Is D8 Right for You? 3 Things to Consider Before Trying D8

For a number of years, when we talked about cannabis most people were talking about THC or CBD, but both of these incredible plants contain hundreds of cannabinoids. This includes CBG, CBN and CBC which you may or may not have heard of, but they are being celebrated within hemp.

Now, Delta 8 THC has begun to take the spotlight.

Delta 8 THC is the sister cannabinoid to the traditional Delta 9THC we all know and love, but provides the user with a unique experience that some are calling ‘THC lite’.

What is Delta-8-THC?

Delta 8 THC is structurally similar to Delta 9 THC, with the only difference being that the double bonds in its molecular structure are on the 8th carbon chain rather than the 9th.

Despite their similarity, these two cannabinoids provide the user with a different experience. Those in the D8 community say it acts similarly to both CBD and THC and therefore is often described as providing an experience that’s between CBD and THC. This means that the psychoactive experience is less intense than Delta 9 THC and is less likely to make the user feel anxious or paranoid. While it simultaneously provides the user with the therapeutic benefits of CBD. The reason researchers believe Delta 8 provides this unique experience is that it binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors.

How to know if D8 is right for you?

Delta 8 has the potential to provide a unique experience to the user, but how do you determine if it will be right for you? Here are three things to consider before trying D8.

Understand how the experience is going to differ from ‘regular’ THC or CBD

If you have previously only used CBD, D8 is going to provide a more intense experience as a result of the psychoactive components. This can be a great thing for new users or those who are curious about THC but are unsure about the experience or are unable to access cannabis. In this case, it’s important to start at a low dose and increase slowly so as to not overwhelm yourself with the experience.

If you’re a previous cannabis user, ie. Delta 9 THC, the experience with D8 is also going to be different. So, you cannot expect to have the same psychoactive experience you’ve previously had with THC. Although Delta 8 may be less intense at the same dose, in many cases this is not a bad thing. Delta 8 can provide the user with a psychoactive experience while simultaneously allowing them to feel more clear and focused.^[1]

Consider why you may want to try Delta 8 over CBD. Or even switch from CBD to Delta 8

Some people who have tried CBD feel as though it doesn’t, or hasn’t, worked for them. This may be a result of the fact that CBD provides behind-the-scenes benefits without the psychoactive effects. So, in some cases, the experience may be subtle, therefore challenging to identify. Since Delta 8 binds to the same receptors as CBD it has the potential to provide the same benefits; but at the same time, it’s easier to tell it’s working as a result of the subtle psychoactive effects.

Conversely, if you’re already a fan of CBD, there are additional benefits associated with switching to Delta 8 THC. Since Delta 8 binds to both cannabinoid receptors it has additional benefits when compared with CBD, which only binds to CB2 receptors. This is similar to the Entourage Effect users benefit from when consuming full spectrum CBD that contains trace amounts of other cannabinoids as well as terpenes. Also, for those who would like to use THC but are unable as a result of it not being legal in their state, Delta 8 may be a suitable alternative.

Consider Consumption Method and Setting

Finally, if you’re ready to try Delta 8 it’s important to consider both the method of consumption as well as the setting. There are a number of ways of consuming Delta 8. Some like to go with the traditional method of vaping, while others prefer not to inhale anything into their lungs and therefore choose an alternative method such as a tincture. If you are new to THC consumption we suggest avoiding edibles the first few times as they can be more unpredictable, more intense, and last longer. Check out the rest of our blog to learn more about the consumption methods of Delta 8.

Since Delta 8 does have psychoactive properties, it’s important to consider setting, particularly for one’s first time consuming this product. You want your first experience to be a good one, so a suitable and safe setting is important. Create a physical environment that’s safe and comforting and only includes people you trust. It can also be helpful to plan suitable activities that complement the experience; such as good music to listen to or creative activities you can engage in. Also, ensure you don’t have any upcoming obligations that may interrupt your experience. Given its somewhat intoxicating properties, you should avoid operating a vehicle or heavy machinery after consuming Delta 8.

Is D8 Right for You?

Delta 8 has the potential to provide users with a unique and therapeutic experience. While users will experience a psychoactive high it will be less intense than the traditional Delta 9 THC experience and may allow the user to feel more focused and clear-headed. Though it’s important to note that while Delta 8 is theoretically legal in a number of states it may cause a person to fail a THC drug test as the structure of Delta 8 and Delta 9 are so similar. So, those who are subject to drug testing should be cautious.

Ready to try Delta 8? Check out Laughing Buddha D8’s product line. Not ready to commit yet? That’s okay. Explore the other educational resources on our website to learn more about Delta 8 THC and its numerous benefits.

^[1] These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Laughing Buddha’s products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.