VaporVanity recently released a report of the legality of Delta 8 THC, this report is to explain the matter further.
The name Delta 8 creates quite a stir. Delta 8 THC or simply Delta 8 is creating a buzz, especially in cities like New York, where it has been available for quite some time. Dive further into the article to understand what the buzz is actually about.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 is a cannabinoid. It has been gaining popularity over time as it gives a similar high to that of THC or tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is found majorly in cannabis. It is responsible for causing sedation, relief, euphoria, and much more.
Delta 8 has small parts of THC. The scientific name of THC is Delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol or simple Delta 9. Delta 8 is a reduced version of Delta 9. When Delta 9 is stored for a long time, it degrades and turns into Delta 8.
The effects of Delta 8 are similar to Delta 9 but are less vigorous. It has a different impact on everyone as it reacts differently in each body.
Some people surprisingly love the benefits that Delta 8 provides. They appreciate the intoxication that causes happiness, relief, and exhilaration. That’s why people are using products like Delta-8 gummies occasionally, but is it legal to consume these products? Let's find out.
Is Delta 8 Legal?
The legalities of Delta 8 exist in grey. There are only a few states that explicitly talk about Delta 8 THC. Other states forbid cannabis or even a subtle hint of marijuana. These states also prohibit Delta 9 THC.
As Delta 8 is different from Delta 9, most companies sneakily slip Delta 8 in the market. Many companies promote Delta 8 legally. We can say that Delta 8 is not illegal, but this is a point of debate currently. Federal law has explicitly banned Delta 9 but not Delta 8.
Ex-President Trump signed the Farm Bill on 20th December 2018. The Farm Bill made many industrial hemp products legal, including CBD. The law states that cannabis-derived products are permitted as long as they contain less than 3% of Delta THC.
Here is a fun fact. You can get Delta 8 delivered to you in the mail. Many companies send Delta 8 to all states except:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Idaho
- Iowa
- Mississippi
- Montana
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Utah
Companies often resist sending Delta 8 to some states due to the hazy legalities. You should always check the websites to check the eligibility of your state.
Delta 8 is a comparatively new drug, hence many states are ignoring this drug in their legalities. Having said that, some states are now working to tie the loose ends as they are trying to regulate the usage and production of Delta 8.
A bill is pending in Oklahoma that defines Delta 8 under the same umbrella as marijuana. A similar bill is pending in Alabama.
A state legislative committee recently voted to accept a change in the definition of THC. Policymakers in Oregon are working to recreate a policy that makes artificially derived Cannabinoids legal.
Delta 8 THC vs. Delta 9 THC
We have established that Delta 8 is a degraded form of Delta 9. Below we have listed the difference between the two for you.
Chemical Structure
Delta 8 and Delta 9 have double bonds in their molecular structure. Delta 8 has the bond on the 8th carbon, whereas Delta 9 has it on the 9th carbon.
This minute difference creates a significant impact on the chemical structure of both THCs. The location of these bonds affects the shape of the molecules. This shape determines how the molecules react in the body.
As a result, Delta 8 and Delta 9 have different reactions.
Stability Of Molecules
Delta 8 THC has more stable molecules than Delta 9. Delta 8 does not oxidize quickly, whereas Delta 9 gets oxidized easily and becomes cannabinol.
The stability of a compound affects its shelf life. Delta 8 is more stable and in demand. As a result, it qualifies as a good medicinal drug.
Effects After Consuming
There is a lot of evidence that states Delta 9 THC has intoxicating effects such as decreased coordination, vomiting, and slurred speech. There is no evidence of the same impact caused by Delta 8 THC.
Some studies suggest that Delta 8 has milder effects than Delta 9. The compound has different results depending on whether it is ingested or inhaled.
Endnotes
There is no doubt that Delta 8 is having a great time in the market. You can find them easily in gas stores, dispensaries, and legal cannabis stores. They are available in different forms, such as vapes, capsules, and tinctures.
Thanks to the Farm Bill, Delta 8 has been enjoying the center stage and shaking things up ever since, but the question remains, for how long?
