To better understand the effects of hemp-derived delta-8 THC, The Krugers partnered with Buffalo-based Bison Botanics to conduct a social media survey. The survey included self-reported experiences by delta-8 consumers.
Edibles include any product infused with the cannabinoid delta 8 THC, like gummies and chocolate. When compared to smoking delta-8, edibles have different effects.
Better Control for Dosage
Delta 8 THC is becoming increasingly popular among cannabis consumers, with many describing it as the “nicer younger sibling” of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Hemp-derived products featuring delta-8 THC are popping up in stores and dispensaries nationwide.
However, it’s important to note that because delta-8 THC is not derived from the marijuana plant, these products may not be tested for safety and potency. In addition, it is also not legal in all jurisdictions.
Moreover, a delta-8 THC product’s onset and duration can differ depending on how it is consumed. For example, gummies take longer to kick in because they must first pass through the digestive system. On the other hand, vapes hit your bloodstream almost instantly and can offer a more controlled experience.
The onset and duration of edibles can also depend on your tolerance level, metabolism, and weight. Regardless of your chosen method, most experts recommend starting small and waiting a few hours before eating another dose.
It is impossible to overdose on delta-8 THC, but taking too much could lead to a paranoid reaction or feelings of anxiety and confusion. Generally, starting with a low dose of 2.5-5mg is best and increasing gradually. This will help you get the most out of your delta-8 THC experience.
Less Risk of Overdose
Delta 8 THC is a less potent form of cannabis, but it still produces mind-altering effects when consumed. In addition to reducing pain and nausea, Delta-8 THC has mood-boosting properties. Does Delta 8 make you high? It is believed to produce these effects by binding to cannabinoid receptors throughout the brain and body. Unlike delta-9 THC, Delta-8 does not form a strong bond with these receptors and is thus less likely to cause side effects like vomiting or hallucinations.
However, consuming too much Delta-8 THC can have dangerous consequences. This is particularly true for those with a low tolerance to THC or who have not yet developed one. Overdose symptoms may include dizziness, trouble concentrating, and impaired motor coordination. In severe cases, overdose can lead to a loss of consciousness or death.
Edibles typically take 30 minutes to 2 hours to begin to have psychoactive effects. This long onset time can allow someone to accidentally consume more than their body can handle before they realize it. Additionally, many edibles are packaged to look like children’s snacks and do not list their ingredients or nutritional information.
As more people use delta-8 THC, doctors are seeing an increase in emergency room visits related to the compound. In the first seven months of 2021, poison control centers reported 660 cases of adverse reactions in people who ingested delta-8 THC-containing foods such as gummies and brownies. Of these, 41% involved unintentional exposures, and 77% of those complicated pediatric patients under 18.
Less Risk of Side Effects
The delta-8 THC in these products is likely no more dangerous than the delta-9 found in marijuana, but because the plants used to make them are not regulated, they can contain harmful contaminants. This can lead to side effects in people with existing panic disorders, like anxiety and panic attacks. It can also cause hallucinations, paranoia, and psychosis in some users.
This is particularly true of edibles, which must pass through the digestive tract before they reach the bloodstream. The gummies and other ingestibles are often unlabeled, so consumers don’t know how much THC they consume or what other compounds might be in the product. As a result, the Centers for Disease Control and the Food and Drug Administration have both issued warnings about these unregulated cannabis alternatives.
When consumers choose a vaporizer instead of an edible, they can avoid these problems altogether. They can also control their dose so they don’t have a more intense experience than they wanted. And since vaporizers don’t require burning or combustion, they can’t cause lung irritation or discomfort like smoking can.
So, if you’re curious about trying delta 8 THC, start small and work your way up. Be prepared for some side effects, like dry mouth or sleepiness, and consume them in a safe environment. If you find delta-8 isn’t for you, try out other cannabinoids, such as CBD or CBG, which are not psychoactive and offer many of the same therapeutic benefits as delta-9 THC.
Healthier
In many ways, edibles are healthier than Delta 8 because you have more control over the dosage. This is especially true if you’re using Delta-8 tinctures. While tinctures take longer to kick in than edibles, getting the correct dosage with a miniature pipette is easy, usually printed with a measurement scale.
Edibles are also more regulated by law than smoking products. When it comes to sourcing your edibles, be sure that you choose a trusted source. Ideally, it would help if you were buying them from a company that produces their edibles or a producer who can verify their ingredients. If you’re purchasing them from someone else, ensure that you have a good relationship with this person and that they’re not hiding anything (like a low dose of THC).
Another benefit of edibles is that it’s tough to overdose on Delta 8. There are no known cases of people dying from too much Delta 8, but monitoring your consumption closely is important to avoid getting too high. Start with a low dosage and work up, adding more as necessary to achieve your desired effect. Generally, you’ll feel the impact of a Delta-8 gummy in about 30 minutes; tinctures will take longer. However, the onset time may vary depending on your metabolism and the method of consumption.
