Delta 8 is a synthetic derivative of the cannabis plant. It is not extracted but converted from cannabinoids such as CBD and THC. Delta 8 travels along the same pathways as other cannabinoids to bind with our endocannabinoid system. This allows delta 8 to be metabolized in much the same way as other traditional cannabinoids. In this article, we will be taking a closer look at delta 8 and how long it takes to assimilate into the body, depending on how you take it, and how much you take.
The difference between delta 8 and delta 9 can be subtle if delta 8 is made properly in a lab. This is crucial since delta 8 is a synthetic cannabinoid and is reportedly much milder than delta 9. Both derive from the cannabis plant, and both produce a high that is marked by hunger, alterations to perception, relaxation, and pain relief.
Most people who use delta 8 report that it is like delta 9 but lasts much shorter and is not as heavy on the mind or body. Unfortunately, some users have also reported experiences of intense anxiety, paranoia, and other side effects atypical for a milder version of THC. This is thought to be due to contaminants and other by-products associated with synthetic chemicals.
Both delta 8 and delta 9 are used in many of the same ways when it comes to consumption. Some people opt for edibles while others smoke, vape, or use it topically to achieve the desired results. Delta 8 has a similar chemical structure to delta 9, with slight alterations that make it less potent.
Delta 8 travels along the same pathways of our endocannabinoid system to affect our neurotransmitters which cause us to feel uplifted and euphoric from the release of dopamine. Much like delta 9 THC, delta 8 affects us the same way and makes us feel elated after ingesting and smoking it. Taking delta 8 with fat makes it easier for the body to absorb and assimilate.
If taking delta 8 on an empty stomach, users might experience a stronger high that lasts much shorter. Taking delta 8 with a fatty meal makes it absorb better but slower, making the high last longer. Like delta 9, delta 8 is excreted from the body mainly through urine and sweat. Synthetic compounds may or may not break down easier in the body, making delta 8 speculative in this regard.
Delta 8 acts like delta 9 in the body and is metabolized in much the same way. The catch here is that for delta 8 to be recognized as a legitimate cannabinoid by the body, it must be structurally similar to delta 9. Adulterated or poorly made delta 8 will either be discarded from the body without much effect or could be harmful and send you to the hospital.
Depending on how you take delta 8 and in what dosage will greatly determine how long it stays in your system. Other factors that have a direct effect over its metabolism in your system include age, your weight, whether you maintain an active lifestyle, the method of delivery, and how often you take delta 8.
If you happen to take supplements and other medications, this can determine how long delta 8 metabolizes in your body. The liver plays an important part in detoxifying your blood, and delta 8 will get metabolized in your liver as well. If you take medications that make the liver produce more enzymes to break down certain medications, you will find delta 8 to be cleared from the body quicker, though you might feel a stronger high as a result.
Being as how delta 8 is a synthetic cannabinoid, it is hard to say with certainty how it will act in the body since there are unforeseen variables at play. This is because delta 8 is a novelty cannabinoid, meaning it is uncommon and used as an alternative. This makes it somewhat unpredictable since virtually no studies have been conducted to determine how it is assimilated in the body.
Nobody knows because no studies have been done to determine delta 8’s long-term safety. It falls within the realm of experimentation and can have some negative consequences down the line. On that same note, it may also prove to be just as safe as delta 9 THC. The danger usually comes from delta 8 that has not been made properly.
Some products are made with dangerous chemicals and can feature by-products and other nasties that the body will react to in a negative way. In some states where delta 8 is the only legal option, users are willing to take the chance as they feel the benefits outweigh any risks. This may or may not be a wise decision.
It is unknown whether delta 8 accumulates in the body like CBD or if it clears the body without any residual effects. Each user will have to do their own research to determine whether delta 8 is something they are willing to risk their health on to feel high. Some medical patients also reside in states where cannabis is outlawed.
When it comes to how long delta 8 stays in your system, it is always good to remember that any time you eat something or take a medication, that it can affect the outcome of how your body will react to it and how long it will take for your body to metabolize it. Even though delta 8 is synthetic, your body will likely recognize it as a cannabinoid and treat it the same way.
Again, the exception here is mainly due to adulterated products that contain contaminants and other chemical byproducts. It is debatable whether or not delta 8 is safe to use for any length of time, though usage among users has shown that it is mostly safe unless it is contaminated. Always do your research before buying a delta 8 product.