All about Delta 8 THC!
Cannabis has been growing in the wild for centuries and it’s intoxicating, and calming effects have been utilized across the globe and over generations of consumers. The flower contains 144 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, such as CBD, CBG and CBN. The most popular and widely known of these cannabinoids is Delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), responsible for the psychoactive high which most associate with being stereotypically “stoned”. With the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill it was discovered that another cannabinoid offers a familiar high coupled with some unique differences, Delta 8 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 THC is a minor cannabinoid found in very small concentrations in both cannabis plant species (marijuana and hemp). Both naturally contain 1% delta 8 THC. Chemically delta 8 THC is different from its cousin delta 9 THC by the location of atomic bonds. Both delta 8 and delta 9 THC have double bonds on the molecular chain. Delta 8 THC contains that bond on the 8th carbon chain, while delta 9 THC contains the bond on the 9th carbon chain, also lending to the naming of the cannabinoids.
Delta 8 is an analog of delta 9 THC. While the two are very similar in structure, and both bond to the receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), there are some differences worth noting.
- Delta 8 tends to be somewhat less psychotropic than delta 9, because delta 8 is altered and therefore does not bind as tightly to the ECS’s CB1 receptor.
- CB1 receptors are found primarily in the brain and central nervous system and are responsible for mediating THC’s psychotropic effects. This difference also provides the consumer with a clear minded high, with the ability to concentrate, and reduced anxiety.
- Delta 8 THC has also been given a good amount of attention for its profound effects on cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and appetite stimulation.
How is Delta 8 made?
Delta 8 THC is derived from the hemp plant in which it is found in very small amounts, making it necessary to have mass amounts of dried hemp flower in the extraction process. The dried plant matter is broken down and ran through a distillation process involving variants of heat and pressure in order to isolate the delta 8 THC. Typically, the end product is an odorless, clear, viscous distillate containing over 80% delta 8 THC. If this process is repeated, the end result will usually contain close to 98% delta 8 THC. By processing plant matter into Delta 8, manufacturers are also extending the shelf life of the delta 8 products. Delta 9 THC ages and converts into CBN, making the effects of the cannabinoids totally different, and far more sedative then before it over aged. Once the flower has gone through the extraction process, the end result will remain as delta 8 for a much longer span of time, making this an ideal cannabinoid to infuse into gummies, vapes and even drinks that provide consumers with the anti-anxious and mind stimulating lift they are looking for.
Where to Buy Delta 8 in Charlotte NC
Delta 8 THC is available in our Charlotte CBD boutique, GreenLife Remedies. Come visit us at 501 Penman Street, or give us a call at 980.819.9882 to inquire about our D8 selection.
