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Tips Delta-8 Products

momofthegoons

Vapor Accessory Addict
Staff member

Analysis: Unregulated Delta-8 Vape Products Frequently Mislabeled, May Contain Heavy Metals


Rochester, NY: Delta-8 vapor products frequently contain heavy metals and are typically far less potent than advertised on the products’ labeling, according to data published in the journal Chemical Research in Toxicology.

A pair of researchers affiliated with the University of Rochester, Department of Environmental Medicine assessed the purity of 27 e-cigarette products containing synthetically derived delta-8 THC.

Researchers determined that none of the products provided accurate labeling regarding delta-8 THC content – a finding that is consistent with prior research. They wrote, “Delta-8 THC levels can vary as much as 40 percent from the label value, suggestive of poor testing capabilities and falsified results.”

Additionally, 11 of the products contained high levels of “unlabeled cutting agents,” and all of the products tested positive for the presence of heavy metals – including magnesium, chromium, nickel, and mercury. Investigators suggested, “These metals are likely leachates from vaporizer components or production materials, and their inhalation could cause deleterious effects on the respiratory tract that stem from the generation of reactive oxygen species.” Prior analyses of commercially available vapor cartridges have similarly identified the presence of metal contaminants following the use of the cartridges’ heating mechanisms.

“Further chemical, pharmacological, and toxicological testing of these and similar products is necessary,” authors concluded.

Although delta-8 THC appears organically in cannabis, it is only produced in minute amounts. By contrast, the elevated quantities of delta-8 THC in grey market products is the result of a chemical synthesis during which manufacturers convert CBD to delta-8 THC. Manufacturers engaged in synthetizing delta-8 THC are not regulated and often use potentially dangerous household products to facilitate this process.

In October, NORML issued a report on delta-8 THC and other novel, synthetically derived cannabinoids that cautioned consumers to avoid these unregulated products because they are untested and may contain impurities.

Full text of the study, “Novel delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol vaporizers contain unlabeled adulterants, unintended byproducts of chemical synthesis, and heavy metals,” appears in Chemical Research in Toxicology. Full text of NORML’s report, “NORML’s Guide to Delta-8 THC and Other Novel Cannabinoids,” appears online.
 

Analysis: Unregulated Delta-8 Vape Products Frequently Mislabeled, May Contain Heavy Metals


Rochester, NY: Delta-8 vapor products frequently contain heavy metals and are typically far less potent than advertised on the products’ labeling, according to data published in the journal Chemical Research in Toxicology.

A pair of researchers affiliated with the University of Rochester, Department of Environmental Medicine assessed the purity of 27 e-cigarette products containing synthetically derived delta-8 THC.

Researchers determined that none of the products provided accurate labeling regarding delta-8 THC content – a finding that is consistent with prior research. They wrote, “Delta-8 THC levels can vary as much as 40 percent from the label value, suggestive of poor testing capabilities and falsified results.”

Additionally, 11 of the products contained high levels of “unlabeled cutting agents,” and all of the products tested positive for the presence of heavy metals – including magnesium, chromium, nickel, and mercury. Investigators suggested, “These metals are likely leachates from vaporizer components or production materials, and their inhalation could cause deleterious effects on the respiratory tract that stem from the generation of reactive oxygen species.” Prior analyses of commercially available vapor cartridges have similarly identified the presence of metal contaminants following the use of the cartridges’ heating mechanisms.

“Further chemical, pharmacological, and toxicological testing of these and similar products is necessary,” authors concluded.

Although delta-8 THC appears organically in cannabis, it is only produced in minute amounts. By contrast, the elevated quantities of delta-8 THC in grey market products is the result of a chemical synthesis during which manufacturers convert CBD to delta-8 THC. Manufacturers engaged in synthetizing delta-8 THC are not regulated and often use potentially dangerous household products to facilitate this process.

In October, NORML issued a report on delta-8 THC and other novel, synthetically derived cannabinoids that cautioned consumers to avoid these unregulated products because they are untested and may contain impurities.

Full text of the study, “Novel delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol vaporizers contain unlabeled adulterants, unintended byproducts of chemical synthesis, and heavy metals,” appears in Chemical Research in Toxicology. Full text of NORML’s report, “NORML’s Guide to Delta-8 THC and Other Novel Cannabinoids,” appears online.


Or is this just about cannabis industry competition and protection of existing Delta 9 investors?

 

Are Delta 8 Edibles a Safe Alternative for Your Health?

Delta 8 edibles offer users a delicious, legal way to enjoy a buzz with wellness benefits. But are Delta 8 edibles a safe alternative for your health?

There are a million and one reasons to try Delta 8 edibles, especially with the myriad offerings available to consumers in the cannabis market today. With a rich tapestry of products from which to choose, including Delta 8 gummies, Delta 8 chocolates, Delta 8 honey, and more, the possibilities are truly endless. And why not? Now you can enjoy an all-natural, hemp-derived legal high that not only gives you the munchies but one that satisfies them at the same time! Beyond the buzz, however, there are more reasons to indulge in Delta 8 products—most notably for your health and wellness. But are Delta 8 edibles a safe alternative for your health?

What’s a Delta 8 Edible?

Before diving into the top reasons for indulging in Delta 8 edibles for your health, let’s take a brief look at Delta 8. More importantly, let’s answer the question, “What’s a Delta 8 edible?” Most readers are probably aware that Delta 8 is a form of THC—yes, THC is the compound that gets you high. Delta 8’s chemical structure mirrors its close cousin, Delta 9 THC. Moreover, cannabis and hemp plants count delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol as one of the hundreds of cannabinoids found inside them. The point is that Delta 8 is similar to Delta 9 THC, though much less potent.

The Different Kinds of Delta 8 Edibles

The list of Delta 8 edibles is almost never-ending. Under the Farm Bill, which Congress passed in 2018, hemp is officially legal, as are all hemp-derived products, making Delta 8 edibles available for distribution and consumption. It’s directly responsible for the rise in Delta 8’s popularity. In just two years, consumers have seen a considerable list of edible products come to market, including, but not limited to, the following:

  • Fruity gummies
  • Milk chocolates
  • Dark chocolates
  • Potato chips
  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • Energy Drinks
  • Honey
  • Cookies
  • Brownies
  • Seltzers
And while users can infuse foods with Delta 8 at home, do-it-yourself types usually find it’s much easier to shop for available treats and goodies. Not only that, it’s much safer, too, especially when you know a retailer maintains transparency and tests all their products.

Delta 8 Edibles Get You Buzzed (For Your Health)

While it may seem counterintuitive initially, the high is one of the best reasons to try Delta 8 edibles as a safer alternative for your health. Let’s be honest, and upfront—Delta 8 edibles get you buzzed. It’s most likely why you’ve heard of or shown interest in these products in the first place (and there’s nothing wrong with that—in fact, it’s excellent!). One of the main reasons most of us enjoy being high is because it benefits our well-being.

Think about it for a moment. What happens next when you eat a square of Delta 8 chocolate or pop a couple of Delta 8 gummies? Chances are any of the following feelings wash over you:


  • Calm
  • Relaxation
  • Bliss
  • Happiness
  • Euphoria
  • Peacefulness
  • Sleepiness
  • Stress Relief
  • Anxiety Relief

Delta 8 Edibles Benefit Your Overall Wellness

Sure, the buzz from Delta 8 is a wellness boost in and of itself. But, when we dig a little deeper, we find there’s more to this novel cannabinoid than just the high. The best part is there’s no need for a medical cannabis card to take advantage of these wellness benefits. If you want Delta 8 edibles to boost your health and wellness, all you need is a love of chocolate (or gummies) and the fortitude to add it to your everyday regimen.

How Can Delta 8 Edibles Be Used To Boost Your Wellness?

To begin, hemp-derived products like gummies are simply cannabinoids derived from hemp. When the edibles, whatever they may be, are infused with Delta 8, they becomes something new—THC products with added wellness benefits. A legal high in today’s world is something quite rare, but so is chocolate that can keep your blood pumping (so to speak). Delta 8-infused edibles offer you just that, the health and wellness benefits of Delta 8 in the foods and snacks you love.

The research into Delta 8 THC’s overall wellness properties is still in its infancy. Much of our knowledge is based on consumer data, anecdotes, and first-hand reports. But the stories we have are powerful, and they have been repeated numerous times by user after user, showing the potential that Delta 8 edibles bring to the table. With that understanding, the following table lists all known benefits of Delta 8 edibles.

The Bioavailability of Delta 8 Edibles

One of the more compelling reasons Delta 8 edibles make for a safer alternative for your health is their bioavailability. Measuring the absorption rates of the compounds your body ingests is a more significant issue than you may think, especially when, with infused products, bioavailability can be as low as 6%.

In real terms, this means Delta 8 edibles take longer to peak, have a milder, more subtle high, and last much longer than a vape product, for example. Eating some Delta 8 edibles begins a metabolic process that takes a few hours. After chowing down on some sweet Delta 8 gummies, our systems have some work to do:

  • Following its journey down the esophagus, the edible reaches the stomach.
  • The stomach digests the edible, using acids and enzymes.
  • Here, THC is absorbed by the stomach lining.
  • Next, Delta 8 hits the liver.
  • In the liver, Delta 8 converts into a potent substance called 11-hydroxy-THC. It’s extremely strong.
  • Finally, we cross the blood-brain barrier, where a high is achieved.
The effects of 11-hydroxy-THC can sometimes last up to eight hours—even longer. So Delta 8 edibles may not start “working” right away, but they put in overtime when they do!



The article goes on to list (and link to) 3 of the brands of Delta 8 products they recommend. I don't want to include the links since it is a sponsored article and I haven't tried the products. As such I do not wish to promote them. If you are interested follow the title link and scroll to the bottom of the article. - motg
 

What is delta-8?


Delta-8 is a cannabis compound that has become popular because of its similarity to delta-9 THC, the main compound in cannabis that gets you high, causing euphoria, happiness, sedation, symptom relief, and much more. Large amounts of THC are found in a majority of cannabis strains.

The similarities between the two cannabinoids lie in their chemical structures and their names. THC’s scientific name is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or delta-9 THC, or just delta-9. Delta-8 is short for delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, or delta-8 THC. Delta-8 THC can cause effects similar to regular delta-9 THC—but they will be much less potent.

Delta-8 and delta-9 are both forms of THC. In common usage, when people refer to THC they are talking about delta-9 THC. (In this article, when we use the term “THC” without a modifier, we are referring to delta-9 THC.)

Currently, the legality of delta-8 is hazy. It can be extracted from either hemp or cannabis. Because of the 2018 farm bill, hemp can be legally grown and used for extractions all over the United States, making delta-8 legal in states where delta-9 THC is illegal—sometimes.

Nearly all delta-8 THC on the market today is manufactured from hemp-derived CBD, which makes it, in theory at least, part of a federally legal chain of origin.

People in states where THC is illegal crave cannabis products and are now looking to delta-8 because it may be legal in their state, even though it is less potent than regular THC. Many hemp-based extractors are ramping up delta-8 production to meet this new demand and shipping it all over the US.

Delta-8 vs. delta-9 THC: What’s the difference?​

Delta-8, like delta-9 (regular THC), binds to the body’s endocannabinoid system, which causes you to feel high. Chemically, delta-8 and delta-9 are similar in that they both have a double bond in their structures. This double bond is thought to produce the intoxicating effects that make you feel high.

The two THCs are chemically different in the placement of the double bond. Both cannabinoids have a chain of carbon atoms, but delta-8 has the double bond on the eighth carbon, whereas delta-9 has it on the ninth.

Delta-8 binds to the endocannabinoid system in a slightly different fashion because of the location of its double bond. This is what is thought to make delta-8 much less potent than regular THC. However, more research needs to be done on delta-8 and how it interacts with the body.

Will delta-8 get you high?​

Delta-8 will get you high, albeit not as high as common delta-9 THC. For those living in states where cannabis is illegal, delta-8 may be a legal way to experience some THC-like effects from cannabis.

Some consumers may even prefer cannabis products that aren’t as strong as common THC, even if they can legally obtain THC products. THC can cause negative effects for some, bringing on anxiety or paranoia. Delta-8 may offer a smoother, milder high.

Leafly’s Dante Jordan tried delta-8 THC and described it as a lighter, more energizing high than traditional delta-9 THC. “Yes, delta-8 definitely gets you high,” he wrote, “but it was a lighter high than I’m accustomed to from smoking joints, taking dabs, and eating regular edibles.”

How long does a delta-8 high last?​

A delta-8 high will last as long as a high from regular THC, but the high will be less strong. How long it last depends on how much you consume—if you hit a vape or smoke delta-8 flower, it can last an hour or more, and if you take some gummies, they can last a few hours.

Benefits of delta-8​

As delta-8 is similar to THC, consumers can get some of the same benefits from consuming it. Some conditions delta-8 can help with include:

  • Pain relief
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Nausea
More research needs to be done on delta-8, how it interacts with the body, and what potential benefits it may have for consumers.

Effects of delta-8​

Delta-8 consumers report many of the same effects as THC, such as mild euphoria, happiness, uplifting feelings, and relief from some symptoms such as pain, although the compound is much less potent. Delta-8 can also help with insomnia.


Side effects may be similar to those of THC, including dry mouth, red eyes, getting the munchies, short-term memory, paranoia, or anxiety. It’s important to note that delta-8 hasn’t been studied extensively and more research is needed on the effects it has on the mind and body.

Delta-8 vs. CBD​

Delta-8 has more similarities to THC (delta-9) than CBD, both in its chemical structure and because it gets you high. Delta-8 THC binds to the body’s endocannabinoid system more like delta-9 THC. CBD doesn’t bind as readily to the endocannabinoid system, making it non-intoxicating, although CBD can offer medicinal benefits for the consumer.

If you are looking for effects similar to THC but with a reduced potency, delta-8 may be for you. If you seek relief from certain symptoms and don’t want to get intoxicated, you may want to try a CBD product.

How much delta-8 should I take?​

For most people, especially moderate or experienced consumers, delta-8 will feel much weaker than regular THC. If you are new to cannabis, delta-8 could affect you strongly—it depends on your body chemistry.

Delta-8 can be purchased in many of the same forms as traditional marijuana products, but vape carts and gummies are the most common.

To give a sense of delta-8’s potency relative to THC, delta-8 edible producers commonly measure and dose their gummies at more than twice the strength of THC gummies:

  • THC gummies often come in 10mg gummies—people may take half a gummy or a full gummy for a dose, either 5mg or a full 10mg.
  • Delta-8 gummies often come in 25mg gummies—so half of one would be 12.5mg, and a full gummy is 25mg.
In creating these standard gummies, producers are calculating that delta-8 is less than half as strong as regular THC, so a 25mg delta-8 gummy might equate to the effects of a 10mg THC gummy.

Again, it’s important to note that very little research has been done on delta-8. We don’t know much about how strong its effects are, and how it affects the body. As with any cannabis product, the chemical profile of the cannabis, your body’s chemistry, your tolerance level, your set and setting, and the amount you take all affect how you will feel.

It’s always recommended to take a little bit at first and then wait for the onset of effects before taking more. The consumption method will affect how quickly you feel those effects. If you’re vaping delta-8, you should feel the effects within ten minutes or less; if taking edibles, wait at least an hour or two before taking more.

Is delta-8 legal?

Delta-8 currently exists in a legal gray area.

Few state laws specifically address delta-8 THC at this time. Most state laws that pertain to marijuana or cannabis use language that covers marijuana, cannabis, THC, CBD, or delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol. There are 11 states where delta-8 is believed to be illegal according to state law. (See list below, under “Can I get delta-8 in the mail?”)

The federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has, in a proposed rule, indirectly classified delta-8 THC as a Schedule I controlled substance, which would make it federally illegal. That rule is not yet final.

Delta-8 THC is commonly sourced from hemp, not cannabis, which is why it’s currently sold in many states where cannabis is illegal. To be more specific, nearly all delta-8 THC currently on the market is derived from CBD extracted from federally legal hemp.

This can be a little confusing because hemp is, technically, a cannabis plant that contains less than 0.3% THC. When we talk about “cannabis,” though, we’re commonly referring to cannabis plants with THC content of 0.3% or higher.

The 2018 farm bill, a federal act passed by Congress, legalized hemp in the United States. That act defines hemp as: “All derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts, and salts of isomers, whether growing or not, with a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of not more than 0.3 percent.” This language makes delta-8 legal, because it does not contain any delta-9 THC.

However, some states have chosen not to adopt this specific language of the farm bill in their own state laws, making delta-8 illegal in certain states. Producers and retailers of delta-8 sell only to states that have laws mirroring the farm bill’s language. Even then, some producers may only sell to certain states based on their own interpretation of a state’s laws.

Additionally, in August 2020, the DEA released an Interim Final Rule (IFR), a document meant to update and confirm the differences between hemp and cannabis. That interim rule said: “All synthetically derived tetrahydrocannabinols remain Schedule I controlled substances,” which would make delta-8 illegal because it is a tetrahydrocannabinol that is extracted, or synthetically derived.

So whether the farm bill’s language stands, which outlaws plants with more than 0.3% delta-9 THC, or the new IFR language is adopted, which bans all tetrahydrocannabinols, will determine the fate of delta-8. The DEA’s IFR is open for review until October 2021, and until then, delta-8’s federal legality remains hazy.

Does delta-8 show up on a drug test?​

The short answer is: probably.

Research on delta-8 is still in its infancy, so whether or not it will show up on a drug test is not fully known. As it is a cannabinoid similar to delta-9, or regular THC, we think it’s safe to assume that any test for delta-9 will also show delta-8. But how the compound interacts with your body, how it differs from delta-9 interactions, and how long it stays in your system is still unknown.

If you know you are getting a drug test, it’s probably best to play it safe and abstain from consuming delta-8.

Is delta-8 safe?​

Leafly correspondent Marissa Wenzke investigated the safety factor of delta-8 THC products. The experts she consulted suggested the main risk factor could come from untested, unlicensed delta-8 THC vape cartridges purchased on the unregulated market.

In 2019, the booming market in illicit-market THC vape cartridges allowed bad actors to pollute their vape oil with toxic vitamin E acetate, which led to thousands of hospitalizations and more than 60 deaths. Today’s delta-8 THC cartridges, when purchased outside a legal state-licensed cannabis store, hold the same risks.

Read more about the risks in the Leafly report, Is delta-8 THC safe? Here’s what the experts say.

Can I get delta-8 in the mail?​

You can receive delta-8 in the mail depending on which state you live in. Delta-8 isn’t legal in all states, and different producers may choose not to ship to certain states because of its hazy legality. Be sure to check a producer’s website to see if they ship to your state. Surprisingly, states that have legal, adult-use cannabis laws don’t always allow delta-8.

Commonly, producers will ship delta-8 to all states except these:

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Colorado
  • Delaware
  • Idaho
  • Iowa
  • Mississippi
  • Montana
  • Rhode Island
  • Utah
  • Washington

How is delta-8 made?​

Delta-8 is found in trace amounts in cannabis and hemp plants, and as hemp is legal to grow anywhere in the US and more readily available, the cannabinoid is often sourced from that.

Commonly, CBD is extracted from hemp and refined into an isolate, and then CBD isolate is synthesized into delta-8. As such, delta-8 requires more processing and is more expensive to make than CBD, but this increased production cost is balanced out by the high demand for it.

How to find good, safe delta-8​

As delta-8 is relatively new to the market, it may be challenging to find products that are what they say they are and actually contain delta-8. When shopping for delta-8 products, check out a producer’s website to see if they have information on how they source and create their products.

Quality, tested products usually have a QR code or batch number on the box that allows you to look up test results on the producer’s website. Stay away from products that aren’t tested or have questionable test results, as you won’t know if they even contain delta-8, and they could potentially contain harmful substances.
 

How Long Does Delta-8 THC Stay in Your System?

As more individuals explore the effects of Delta-8 THC, a common question emerges: How long does it stay in our system?

Factors Dictating How Long THC Stays in the Body

The retention of Delta-8 THC in the body is influenced by several factors. The dosage plays a significant role; naturally, consuming larger amounts can lead to extended detection times. The frequency of use also matters. Regular users might find that Delta-8 THC metabolites remain in their system longer than those who indulge occasionally. The method of consumption, whether through edibles, vaping, or tinctures, can also impact how long the compound stays detectable. For instance, Delta-8 edibles might lead to longer detection windows compared to vaping. Additionally, the potency of the product and individual physiological factors, such as metabolism rate and body mass index (BMI), can influence retention.

Hydration and diet are often overlooked but can significantly affect how quickly Delta-8 THC is metabolized. Staying well-hydrated and consuming certain foods might expedite the process. On the flip side, since THC is fat-soluble, individuals with higher body fat percentages might retain the compound longer. Engaging in regular physical activity can potentially speed up the metabolism of THC, aiding in its quicker elimination from the body.

Detection Window for Delta-8 THC

The detection window for Delta-8 THC is still a topic of ongoing research. Preliminary findings suggest that its metabolites might remain in the system for a duration similar to Delta-9 THC. However, specific timelines can vary based on individual factors and the method of consumption.

After consumption, Delta-8 can be detected in the system for varying periods depending on the frequency of use:

Single Use: Up to 3 days.

Moderate Use (four times a week): Approximately 5–7 days.

Chronic Use (daily): Between 10–15 days.

Chronic Heavy Use (multiple times daily): Over 30 days.

Delta-8 THC Drug Testing Methods

Urine Tests: The most common method, urine tests can detect THC metabolites for varying durations based on usage frequency.

Blood Tests: These tests detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours. However, in cases of heavy use, THC can be detected up to 30 days later.

Saliva Tests: THC can enter saliva through secondhand smoke exposure. Its metabolites are present in saliva when you’ve personally consumed cannabis. Saliva tests often detect same-day use, but THC might be detectable up to 72 hours in frequent users.

Hair Tests: These tests can reveal cannabis use up to 90 days after consumption. After using cannabis, cannabinoids reach hair follicles via blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair shaft.

It’s essential to note that while Delta-8 THC is legal in many places, its close relation to Delta-9 THC means that it might still be detected in drug tests. Those who are subject to regular drug screenings should be cautious and well-informed about the potential implications of consuming Delta-8 THC.

How To Get Delta-8 Out of Your System

If you’re looking to reduce the amount of time Delta-8 THC stays in your system, consider the following:

Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins from the body, including THC metabolites.


Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in fiber can aid in digestion and the elimination of waste, which can include THC metabolites.

Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can potentially speed up the metabolism of THC, aiding in its quicker elimination from the body. However, it’s essential to note that exercising right before a drug test might temporarily raise THC levels in the bloodstream.

Avoid Re-consumption: Refraining from consuming any more Delta-8 THC will naturally allow the body to metabolize and eliminate existing THC.

Detox Kits: Some over-the-counter detox kits claim to cleanse the body of THC quickly. However, their effectiveness is debatable, and they might not be safe for everyone.

It’s essential to note that while these methods might help in reducing THC levels in the system, they do not guarantee a negative drug test result. The best way to ensure THC is entirely out of the system is to give it time. If you’re considering any detox methods, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional first.

Conclusion

Understanding how long Delta-8 THC stays in your system is crucial, especially if you’re facing potential drug tests. While Delta-8 THC offers a unique experience, it’s essential to be informed about its duration in the body and the factors that influence its retention. Always consume responsibly and buy your products from a trusted source and stay informed about the legal status and implications of Delta-8 THC in your region.
 

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