The cannabis world is so much more than just skunk, weed and hemp. With the explosion of medical marijuana research, we’ve been introduced to a whole host of cannabinoids that may help with a range of different issues. Of these, delta-8-THC is probably one of the lesser-known but still extremely important substances. The delta-8 THC molecule is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. It’s an endocannabinoid that produces similar effects to delta-9 THC without the high. In this article, we will explain exactly what delta-8 THC is, its benefits and some potential side effects.
What is a Delta-8 THC Molecule?
A delta-8 THC molecule is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in a variety of cannabis plants. Delta-8 THC is a metabolite of delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis. Delta-8 THC is a potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective agent. As a metabolite, delta-8 THC is the by-product of delta-9 THC that your body processes. This means that it’s not an active substance in itself, but rather a transformed version of an already-existing compound.
Understanding THC Molecules
THC molecules naturally occur in the plant’s resin glands, which secrete a resinous substance called trichomes. Trichomes are small and sac-like structures on the buds and flowering areas of the plant. The different THC molecules have different properties and effects on the body. The THC molecules found in most cannabis plants are delta-9 THC and delta-8 THC. It’s important to note that delta-9 THC is the only molecule that produces a psychoactive effect. The other THC molecules don’t cause any mind-altering effects, but they do have a wide range of medicinal and therapeutic benefits.
Benefits of Delta-8 THC
Delta-8 THC is a potent anti-inflammatory. It can help reduce swelling, pain and irritation in the joints and muscles. It can also help ease arthritis and other inflammatory disorders. Delta-8 THC can help lower blood sugar levels, so it may be beneficial for people with Type 2 Diabetes. It could potentially help reduce cravings for sugar and stave off weight gain.
Delta-8 THC is a potent antioxidant that can reduce oxidative stress and damage to cells and DNA. This can help improve overall health and reduce the risk of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Delta-8 THC has neuroprotective qualities that can help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington’s disease, ALS, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s.
Side effects of delta-8 THC
Just like delta-9 THC, delta-8 THC can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and increased feelings of anxiety in some people. Some people also experience confusion, headaches and nausea when they take delta-8 THC. Delta-8 THC also has a long half-life, which means it takes a very long time to break down in your system.
Therefore, you may experience its side effects for a long period. Because it takes a long time to break down, you may experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking delta-8 THC. Taking high doses of delta-8 THC can also cause you to test positive for THC in a drug test, even if you have never taken cannabis before.
How is the Delta-8 THC molecule made?
Delta-8 THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that is produced as an endocannabinoid. This means that the human body naturally produces delta-8 THC. Humans have endocannabinoid receptors that are found throughout the body. These receptor sites bind to cannabinoids and help regulate many bodily functions. Delta-8 THC is produced when your body digests delta-9 THC. It’s a metabolite that helps regulate the body’s immune and inflammatory responses.
Conclusion
While delta-8 THC is naturally occurring, it’s also used as an ingredient in commercial cannabis products. These include creams, ointments, tinctures, patches, edibles, and even sprays. It is believed that the ingredients in these commercial products may be more potent than those found in cannabis plants. This means that the amount of delta-8 THC in a commercial product may be higher than that found in natural cannabis.
However, commercial products often come with warnings and they are not suitable for everyone. They may be higher in potency, have different side effects, and/or have a different metabolism than delta-8 THC that comes from a cannabis plant.
