Is Delta-8 THC Illegal?
Most people avoid THC at all costs, but as it turns out, not all THC is made the same.
In this article, we turn our attention to a new cannabinoid that is growing in popularity, as we answer the question; is delta-8 THC illegal?
Despite being discovered in the early 70s, delta-8 THC is still not well known, and it’s entering the cannabinoid market only now. It’s, however, not new to the science community. Over the years, it has been the subject of many clinical studies and has some proven medical benefits.
When most people use the name THC, they are often referring to the notorious delta-9 THC, the most famous cannabinoid that is loved and hated for its ‘high’ causing properties.
This may, however, change soon as more research on cannabinoids can now be conducted after the 2018 Farm Bill was passed into law.
In this article, we look at the legal status of delta-8 THC, its uses, and the best delta-8 THC products.
Is Delta-8 THC Illegal?
Short answer, NO.
Delta-8 THC is legal federally as long as it comes from hemp with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.
For a detailed explanation, we have to look at what delta-8 THC is and where it comes from to understand where it stands legally.
What is THC Delta-8?
Delta-8 THC, also written as ∆8-THC or 8-tetrahydrocannabinol, is a double bond isomer of ∆9 THC.
This means that they have the same number of atoms, molecular formula but different structural arrangements and properties.
THC delta-8 is the newest cannabinoid after CBD and THC to hit the headlines for its potential therapeutic uses.
It’s one of the 100+ cannabinoids that occur naturally in the cannabis plant and one of the four most studied cannabinoids.
Delta-8 THC’s lack of popularity is most likely due to its low concentration.
It’s only naturally present in cannabis at levels less than 1%. The only way to experience its effects is to consume concentrates.
2018 Farm Bill; Is Delta-8 THC Distillate Illegal?
Hemp-derived delta-8 THC is legal.
The 2018 Farm Bill made hemp and all its derived extracts legal federally as long as they contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.
In Section 297A of the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, also known as the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is defined as the Cannabis sativa L plant, any part, seeds, derivatives, extracts, isomers, salts, acids, cannabinoids, and salts of isomers, with a delta-9 THC concentration of not more than 0.3% on a dry weight basis.
In Section 12619, the Farm Bill amends the controlled substances act to exclude tetrahydrocannabinol in hemp as defined by section 297A.
8-tetrahydrocannabinol is an isomer of THC found in hemp, it’s a derivative of hemp and is a cannabinoid found in hemp with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.
However, some states have legislature banning delta-8 THC.
These states include Mississippi, Utah, Rhode Island, Iowa, Colorado, Idaho, Delaware, Alaska, Arkansas, Montana, and Arizona.
You should check your state’s law to ensure you are on the safe side.
Is Delta-9 THC The Only Illegal Cannabinoid?
Delta-9 THC is illegal federally and in some states of the United States. Under federal law, cannabis remains a schedule 1 drug if it contains more than 0.3% THC.
Some states have legalized it for recreational and medical use. Some have legalized cannabis for medical use but with limited THC content. Some states have decriminalized it, and in some states, it remains prohibited for any purpose.
Delta-8 THC is, however, legal federally and in most states except the ones listed above.
Will Delta-8 THC come Up in a Drug Test?
There is not enough research available on ∆8 THC drug testing. It’s, therefore, not clear whether it would make you fail a drug test or not.
Its close chemical composition to 9-THC suggests that it may show up on a drug test.
The body likely metabolizes them in the same way, and it may then come up in drug tests that look for the presence of metabolites.
You should use any products with any THC at your own discretion. Until there is conclusive research on ∆8 THC drug testing, it may be wise to avoid it if you are expecting a drug test.
Possible Medical Benefits of Delta-8 THC
Here are some of the health benefits of delta-8 THC:
- Powerful Antiemetic – This is its primary known medical benefit.
∆8 THC is known to inhibit nausea without the more potent psychoactive effects caused by ∆9 THC.
A 1995 study on children under cancer chemotherapy treatments found that delta-8 THC prevented vomiting without the side effects associated with 9-THC.
- Pain Relief – Delta-8 THC is thought to have the same analgesic properties as delta-9 THC and CBD.
- Increases appetite – Delta-8 THC may be useful in managing ailments whose symptoms or treatments cause loss of appetite.
One study on mice found that low doses of delta-8 THC increased food consumption following weight loss.
- Anti-anxiety – Delta-8 THC causes similar psychoactive effects as delta-9 THC without paranoia and anxiety.
Consumers report its effects as uplifting, calming, and relaxing and does not affect concentration.
The Best Delta-8 THC Products
1. Canna Aid Delta-8 Tincture
This tincture contains delta-8 THC and is designed to help reduce stress, nausea, tension, and stimulate the appetite.
The 8-THC is converted from CBG using sophisticated processing techniques and blended with CBD to form this all-round tincture that provides full hemp plant benefits.
It comes in a 30 ml bottle with a dropper for more accurate dosing.
It’s available in two strengths; 600mg and 1200mg depending on the severity of your symptoms.
Pick one today at the Great CBD Shop for $39.99 for the 600mg and $79.99 for the 1500mg strength.
2. 3CHI Delta-8 THC Distillate Syringe
This 3CHI distillate contains between 94-99% delta-8-THC concentration in a 1ml Luer lock syringe for easier use.
The distillate is viscous but does not crystallize; however, it almost behaves like a solid at low temperatures.
The distillate is obtained from organically grown hemp. It has no delta-9 THC and contains no terpenes.
Due to its high viscosity, you must heat the syringe to avoid breaking it when trying to dispense the contents.
You may heat with a water bath or with a hairdryer until the oil flows freely.
Remember to wear gloves and observe safety precautions.
The package includes a syringe tip that may be used to dispense the oil in items like vape cartridges.
Pick one today at the Great CBD Shop for $49.99.
3. Canna Aid Delta-8 THC Gummies
These delightful strawberry gummies are infused with full-spectrum hemp oil from organically grown hemp.
These gummies are available in three convenient packs; 8ct pack (30 mg delta-8 THC each gummy, 240mg total), 16ct (30mg Delta-8 THC each, 480mg total) and 20ct (5mg delta-8 THC each, 100 mg total).
Pick one at the Great CBD Shop for $19.99 – $39.99.
Take Away; Is Delta-8 THC Illegal?
Delta-8 THC is legal in the United States, federally and in most states except those with laws banning it.
The 2018 Farm Bill made hemp, its derivatives, and compounds legal as long as the delta-9-THC remains below 0.3%.
However, there is insufficient research to determine whether it may come up in a drug test.
You may want to avoid it if you have an upcoming drug test.
Consult your doctor if you are unsure about dosage or if you are already on a treatment plan.
