I usually don't bring up CBD / MMJ on this blog. However, this is pretty important stuff and many vapers may start seeing this in their local vape shops.
You might have heard of it. It's one of the newer hemp fads and on the surface seems very interesting. One thing I can say. It's definitely here to stay.
SO WHAT IS DELTA8? DELTA-8? D8?
Here is the in all its scientific glory:
An analogue of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) with antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. [Delta-8-THC] binds to the cannabinoid G-protein coupled receptor CB1, located in the central nervous system…This agent exhibits a lower psychotropic potency than [delta-9-THC], the primary form of THC found in mmj.
The deltas are the fun part of any MMJ plant. It's what gets you "high". The biggest contributor to this is Delta-9. This is the standard in which most of your CBD companies use to sell their products in the USA legally..
THE GREY AREA:
Delta-8 is being pulled from hemp. Yes it's THC, however, both the feds and most state governments are only looking at Delta-9. (some states look at overall THC levels). This turns into one massive grey area. The simple fact is any vape cart can be labeled anything is in and of itself a huge problem for enforcement. Are they checking Delta 8? 9? THCA? THC? There are so many loop holes now.
SO WHAT DOES IT DO?
I call it the bridge between CBD and MMJ It has way more psychoactive / calming effects than CBD, but not as strong as normal MMJ.
It is sold as concentrates, hemp flower (sprayed with D8 concentrate), and so on. It can be used in every way CBD can be used.
SO WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR CBD?
This can be a good thing or a bad thing. Since this comes almost exclusively from hemp - this could impact the hemp market in unforeseen ways (new laws, etc).
The process to extract D8 from hemp is pretty expensive, so this isn't something someone is doing from their basement. Honestly I think this just as safe as vaping or smoking CBD. Just make sure your getting it from a reputable company with history.
WHAT ARE COSTS?
In terms of concentrates (vape carts) the average price is about $39 per .5 and $59.00 per gram. This will only drop in price, much like how CBD took a nose dive after everyone jumped on the band wagon.
BOTTOM LINE:
There are people (myself included) that need some sort of psychoactive effect to get any relief from pain. For some it's an absolute necessity to have a psychoactive effect to sleep. For me I would move these people right into MMJ, however its not available to everyone and it does come with a stigma.
Delta-8 allows you to keep the "CBD" but get some of greater effects of MMJ.
I will be talking A LOT more about this - picked up a few domain names.
delta8.bargains
delta8.cc
delta8.cheap
delta8.click
delta8.codes
delta8.coupons
delta8.discount
delta8.link
delta8.market
delta8.tv
delta8.wtf
delta8.review
delta8.farm
delta8.us.com
Eventually I predict in the coming years we will be able to custom order our blends in terms of terpenes and cannabinoids. Just like we do now with flavoring and nic levels.