What is Delta 8 and Should You Trust It?

Girl eating Delta 8 gummy. Image for Delta 8 consumer blog.

What is Delta 8?

Delta 8 THC is essentially the hemp-derived, more accessible cousin of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly referred to as THC. Unlike its more psychoactive counterpart, Delta 8 is not found in large quantities in the cannabis sativa plant.

What makes Delta 8 and other alternative cannabinoids stand out is how easily they can be extracted from hemp through the use of solvents. It is a simple process to create compliant products that boast similarly psychoactive properties as those products found in states where Delta-9 THC is recreationally or medically legalized, so the market has boomed since their introduction.

Delta 8 versus Delta 9

The largest benefit of using Delta 8 gummies, disposables, and flower is that it is legal. Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, any THC products that contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC are legal, even in states where recreational and medical cannabis is still illegal. The alternative cannabinoid market boomed thanks to the passing of this bill, flooding local smoke shops and ecommerce websites with all kinds of goodies. Everywhere you look, there are new cannabinoids popping up, from THC-O and Delta 10 to HHC and even one called THC-JD. There are a ton of products out there, but basically every single one is going to be less potent than your standard Delta-9. Despite being weaker overall, many of these cannabinoids are still pretty strong, so even regular smokers can benefit.

What are the best delta 8 gummies?

Now this is more of a subjective question, as Delta 8 gummies (and those made from other cannabinoids) tend to work differently from person to person. However, there are a few things that you should look out for when faced with an array of choices.

Third-Party Testing

Check that there is a QR code on the packaging of whatever product you are purchasing that takes you to the Certificate of Analysis (CoA). These certificates are the results of the product's third-party testing, proving what cannabinoids and trace chemicals it contains. This is a crucial aspect of any Delta 8 THC gummies, disposables, and flower, since it keeps companies transparent about what is going into their products.

Quality Packaging

Do NOT buy Delta 8 THC products in non-descript, generic packaging. This may seem like a strange tip, but think about it. A boring and cheap package does not bode well for what lies within. This is just lazy product design, which makes you question whether the product itself is actually worth it. Another packaging aspect to watch out for is whether the packaging can be found en masse through a wholesale site, like Alibaba. Garage chemists can make "Delta 8" products that could be potentially harmful and load them into professional-looking packages and sell them as legitimate products. Avoid getting tricked by these fake brands by sticking to manufacturers that are well-known and transparent.