High Times in Local CBD Stores: Unpacking the Safety of Delta-8 THC

March 25, 2023

Mountaineer News

Community Health

BUCKHANNON (Mountaineer News) - You've no doubt seen an increase in CBD and Delta-8 shops around the area, and you may have wondered why the sudden influx?

Over the past few years, there has been a growing interest in these products, which has led to a surge in their availability and popularity. CBD and delta-8 are derived from the cannabis plant and are known for their potential health benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and improved sleep quality. However, with the increasing availability of these products, there is also growing confusion about their legality and safety.

In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the recent surge in CBD and delta-8 shops and the potential benefits and risks associated with these products, specifically, delta-8 THC.

Why the influx?

The recent increase in the number of CBD (cannabidiol) stores and products in Buckhannon can be attributed to a few factors.

Firstly, CBD has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its potential health benefits. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant that is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiety-reducing properties. As more research is conducted on its potential benefits, many people are turning to CBD as a natural alternative to traditional medications.

Secondly, the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill legalized the cultivation of hemp, a variety of cannabis that is high in CBD but low in THC (the psychoactive compound that produces a "high"). This has led to an increase in the production and availability of hemp-derived CBD products, which are legal in all 50 states, including West Virginia.

Thirdly, West Virginia is a state with a high rate of chronic pain and other health conditions that may be alleviated by CBD. According to a 2020 report by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the state has some of the highest rates of obesity, diabetes, and opioid-related deaths in the nation. As such, many people in West Virginia are turning to CBD as a potential treatment for their health issues.

The recent legalization of medical cannabis in West Virginia may have also contributed to the increase in CBD stores and products in the area. Since medical cannabis has been implemented, many people have become interested in exploring the potential benefits of cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD and delta-9 THC.

Delta-8 and delta-9? What's the difference?

Delta-8 and delta-9 are two different forms of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. While they are both forms of THC, they differ in their chemical structure and effects on the body.

Delta-9 is the most common and well-known form of THC. It is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis and is responsible for the "high" associated with marijuana use. Delta-9 binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system, producing a variety of effects, including altered perception, mood changes, and increased appetite.

Delta-8, on the other hand, is a less common form of THC that is found in smaller amounts in the cannabis plant. Like delta-9, delta-8 also binds to the CB1 receptors, but with less affinity. This means that delta-8 produces a milder and more subtle psychoactive effect than delta-9. Some users describe delta-8 as having a more clear-headed and energizing effect than delta-9.

One of the main differences between delta-8 and delta-9 is their legal status. Delta-9 is illegal at the federal level, while delta-8 is legal under certain conditions. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized the production and sale of hemp-derived delta-8, as long as it contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.

What are the potential benefits of delta-8 THC?

Some of the potential benefits of delta-8 THC include:

Reduced Anxiety: Delta-8 THC has been shown to have anxiolytic effects, which means it may help reduce feelings of anxiety and promote relaxation without the intense psychoactive effects associated with delta-9 THC.

Pain Relief: Delta-8 THC has analgesic properties and may help alleviate pain caused by conditions such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and cancer.

Anti-Nausea: Delta-8 THC has been shown to have antiemetic effects, which means it may help reduce feelings of nausea and vomiting.

Improved Appetite: Delta-8 THC may help stimulate appetite, which can be beneficial for people with eating disorders or those undergoing chemotherapy.

Neuroprotective Effects: Delta-8 THC may have neuroprotective effects, which means it may help protect brain cells from damage caused by injury or disease.

It is important to note that while there is some evidence to support the potential benefits of delta-8 THC, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on the body.

Is delta-8 THC safe?

Delta-8 THC can be derived from both cannabis and hemp plants. When it is extracted from cannabis plants, it is considered natural. However, delta-8 THC can also be synthesized in a laboratory from cannabidiol (CBD) or delta-9 THC. When delta-8 THC is synthesized in a lab, it is considered synthetic.

It is important to note that not all synthetic substances are necessarily harmful or dangerous. However, the source of the delta-8 THC is an important consideration when assessing its safety and quality. Synthetic delta-8 THC produced in unregulated or illegal laboratories may contain harmful contaminants or impurities, which can be hazardous to health.

Therefore, it is essential to purchase delta-8 THC products from reputable and trustworthy sources that can provide third-party lab testing results and ensure the safety and quality of their products. It is also important to follow dosage guidelines and consult with a healthcare provider before using any delta-8 THC products, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Although there is some evidence to support the potential benefits of delta-8 THC, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on the body.

If you are interested in trying delta-8 THC, start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. Be aware of any potential side effects, and discontinue use if you experience any adverse reactions. With careful consideration and responsible use, delta-8 THC may offer potential benefits for those seeking a milder and more subtle psychoactive experience or healing properties associated with the cannabis plant.