THC delta-8 is one of more than 100 cannabinoids produced in the Cannabis sativa L. plant, but it is not found naturally in significant quantities. Both delta-8 and CBD are cannabinoids, but delta-8 has more in common with delta-9 THC than with CBD. Unlike CBD, delta-8 produces psychoactive effects.
Both hemp and marijuana are types of cannabis plants, but marijuana produces delta-9-THC and hemp doesn't. Cannabis is illegal at the federal level because of its delta-9 THC content, as established by the Federal Controlled Substances Act, but each state follows its own laws regarding medical and recreational use. This means that delta-8 is mainly made by synthetically converting cannabidiol (CBD) or delta-9 THC into delta-8 THC, which is illegal. Both Alamo Botanicals and Archie's say there is a demand for Delta 8 for recreational purposes and to treat physical ailments.
The most common form of THC in cannabis plants is delta-9-THC, which is almost identical to delta-8-THC in its chemical structure. However, recent warnings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration state that delta-8 is a potentially dangerous drug that has caused thousands of accidental poisonings. While delta-8 THC is reported to produce less potent effects than delta-9, more research is needed to better understand the potential side effects of this compound. The state of Texas recognized the legal loophole and subsequently added Delta 8 to the state's list of controlled substances in Schedule I, declaring it illegal.
Delta-8 THC is a psychoactive and intoxicating cannabinoid that is synthetically produced as a by-product of CBD or delta-9 THC. Scientific research and clinical trials on delta-8 THC are lacking, and most of its potential benefits depend on marketing claims. Because it is naturally produced in such small quantities, the delta-8 THC found in commercial products is usually made synthetically from CBD or delta-9 THC. However, keep in mind that since the delta-8 is synthetically manufactured and not well regulated, there are safety issues.
James said that Delta 8, which is found naturally in the hemp plant, cannot be extracted in quantities high enough for any “significant industrial use.” Delta-8 THC is one of more than 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis sativa plants, but it is not present at significant levels. Delta-8 THC is one of more than 100 cannabinoids naturally produced by the cannabis plant, but it is not found in significant quantities in the cannabis plant.