Cannabinoids, Delta-8-THC, and Delta-9-THC

What you need to know …

Many people may not know why most countries have made moves to legalize hemp. We only know that it has many benefits, but there is a reason why people are so interested in the cannabis plant. For example, many states have legalized recreational and medical cannabis in the United States, and since then, researchers have been on their toes to understand all they can about the constituents and effects of the cannabis plant. These interests are what people know, but there is more about these plants.

So what is so special about it?

Cannabis

Cannabis generally refers to a group of plants with psychoactive properties known as Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis.  Some people refer to it as weed, pot, or hemp. These plants are harvested and dried to extract psychoactive substances or drugs from them.

Marijuana or Hemp?

While science doesn’t supply much about the difference between hemp and marijuana, the law does. The difference that exists between these two is their tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. THC is one of the chemicals present in the cannabis plant. It is primarily responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis.

What is Hemp?

The term “hemp” is used to mean cannabis that contains 0.3% or less THC content on dry weight. Hemp is very unlikely to get you high because of the low-level of THC contained in it.

What is marijuana?

When people refer to marijuana, they are simply talking about cannabis products that can get you high (“higher” than hemp). Marijuana is erroneously used interchangeably with hemp and many other variants/produce of cannabis

Legally, “marijuana” refers to cannabis that has more than 0.3% THC by dry weight. Right there is the difference!

THC content can vary among cannabis plants. Some strains are processed to be higher in THC than others. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is one of the hundreds of compounds within marijuana with major intoxicating effects.

Cannabinoids

The cannabis plant has more than 120 known components that are called cannabinoids. Some experts believe that there are more than 480 different compounds in the Cannabis sativa plant, but only around 66 are termed cannabinoids. Examples include:

• Cannabigerol (CBG)
• Cannabichromene (CBC)
• Cannabidiol (CBD)
• Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
• Cannabinol (CBN)
• Cannabidiol (CBDL)

Other classes

• Cannabicyclol (CBL)
• Cannabielsoin (CBE)
• Cannabidiol (CBT)

The Big Players

Of all the cannabinoids class, the delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (9-THC) and the Cannabidiol (CBD) are the most popular. These two compounds are globally recognized compared to other cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. This is because of their roles in the body and because they occur in large quantities.

Delta-9-THC

The  Delta-9-THC is the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, which means it is the compound responsible for people getting high or influenced when they take marijuana.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

The CBD possesses an anti-psychoactive effect that stabilizes or moderates the effect of the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). When a person consumes the substance and comes under the drug’s influence, the CBD acts like a step-down. 

The CBD  is also capable of reducing some of the negative effects people can experience from THC; anxiety and depression are some of those experiences. CBD also makes up about 40% of the plant resin extract. The popularity of the CBD is largely due to its health benefits. The CBD is more helpful in combating pain or any other kind of discomfort. The medical benefits of the CBD are yet to be completely discovered.

How Do Cannabinoids Work?

Cannabinoids influence the body by communicating with some receptors located in different parts of the central nervous system. The two major variants of cannabinoid receptors in the body are CB1 and CB2. 

Among the cannabinoid family, the THC or Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol is popular for its powerful psychoactive property. A cannabinoid that is not so known, with some of the psychoactive potency of Delta-9-THC, is beginning to make waves in the research world, and that is the  Delta-8-THC.

Quickly, let’s look into the nature and effects of the Delta-8-THC.

What is Delta-8-THC?

For a while, the Delta-8-THC remained under the shadow of its second, the Delta-9-THC, because of its popularity owing to global demand. If we look at it from a broader angle, very little is known about the Delta-8-THC, but it is not new in the scene and not too different from the Delta-9-THC.

According to the National Cancer Institute, delta-8-THC is an analog of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) with antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. Delta-8-THC connects with the cannabinoid G-protein receptor CB1, present in the central nervous system. This agent shows a lower psychotropic potency than the Delta-9-THC, the primary form of THC found in cannabis.”

To put it more simply, Delta-8-THC is one of the minor compounds found in hemp or the cannabis plant.

Delta-8-THC — Why you may not have known it

Unlike the popular Delta-9-THC and CBD, it does not appear in large concentrations. As earlier stated, other lesser-known compounds in the cannabis plant are overshadowed by the Delta-9-THC and the CBD. The Delta-8-THC falls into the category of the lesser-known compounds.

Recently, much comparison has been drawn between the Delta-8-THC and the Delta-9-THC. As more details are being discovered about the Delta-8-THC, many people have concluded that it is a shorter way to derive the pleasure offered by the buoyant Delta-9-THC and also avoid its pitfalls and effects.

Delta-8-THC based on research

Dr. Peter Grinspoon, a medical instructor at Harvard Medical School, opines that ‘‘Delta-8 has a portion of the Delta-9 —but not all of the psychoactivity.’’ This opinion is also held by the majority in the cannabis industry. Those who have used this compound admitted that it provided them with a milder kind of “high” instead of the strong influence wielded by the delta-9-THC. It is described as having a reduced potency and is less sedative.

The bulk of the excitement amongst its users is that Delta-8-THC promises to get you high without any feeling of paranoia or anxiety. For most persons who would like a substance to take them to an “elevated state” without bringing them to some low point, Delta-8 has been described as the go-to compound.

Drug use

 A new World Drug Report was recently released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). It revealed that over 35 million people suffer from drug use disorder. Users who battle anxiety and emotional problems from these drugs are now seeking something potent but less disruptive. Trends in the world have shown that the Delta-8 compound is growing in popularity among savvy cannabis consumers, but much speculation and doubt surround its legality.

New demand

The sudden surge in the Delta-8 has also been linked to its perceived better medicinal gain. Although it has not been clinically proven, it is said to possess additional medicinal effects than regular THC, such as better pain relief. The industry ratings show that the demand for Delta-8 has spiked up as most persons consider it not just a replacement but a worthy substitute.

Now, let’s see the difference between these two:

Delta-8-THC Vs. Delta-9-THC

While Delta-8 might be referred to as an isomer of Delta-9-THC, a difference exists between them. Both compounds contain identical molecular structure but with different positioning of the critical chemical bond.  In terms of their molecular chain, Delta-9-THC contains the 9th bond, and Delta-8-THC contains that on the 8th. This difference goes a long way to determine how the body’s receptors react to the molecules. 

• In terms of their pharmacodynamic profile, Delta-8- THC has similar pharmacodynamic properties with Delta-9-THC. It is described as an agonist of CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors with about half the potency of Delta-9-THC —some measures of biological activity. 
• Delta-8-THC connects with cannabinoid receptors less efficiently than Delta-9-THC does.
• Delta-9-THC is less constant than Delta-8-THC. Delta-8-THC is steady, does not oxidize to become cannabinol, and has prolonged shelf-life. The ability to be stable is a desirable characteristic in a medicinal compound. Delta-8-THC is also about half as strong as Delta-9-THC.

Detecting Delta-8-THC in Cannabis Products?

Due to its low concentration, Delta-8 is barely used as an active ingredient, so some manufacturers infuse a high percentage of it in their product, which can have its effect. To be on the safe side and know the percentage of Delta-8 in your product, consult the product’s Certification of Analysis.

Safety Concerns and Effects

Since Delta-8 is relatively new in the scene and not so much is known about it, it is important for users to tread with caution. For users of Delta-8, it is important to know that much of the information available about its benefit comes from animal-based studies. Much exhaustive work has not been done as regards scientific research.

An animal-based research recently conducted revealed that administering Delta-8 (along with delta-9-THC) resulted in increased blood pressure by temporarily constricting the blood vessels. It was also observed that the effect Delta-8 had on animals was different from what it had on humans. 

Different reactions in animals and humans

Another study showed that while delta-8-THC significantly slowed heart rate in animals, it conversely increased heart rate in humans. Following the study, it was concluded that more human-based researches had to be conducted to determine how Delta-8 affects blood flow in humans. Such studies will go a long way to provide a guideline on the compound. 

Delta-8 —its limitation and caution

Another safety concern about the Delta-8 is that most claims about its benefit are mostly anecdotal. There has been no comprehensive or detailed work from a recognized medical body to endorse the claims on its benefits. This lack of data from authorized sources leaves the user with a sense of caution.

When compared to other options such as Delta-9-THC, the side effect of Delta-8-THC is almost minimal. 

Delta-8—its caution

Since it is a known psychoactive compound, self-control has to be exercised. Although it is not as harsh as its twin, Delta-9-THC, it still possesses the power to get the user high. Restraint has to be exercised while using it because there is a strong possibility for overindulgence. It is safer and much better to begin with little doses. For example, take a little dose and observe how long it takes before the effect is noticed.

Noteworthily, just like Delta-9-THC, Delta-8 can cause redness of the eyes when applied in strong doses. Once again, being moderate in usage is a safe way of not getting adversely affected.

Benefits of Delta-8-THC

Although it is considered illegal and controversial, Delta-8 still possesses some considerable benefits despite being a minor member of the cannabis family. It is still relevant to recite that these supposed benefits are merely claims from users and are not yet backed up by authorized scientific bodies.

Now, what are the benefits?

Appetite stimulant

A 2004 study revealed that  Delta-8, when applied in small doses, increased cognitive functions and heightened appetite in mice.  The experiment was carried out with 0.001 m/kg administered to the subject, and an increased craving for food was the result.

It was also observed that the outcome was without the common side effect of cannabis. This study noted that Delta-8 could be a  potential therapeutic agent in handling weight disorders. The bonus of this kind of weight loss treatment is that it is void of the usual risk and effect associated with using cannabis.

Antitumor

In 2013, a study was conducted, and from the study, it was deduced that Delta-8-THC could help hinder tumor. Delta-8 joins the list of some of the cannabinoids that can inhibit tumors. Delta-9-THC, delta-8-THC, and cannabinol (CBN) were found to prevent the growth of Lewis lung adenocarcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo. From the result of the study, it was decided that these cannabinoid group can also help to inhibit the growth of other tumors.

Antiemetic

A 1995 study published in Life Sciences showed that Delta-8 was a good tool in reducing the symptoms of nausea in children with few side effects.  About 8 children within the age range of 3-13 were given 18 mg/m2 in edible oil. These children had hematologic cancers, treated with different antineoplastic drugs for up to 8 months. Vomiting was stopped as a result of the treatment, and the side effects were considered negligible.

Analgesic

A 2018 study demonstrated that delta-8-THC and CBD had the potential for treating pain and inflammation. The study provided sufficient evidence that Delta-8-THC and CBD are antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory.

Neuroprotective properties

Another strong benefit of Delta-8 is the presence of neuroprotective properties. A 1987 research conducted on mice and published in the  Alcohol and Drug Research journal showed that Delta-8 might possess some neuroprotective properties based on the brain activity observed in the study. 

During the study, various cannabinoids were tested, but Delta-8 stood out in the series of tests conducted. The effect of Delta-8 was said to have been triggered almost a minute after the dosage was administered.

Although these benefits look exciting and promising, further studies must be conducted for more reliable results.

Extraction and Use

Consumers and users will not be able to find Delta-8-THC flower on the market because it grows in negligible amounts in cannabis. It is said that most dried cannabis contains less than 1% of the substance. To get this substance available, it has to be extracted via a means of scientific processes.

Despite being formed in the cannabis plant when Delta-9-THC becomes oxidized, Delta-8 can also be extracted or converted using other cannabinoids and made into a concentrated form for various uses.

Commercial processing of Delta-8

Commercial processors employ different methods to extract Delta-8 and create a potentially viable product to cause noticeable effects. Methods like selective breeding, distillation, and molecular isolation are used to create rich concentrates in Delta-8.

A method known as isomerization is used to convert the common cannabinoid CBD into Delta-8-THC and Delta-9-THC. Another intriguing way used is the “thin-film distillation” of cultivated flower and trim. This way, manufacturers utilize vacuums, temperature manipulation, and scientific equipment to convert Delta-9-THC to Delta-8. This allows for purification and isolates specific cannabinoids by removing residual solvents, impurities, and any other undesirable compounds. This process is said to produce one of the most potent and neat Delta-8 in the legal market. 

Although this extraction process is fascinating, it has been identified as a difficult task because of its meticulous and thorough stages. It simply shows everyone the enviable beauty of science. 

Delta-8 —Avialable Types of Products

Delta-8 products are available for use in almost every form except for smokeable flowers. Those who consume Delta-8 products can vaporize, eat, or ingest it through the following types of products:

• Distillate cartridges 
• Distillate syringes
• Oil vapes
• Vape cartridge 
• Oil 
• Tincture
• Concentrates
• Edibles
• Beverages

Delta-8-THC and the Entourage or Ensemble Effect

It is widely believed that Delta-8 could encourage the entourage or ensemble effect, which is why cannabis works best when taking the full spectrum of cannabinoids at once. Instead of isolating these compounds. Going by these theories and beliefs, Delta-8-THC should help with the entourage effect because it is another cannabinoid.

Last Words

Delta-8 is now gaining ground on the market, and some have said that they are experiencing a different kind of high that has been tagged “clear-headed high.” Many people believe that this newly-identified feeling is more pleasurable than that of the regular THC product because it offers lesser risk. As earlier established, more research has to be conducted to allow the use of these products with no fear. The absence of proven research means that it is important not to test the waters with both legs.

 With the high demand and popularity of Delta-8, more research will be conducted, and viable proofs will be made available, but until then, caution is advised with much emphasis on moderation.