Both newbies and experienced cannabis users have started to try out delta 8 edibles. And that’s not surprising, given the great taste and awesome effects they promise. But what’s all the rage about delta 8 edibles? Are they worth trying? Find out in our in-depth guide.
What are Delta-8 edibles?
Before we talk about delta-8 edibles, let’s first talk about what delta-8 is. Delta-8 or delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol is a cannabinoid present in plants that come from the cannabis family, including hemp. According to users, it is mildly psychoactive, making it different from its more potent counterpart: delta 9, the chemical responsible for the high in marijuana users.
Delta 8 edibles are made by infusing cannabinoids into any edible. Most commonly, these edibles are in the form of gummies, but they can have other forms, too.
Are delta 8 edibles legal?
Currently, delta 8 is legal in most states. Since it is a type of THC but not the kind that gives you a high like marijuana, it falls into a bit of legal gray area. Most delta-8 comes from hemp, which is federally legal if the hemp-derived edible contains less than 0.3% delta-9.
Even though the 2018 Farm Bill made hemp derivatives legal, including delta-8, some states have still tried putting restrictions on delta-8. So make sure you check the laws in your state before consuming these edibles.
You should also keep in mind that some brands sell delta 8 edibles derived from traditional cannabis, which are illegal in some states.
Can you get high with delta 8 edibles?
It is possible to experience a bit of euphoria or get a bit of a high with delta-8 edibles, but of course, it’s not going to be as strong as the one you get from delta-9. According to most users, delta 8’s euphoric feelings are less intense but more enjoyable. It also helps you skip the spaced-out feeling and grogginess that you get with delta-9 and enjoy the desirable effects.
For instance, you might feel more energetic and be able to focus on your work better while feeling more relaxed and slightly giddy.
Are delta 8 edibles safe to consume?
Delta-8 edibles are considered safe if they’re consumed appropriately. Of course, since it is a cannabinoid, you are bound to experience some side effects like dry mouth and fatigue. You might even get glassy eyes but in general, you won’t experience any major side effects if you don’t consume too much.
So even though delta 8 edibles are considered safe, make sure you’re careful about the dosage, especially if it’s your first time with THC. A toxic dose of delta 8 is highly unlikely but you can experience heightened side effects that you might find uncomfortable if you take too many edibles.
How long does it take for delta-8 edibles to kick in?
As is the case with most cannabinoid-based edibles, it can take some time for the effects to kick in. Most people start to experience the effects within 30 minutes but it can take up to 2-4 hours for the effects to fully peak. Unlike delta-9 which suddenly causes an onslaught of effects, delta 8 causes the effects to kick in more gradually.
How many delta 8 edibles should you consume?
The ideal amount of delta-8 edibles that one should consume differs from person to person. They can result in different effects in different individuals and depend on things like body chemistry and metabolism. They may also affect some more than others, especially those who haven’t tried THC before.
Just to be on the safe side, it’s better to start with a small dose and gradually increase it once you know how the cannabinoid affects your body and mind. For instance, if you’re taking delta-8 edible gummies, you can start with just one, see the effects it causes, and then adjust the number of gummies you take next time.
Just make sure you wait for a few hours to see how delta-8 affects you since it can take longer for edibles to reach the maximum effect.
What to look for in delta-8 edibles
If you’ve never bought delta-8 edibles, or just cannabinoid edibles, in general, you might be wondering what to look for. In general, you should look for independent lab testing, the company’s reputation, and quality ingredients. Here are more tips to keep in mind when buying delta-8 edibles:
- Look for ingredients in the edibles. Most commercially-produced delta-8 edibles will list d8 THC or plant-derived terpenes in their ingredient list.
- You should also consider the flavor. New products arrive on the market all the time, so make sure you pick a flavor you like. Some great flavors that all beginners love are watermelon and blueberry.
- Make sure you check out the brand first. Since you’ll be consuming these edibles, it’s important to choose an established brand that has an organic following. And make sure you go through the product reviews. This is especially important because delta 8 is new in the market so you have to be careful of who you trust.
- Next, check the amount of THC present in the edible. In edibles like gummies, the average dose of THC is 20-25 mg per gummy. Make sure you know the gummy’s mg dosage before consuming it. The THC content should be mentioned very clearly on both the label and even the website. Once again, if you’re taking a delta-8 edible for the first time, it’s better if you take half or a quarter of a gummy to know its effects on you.
- Independent lab testing is also very important and should be easily accessible and freely available on any website that you choose to purchase from.
Conclusion
If you’ve always been curious about cannabinoids or just want to experience the benefits they provide, you should consider taking delta 8 edibles before moving on to more potent cannabinoids like delta 9. Just make sure you do your due diligence and choose high-quality edibles with a flavor you’ll enjoy.
