Delta-8 THC is perhaps the second most popular psychoactive cannabinoid in the world, after delta-9 THC, of course. Its soothing, relatively mild high is extremely versatile and easy to enjoy at any time of day, while it’s conveniently simple to purchase online in a wide array of tantalizing product types, strains and more.
If you’re ready to give delta-8 a try, then you’re going to want to know some of the basic “rules” ahead of time. These rules aren’t hard to follow, as they exist merely to make sure that you enjoy this cannabinoid as much as possible, even as a total beginner.
Do: Choose the Right Manufacturer
First off, know that not all delta-8 products are created equally. Each company has their own quality standards, and so you’ll want to research a brand before buying from them to know you’re getting the highest-quality, purest delta-8 that there is. Look through reviews, and even read up on a company’s manufacturing processes through their website.
Do: Look for Lab Reports
Before buying any hemp product, always look through the company’s website for third-party lab reports. This indicates that the product you’re about to buy has been lab-tested by a state-authorized third-party laboratory, for purity, cannabinoid and terpene profiles, safety, federal compliance and more. Without these lab reports, you have no way of even knowing that the delta-8 is legitimate.
Do: Consider the Strain (if Applicable)
If you’re going with a delta-8 product type that comes in a selection of strains, such as flower or vape cartridges, then consider each strain carefully, since each one can produce surprisingly different effects based on its terpene profile. Indica strains, for instance, tend to be more mellowing, while some sativa strains can make you feel motivated and uplifted. This is important since you may want a strain for bedtime, and so a certain sativa strain would be a bad choice.
Do: Know What Delivery Method You’re Working With
Delta-8 comes in different delivery methods, affecting how it absorbs into the body. Delta-8 products that are inhaled, such as flower and vapes, can kick in within just minutes, with a potent high that lasts for a couple of hours. Edibles, like gummies, can take up to 2 or even more hours to fully take effect, with milder effects and a stronger body high for up to 8 hours. So, needless to say, you’ll want to consider your delivery method wisely.
Do: Start Out Easy
Delta-8 is intoxicating, and like with any intoxicating substance, you’ll want to go slow to develop your tolerance. As a beginner, it’s easy to get too high, and while this isn’t necessarily dangerous, it can be overwhelming since you’re not used to the sensation that psychoactive cannabinoids provide. So, start out by following the directions on the product’s label to know that you’re taking the appropriate amount for a beginner, and increase the amount you take only as desired and tolerated.
Don’t: Be Impatient While It’s “Kicking in”
Because it can take a little while for certain products to kick in, you want to wait before taking more because you feel like your last dose didn’t do anything. This is especially true of edibles, which can take hours before you feel any effects, depending on how much you’ve eaten prior especially. Wait the appropriate amount of time before considering that you need to take more of the same product.
Don’t: Drive After Taking Delta-8 THC
Delta-8 is an intoxicating substance, and what that means is that you cannot drive while under the influence of it, under any circumstances. While delta-8 is federally legal, driving while intoxicated on any substance is not, and can lead to harsh penalties. Besides that, it's dangerous because it can cause impairment.
Don’t: Take Delta-8 if You Have an Upcoming Drug Test
Delta-8 THC is metabolized by an enzyme known as “THC-COOH” in the body. This enzyme also breaks down delta-9 THC, the key component of marijuana. Drug tests that are urine-based are looking for traces of THC-COOH, not traces of marijuana. Basically, this means that taking delta-8 puts you at a good risk of failing a drug test. So, if you do have a drug test coming up for your employment or other aspect of your livelihood, it’s not worth risking a failed test result when you can just wait until another time to try the cannabinoid.
Don’t: Assume All Psychoactive Cannabinoids are Alike
Even if you’ve tried other psychoactive cannabinoids like delta-9 THC, delta-10 THC, THC-O, etc., delta-8 THC, like all cannabinoids, is one of a kind. Its high is unique in that it offers more soothing effects that are milder than those of delta-9, and so it’s absolutely worth trying. You may very well find that delta-8 is the perfect cannabinoid for your needs, or that it serves a unique purpose in your routine alongside other cannabinoids that you’ve already incorporated into your rotation.
Follow These Tips for a Successful Delta-8 Experience
The key to getting the most enjoyment out of your delta-8 session is to know the basic do’s and don’ts that ensure you end up with the perfect product for your needs and take it in the most responsible and satisfying way possible. Now that you know the common rules with delta-8, you can find the perfect product for your needs at Top Shelf Hemp Co.