What is Delta 8 THC?
Spoiler alert: It’s not an old airplane or new iPhone, and it’s not the hottest-new-soon-to- be-disasterous crypto startup. But it might be in your weed soda or gummies, and before too long—in you.
Delta 8 THC or d8 (short for delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, but who’s got the time?) is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It’s a close chemical cousin of Delta 9—the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that gets people high. But Delta 8 is kind of like d-9 THC’s chill, semi-employed sibling who’s just along for the ride.
Is Delta 8 THC just a new synthetic?
Not quite. Delta 8 occurs naturally in the cannabis plant, but in tiny amounts. Most of what you’ll find in consumer products is made by converting CBD (usually derived from hemp) into Delta 8 in a lab.
So, technically: Not synthetic, like Spice or K2, but definitely lab-tweaked. It’s the Impossible Burger of THC. Plant-based, science-kissed.
What gets people high: Delta 8, Delta 9, or THCa?
Short answer: Delta 9 is the star of the show when it comes to getting high.
Delta 8 can get you buzzed, but it’s like listening to music through a shower speaker—same song, fuzzier quality.
THCa, on the other hand, doesn’t get you high unless it’s heated. Like, say, with fire.
How strong is Delta 8?
The short answer is “it depends.”
Often, Delta 8 is thought to be about half as potent as Delta 9. That means you probably need more of it to feel the same effects. (Or…because it’s delivered in a delicious form and you want more, YMMV).
How long does Delta 8 stay in your system?
Delta 8’s chill vibes don’t leave your body quite as quickly as they arrive. It can hang around for a few days to over a week, depending on your metabolism, usage frequency, and other factors. (More on this below, but yes, it can show up on drug tests. Pobody’s nerfect.)
What about Delta 8 side effects?
Some folks say Delta 8 gives them a relaxed, body-focused high. Others say it makes them feel foggy or uncomfortably heavy. Reported side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Coordination issues
- Paranoia (though typically less than Delta 9)
- And occasionally, "This tastes weird and now I feel weird”
Since this cannabinoid isn’t as well-regulated or well-researched as Delta 9, experiences can vary. And not always in a good way.
A lot of bad THC experiences? Often Delta 8.
What is Delta 8 used for?
People use it to relax, decompress, or take the edge off. Some claim it helps with sleep or mood. But clinical research is limited, so take those claims with a grain of Himalayan salt. (We’ve heard their grains are average size for salt, but obviously you’ve gotta take that with a grain of recursion.)
These days, Delta 8 is popping up in just about everything short of breakfast cereal (though we wouldn’t bet against it). Some common product types include:
- Gummies – The candy aisle’s mildly rebellious cousin
- Tinctures – Droppers full of mellow for the wellness crowd
- Vape cartridges – For those who want their buzz ASAP
- Softgels or capsules – If you like your cannabinoids like your vitamins
- Seltzers, sodas, and other beverages – Fizzy, chill, and usually found next to the craft beer cooler
- Dabs and concentrates – For more seasoned users chasing a particular vibe
Whether it’s for sipping, snacking, or puffing, Delta 8 is used in a wide range of hemp products, especially where more traditional THC products are restricted by state law. It’s the loophole darling of the cannabinoid world.
Does Delta 8 show up on drug tests?
Yes. Standard drug tests look for THC metabolites, and your body can’t always tell if the THC came from Delta 8 or Delta 9. So even if you’re sipping a legal hemp-derived drink, your test might not know the difference.
Get the straight dope
Want to know more about the THC experience or the science behind these products before you strike out on your high adventure?
Check out our THC guide. It’s like CliffsNotes—but for weed.