Although less than half of U.S. states have legalized cannabis, and THC remains illegal under federal law, the cannabis industry has continued to find ways to expand through legal loopholes. The 2018 Farm Bill - which legalized the sale, distribution, purchase, and consumption of hemp and its derivatives - incidentally was the catalyst for one of the industry’s newest trends: Delta-8.
Delta-8 is a cannabinoid found in hemp that closely resembles THC - or Delta-9. Though the effects of Delta-8 are similar to the effects of THC, Delta-8 is far less potent than THC, and the high tends to be gentler and more body-centric rather than mind-centric. Calming and perfect for people with anxiety looking for a low-level high, Delta-8 is also more widely available than THC.
So, what are the best ways to take Delta-8? Where is Delta-8 available? What types of products are available?
Tinctures
Tinctures are made by extracting plant material into a solution, like extra-virgin olive oil. Tinctures are a good way to deliver plant material and cannabinoids quickly since the solution contains very few fillers. Tinctures are also highly accurate since the solution is blended to be completely homogenous, and dosing is done via a dropper. This makes tinctures (of any kind) a good option for people who need a convenient and easy-to-dose method of taking Delta-8.
At Vitaldiol, we happen to like tinctures, since we think they offer one of the purest and most efficient delivery systems. Our Essential Tincture is made from broad-spectrum CBD and extra-virgin olive oil and happens to pair well with Delta-8.
You can purchase Delta-8 tinctures online, at health stores, at smoke shops, and dispensaries. You can also purchase drinks made in Delta-8 cafes that contain tinctures and are made by expert baristas.
Edibles
Edibles are a fun way of consuming any cannabinoid, Delta-8 included. Like tinctures, Delta-8 gummies or Delta-8 edibles can be made at home from extracts and tinctures, purchased online or at stores, or found at cafes that serve Delta-8. You’ll be able to find gummies, chocolates, baked goods, and even savory items dosed with Delta-8.
Because Delta-8 is much less potent than THC, don’t be surprised if you find edibles in the 60-100 milligram range. The lowest doses of Delta-8 start at around 15-25 mg, whereas the lowest typical THC dose is around 2-5 mg.
Capsules & Pills
Capsules and pills are a good option for people who like to take their Delta-8 in the morning or as part of a wellness routine. Many people use Delta-8 and other cannabinoids for pain management, but recreational users may also enjoy the slightly delayed delivery method of taking Delta-8 capsules. You can take them along with your daily vitamins, take them alone to enjoy the low-level high or even combine them with CBD for an extra-relaxing dose of cannabinoids.
Try taking Delta-8 and one of our Rest Capsules, which contain CBD and melatonin to promote restful sleep. Looking for something to help you restore energy? Try a Recover Capsule instead with CBD + NMN.
Vapes
Because Delta-8 isn’t federally regulated, we don’t recommend vaping Delta-8 products. There have been many reports of vapes causing serious health problems for the people that use them, and nearly all have been knock-off, non-regulated formulas. Inhaling unknown substances (like oils) is unsafe, and potentially threatening to your health. For this reason, steer clear of Delta-8 vapes until there are more regulations to ensure they are made safely.
Flower
Delta-8 isn’t an abundant cannabinoid and is found in only small amounts in the hemp plant. Because of this, Delta-8 flower isn’t widely available, though some growers have been working to create genetic variants that contain higher percentages of Delta-8. Unlike cannabis, hemp can be purchased online and shipped to your door, making this a convenient option for people living outside of legal states. For the most part, Delta-8 flower isn’t widely available, but if you can get your hands on it, it’s worth a shot!
Cafes
Many legal states still do not permit restaurants, bars, or cafes to serve cannabis products, but Delta-8 isn’t a cannabis product! Delta-8 is derived from hemp, making it legal to purchase, sell, and consume throughout the U.S. Because of this, some cities and towns have begun to allow Delta-8 cafes to open, often serving coffee and baked goods infused with Delta-8.
If you’ve never tried Delta-8, having it at a cafe is a good place to start. Your barista or server can help you choose the right dose, and give you a good idea of what to expect as your high starts to set on.
So what do you think? Are you ready to try Delta-8 for yourself? Learn more about this exciting cannabinoid and check out our full line of CBD products when you visit our website and check out the Vitaldiol Blog!