Methods to Consume D8

Delta 8 THC has gained the attention of people all across the United States, both previous cannabis users and new users. There are numerous benefits associated with Delta 8 THC, or D8, for all types of users. It provides a less intense psychoactive experience than the Delta 9 THC which is great for newer users, or those looking for a psychoactive experience that allows them to stay more energized and focused. It also has the additional benefits of binding with the CB2 receptors which make it act similarly to CBD and provides the same therapeutic benefits.

There are numerous ways of consuming D8. Here are some of the most common methods of consuming D8 and the benefits associated with each.^[1]

Vaporizing

Vaping is often a popular choice because it’s convenient, and the effects are experienced quickly. Vaping is inhaling vapor produced by using devices like D8 vape pens. These devices heat liquid into a vapor that the user inhales into the mouth and lungs, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream.

There are a couple of different ways to vape. The most common way is vaping a D8 liquid – this is typically done through either a ‘tank-style’ vape or a vape pen.

With the ‘tank style’ vape, a battery heats up a small disposable cartridge (or a refillable container). The heating coil inside is filled or wrapped with cotton or other similar product to absorb the liquid into the coils.

Vape pens on the other hand house a small battery that heats the oil in an atomizer cartridge containing a wick and a heating coil.  Vape pens tend to be the easiest to use and only require the atomizer to be replaced semi-regularly. Most tend to go for the pen method.

Edibles

Delta 8 infused edible products are one of the most popular methods of consumption, with gummies being a common go-to. These are a favourite for a number of reasons. Edibles, such as gummies, are easy to consume in moderation as they typically come in small serving portions. They’re also available in a number of tasty flavours, which is great for those who don’t want their edibles to taste like cannabis or CBD. Of course, gummies are not the only types of edible products available, D8 is also commonly infused into chocolates, and some companies are even experimenting with drinks.

It’s important to note that edibles take longer to feel the effects as a result of the fact that they’re broken down and absorbed through the stomach. Onset takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour and the effects can last longer. Because of this, it’s important to start at a low dose and increase slowly. You want to ensure you’ve given enough time for the first dose to take effect before increasing the dose.

Tinctures

Tinctures are cannabis products that are in liquid form. They are generally taken sublingually and often all you need is a few drops – hold it under your tongue for 60 seconds before swallowing. The effects take effect relatively quickly as it’s absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the blood vessels under the tongue. This means they take effect more quickly than other oral methods, such as edibles, because they bypass the stomach. Tinctures are also a great way of infusing some of your favourite meals or drinks, though this does impact its onset time.

With tinctures, it’s important to pay attention to the quantity administered as they may be more challenging to portion than other products. This is a result of the fact that there is no standard for measuring tinctures.

Take note of whether or not the dropper has measurements on it as this can help you calculate the amount dispensed; if it doesn’t, calculate the quantity of cannabinoids per drop and then determine the number of drops to take to get the desired effect.

One drop of liquid is 0.05 ml. So, to calculate the portion, multiply the total number of ml of the bottle by 0.05 to get the total number of drops (ex: 10ml bottle is 200 drops). Then divide the total amount of D8 in the bottle by the total number of drops to get the quantity administered per drop (ex: if the bottle contains 500 mg D8 it’s 2.5 mg per drop). So, with this example, to get a serving of 5 mg of D8 you’d need two drops of oil.

Mixed with Flower

Some companies are making Delta 8 infused hemp flower from CBD dominant strains. Typically, they take a hemp flower that contains less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC which is legally compliant and spray it with Delta 8 THC. Companies often finish this process by rolling the flower in CBG or CBD kief which creates a product similar to moon rocks. Moon rocks are nuggets of cannabis flower that are dipped in extracts and rolled in kief.

Topicals

Topicals can be administered to the skin directly to the site of pain and inflammation. Delta 8 can be infused into roll-on or cream topicals in a similar manner as Delta 9 THC or CBD. D8 infused topicals are a great option for those who are looking for a stronger impact than a CBD-only topical but are concerned about using Delta 9 THC for personal or legal reasons.

Dabbing

Some are choosing to dab D8, though dabbing is recommended for more experienced users, particularly those who have dabbed before. Dabbing is the vaporization of cannabis concentrates, once they are applied to a hot surface and inhaled. This process requires specific equipment that can be relatively expensive.

Choosing the Best Method for You

As you can see there are numerous ways of consuming Delta 8 THC. The best method for you will be based on a number of factors such as, previous experience with cannabinoids, ease of consumption, ease of determining serving size, taste, etc.

You may want to try a few different methods to determine what’s best for you. Or you may find different consumption methods are more appropriate for different times or different goals. For example, vaping or using a tincture may be most appropriate for quick relief from symptoms such as pain while edibles may be your go-to for a relaxing Friday night at home.

Know there is no one best consumption method when it comes to Delta 8, it’s a personal choice.

Ready to try Delta 8? Check out Laughing Buddha’s D8 product line.

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