC.
This document will show the details of the testing lab and list the THC profile, including any other ingredients included in the product. Such an important document must never be overlooked. Credible vendors know the importance of lab results and ensure their customers can scrutinize them.
In an industry that is unregulated by the FDA, specialized lab testing may be the only bridge that informs the consumer and addresses safety concerns about the product they ultimately consume. Some extraction processes involve the use of caustic solvents, and this may be a concern to consumers like you.
Reputable Vendor
Without proper information, you may fall prey to unethical vendors who sell untested Delta products that may contain harsh chemicals. The popularity of Delta-8 THC flower has led to the proliferation of many inferior brands, and users need to rely on a list of approved THC vendors.
A quality vendor will have the following:
- Positive customer reviews on product and user experience.
- Chemical or reagent-free manufacturing methods.
- Updated third-party test results.
- Open communication with its customers.
The few pointers above may help customers spot potential red flags quickly and enable them to weed out fake vendors.
Strains
Though this may sound technical to the average user who only wants to experience the benefits of Delta-8, there are varying strains of Delta-8 THC flower. There are two primary strains: indica and sativa strains. Sativa strains provide more of an innervating and euphoric feeling. Sativa strains are known more for their head effects than body ones.
Indica strains, on the other hand, affect the body physiologically and may lead to improved appetite and sleep. This sedating influence causes muscles to relax and slows down brain activity. When both indica and sativa strains are combined, a third strain, known as a hybrid strain, is produced.
Delta 8 THC Flower Shelf Life
Researchers generally agree that CBD expires after two years. The expiration of cannabidiol leads to its degradation, where it loses its potency and becomes ineffective. Since Delta-8 THC flower comes as degraded Delta-9, this generally means that it may have a longer shelf life after the Delta-9 dissipates or disintegrates to Delta-8 THC.
The shelf life of Delta 8 tinctures is not more than two years. Delta-8 cartridges average between one and a half years. Storage also plays a critical factor in the shelf life of the products. When stored in a cool, dry place, the product may reach its expected shelf life. Warm temperatures lead to the quick degradation of THC.
What is not yet known by research is how long Delta-8 THC flowers may last. What is known, though, is that when they expire, they are non-toxic and no longer pack the potency and robustness they once had before the end of their shelf life. Proper storage is therefore encouraged to ensure that their shelf life is extended for future use.
