Compounds including Delta 9 THC and cannabidiol (CBD) are well known and understood by the average adult. But savvy consumers are also aware of another component that is in big demand, called Delta 8 THC or D8 THC. The U.S. market is responding to this trend and providing greater access to products that feature this helpful compound.

With all the developments in the cannabis industry in recent years, more consumers are becoming comfortable with cannabinoids like Delta 8 THC. However, those using natural products as part of a health and wellness routine might not beware of all the implications consuming cannabis might bring. There are many advantages and disadvantages. Explore the topic of D8 THC and find out how long it can stay in your system.

 

 

A Legal High: The 2018 Farm Bill

Although it is banned in some states, Delta 8 THC is technically legal on a federal level. You can thank the 2018 Farm Bill for this. All cannabis products with less than 0.3% THC are legal for sale in the U.S. Because Delta 8 THC is derived from the hemp plant and contains a low potency of THC, it is considered legal to purchase. However, consumers should proceed with caution. This compound may be legal, but there’s no regulatory framework currently—something the FDA and CDC are evaluating for the safety of consumers. At the moment, product testing is the responsibility of producers and retailers for the time being.

Get to Know D8 THC

Similar to D9 THC, D8 THC is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. It can produce a less potent high without the adverse effects of Delta 9 THC. There’s plenty of anecdotal evidence that Delta 8 THC provides beneficial impacts on the body, but further research is needed before we can say exactly what. However, as many as 71% of consumers report feeling relaxing effects.

While milder than Delta 9 THC, the psychoactive effects of Delta 8 THC also have the added benefit of not causing the same side effects. This means that for people who want to experience Delta 9 THC but are prone to paranoia, D8 THC is a fantastic alternative. 

D8 THC products come in a variety of formats for consumers to choose from. Many inhaled options include the whole flower and concentrates, including vape cartridges and pre-rolls. Consumers also have plenty of ingestible options, including edibles like tinctures, gummies, and soft gels. Choosing the right product for you depends on lifestyle factors and what experience you hope to achieve.

 

 

Let’s Examine What D8 THC Does to Our Bodies

D8 THC binds to the CB1 receptors located in the body, activating the endocannabinoid system. This reaction is what is responsible for the compound’s therapeutic effects. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for many functions in your body, including regulating systems that impact your mood, appetite, and sleep. It was discovered in the early 90s by researchers who were learning about the effects of THC on the human body. With over a hundred cannabinoids discovered in cannabis plants, researchers are digging into the effects of each of these products on your system. 

After you consume D8 THC, how long does it last in your system?

In truth, it depends. Each situation is different. Many factors influence the length of time Delta 8 THC can stay in your body. For example, factors like your frequency of use, the product’s potency, and your individual metabolism can influence the outcome. You can feel the initial effects of consuming cannabis for up to five hours. After the psychoactive effects have peaked, the remaining metabolites can stay in the system between 2 to 90 days. This is because THC has high lipid solubility, resulting in slow excretion from the body. 

Can different methods of consumption affect the absorption?

How you consume Delta 8 THC will affect how long you experience the psychoactive effects and how long it stays in your body. The general rule of thumb is “fast up, fast out.” This phrase means that the faster you experience the high, the sooner your body will clear it from your system. 

There are three primary methods of consumption that will influence how your feel. 

Inhalation — this method includes vapes, flower, and concentrates, among others. When you inhale the Delta 8 THC, you will feel the effects within minutes. This method of consumption is the fastest.

Ingestion — you can ingest cannabis products in any format imaginable, but most people prefer gummy candies. Whether it’s for ease of use, the ability to modify dosage, or the simple fact that they’re delicious, our Delta 8 THC gummies are some of the most popular on the market. Consuming Delta 8 THC through an edible is one of the slower uptake methods. Often we advise our customers to wait as long as an hour before increasing the dose or trying again! This also means you feel high for longer, and the Delta 8 is metabolized slower.

Sublingually — consuming Delta 8 THC through a tincture sublingually (under your tongue) may fit under ingestion, but it does pick up faster than edibles. This is because the capillaries directly under your tongue will absorb the Delta 8 THC directly into your bloodstream. For speed of the effect, think of it as faster than edibles but slower than inhalation. 

 

 

Wrapping Up

If you are a new consumer, start using products with low potency and gradually increase. In order to have a positive experience, we recommend consumers use cannabis with intent. Be mindful of the reason you consume and what you’re consuming. As a result, consumers can experience optimum wellness and avoid potential legal trouble with the right information. It’s better to be safe and not sorry.

All of our products are made in the USA. The Hemp Doctor offers consumers organically grown, full-spectrum cannabinoid products to support optimal performance and improve overall well-being. Try our line of premium quality Delta 8 THC edibles, soft gels, and tinctures.