How Do I Know if Delta-8 Products are Good Quality?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is not only the most prevalent cannabinoid in marijuana, but it is also the illustrious compound that creates the psychoactive effects that make the cannabis plant so special. While its properties have been known for decades, it is only relatively recently that weed lovers have become aware of the differences within THC. Delta-8 is not the same as delta-9 THC, but rather delivers a milder high and has an ambiguous legal status.

What is Delta-8 THC?

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The placement of just one chemical bond is what separates delta-8 from delta-9. Delta-8 has a double bond on its 8th carbon chain and delta 9 has one on its 9th. Like delta 9-THC, it is one of the hundreds of compounds that exist in cannabis, but unlike the much more prevalent delta-9, it only shows up in small amounts. It also does not bind as well to the receptors in the brain and nervous system, which might be why the intoxicating effects are not as strong as delta-9. The high produced by delta-8 THC is more relaxing and tranquil than what delta-9 will often produce. It still offers plenty of the therapeutic properties that are associated with cannabidiol (CBD) like pain relief and mitigation of symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Delta-8 THC is normally produced by extracting CBD from industrially produced hemp and using acetic acid to turn into delta-8. It is not a simple process and makes those delta-8 gummies and delta-8 carts that seem to be everywhere these days fairly pricey. 

The Legality of Delta-8 THC

The legality of products featuring this type of THC is fluid, to say the least. 2018's Farm Bill deemed it legal at the federal level because Section 297A of the bill defines legal hemp as the plant cannabis Sativa L with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC concentration. Since it can be made from the CBD found in hemp it is legal in the eyes of the Feds and buying delta-8 online is not difficult. Once they realized that when CBD from hemp can be transformed into a federally legal cannabis product that can get its users high, however, those federal officials were not pleased.  

The result was that in August 2020 the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) issued an addendum to the Farm Bill declaring that any type of tetrahydrocannabinol created synthetically is now illegal. The addendum has done little to prevent cultivators and sellers from continuing to operate by claiming their delta-8 products to be naturally developed. Firstly, the term "synthetic" is not federally defined, and secondly, the demand, especially from consumers in states where cannabis with delta-9 THC is still illegal, coupled with the lack of federal oversight, keeps the production of delta-8 products at an all-time high.

Some states have taken matters into their own hands. Delta-8 is currently banned or restricted in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Kentucky, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, New York, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont and Washington. Other potential bans or restrictions are being examined by state governments in Alabama, Illinois, Michigan, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Oregon.

Where to Buy Delta-8

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The popularity of delta-8, its confusing legal status and the lack of regulation in the industry make it especially important for you to do some research before purchasing to be sure you're buying a quality delta-8 product. After you Google "Delta-8 THC near me," following a few simple guidelines can go a long way.

Confirm Third-Party Testing

 Just like quality edibles and other crafted cannabis products, if it has been tested in an independent laboratory, it is a good indicator that the company is diligent with what it is making. It also confirms that the company is established in the industry with enough financial backing to properly succeed. With third-party testing, the delta-8 product should receive the all-important certificate of analysis. 

What is the Extraction Method? 

This information should be available in a similar manner to the third-party testing certificate. Were synthetics used? If so, this would alter the product's legal status, at least on paper. It would also indicate the use of toxic chemicals. Try to find a product that was made by directly extracting CBD from the plant. 

Look for a Solid Online Presence and Positive Reviews

 As with any other product available in this country, an online presence with a well-articulated company history and mission statement indicate that things are being done properly. There might also be descriptions about the lab used, or how the hemp is farmed that can indicate that an enterprise is operating on the level. Reviews from fellow delta-8 users are also invaluable to understanding the type of purchase being made. Online rankings, blogs by industry experts, and reviews in respected publications are a great way to get direction to a safe and good-quality product.

Do you use delta-8 THC products? Why do you find them enjoyable? What prompted you to give this type of THC a try? Let us know in the comments section!