Can You Get High from Delta 8 Hemp Flower?

Delta-8 THC has gained significant popularity in recent years, especially as a legal alternative to Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana. One common question is whether you can get high from Delta-8 hemp flower and, if so, how the experience differs from traditional cannabis.

This article will dive into everything you need to know about the effects of Delta-8 hemp flower, including how it interacts with your body, its psychoactive properties, and how it compares to other cannabinoids.

What is Delta-8 THC?

Overview of Delta-8 THC

Delta-8 THC, short for Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in both hemp and cannabis plants. It is closely related to Delta-9 THC, which is the compound responsible for the classic «high» associated with marijuana. However, Delta-8 occurs in much smaller quantities than Delta-9 in natural cannabis plants, which means it often needs to be extracted and concentrated to create usable products like hemp flower, oils, and edibles.

Although Delta-8 THC shares a similar molecular structure with Delta-9 THC, there is a slight difference in the location of a double bond on the carbon chain. This seemingly minor structural variation leads to notable differences in the way each cannabinoid affects the body, with Delta-8 producing a more subtle and less intense psychoactive experience than Delta-9 THC.

How is Delta-8 THC Different from Delta-9 THC?

Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC are isomers, meaning they have the same chemical formula but a different structure. The double bond in Delta-8 occurs on the eighth carbon chain, while in Delta-9, it is located on the ninth carbon chain. This small difference affects how the compounds bind to the cannabinoid receptors in your brain and body.

Delta-9 THC binds more strongly to CB1 receptors in the brain, resulting in a more potent and intense psychoactive experience. Delta-8, on the other hand, binds more weakly to these receptors, leading to a milder, less overwhelming effect. Many users of Delta-8 report feeling a gentle, calming high, without the anxiety, paranoia, or strong euphoria that some people experience with Delta-9.

The Psychoactive Properties of Delta-8 Hemp Flower

Can Delta-8 Hemp Flower Get You High?

Yes, Delta-8 hemp flower can get you high, but the experience is typically less intense than the high from Delta-9 THC. When you smoke or vaporize Delta-8 hemp flower, the cannabinoid is absorbed into your bloodstream, where it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex network of receptors that regulate various bodily functions, including mood, pain perception, appetite, and more.

When Delta-8 binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain, it produces a psychoactive effect that is often described as more mellow and relaxing than Delta-9 THC. Users typically report feelings of calm, focus, and slight euphoria, without the same level of intoxication or impairment that can accompany stronger THC products.

How Delta-8 THC Interacts with the Body

The human body has two primary types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are mainly located in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are found in the immune system and peripheral organs. Delta-8 THC, like Delta-9, primarily binds to CB1 receptors, which are responsible for regulating psychoactive effects.

However, Delta-8 THC’s weaker binding affinity for CB1 receptors leads to a less pronounced high. This is why Delta-8 is often referred to as a «lighter» or «clearer» version of Delta-9 THC, providing a more functional and manageable high that allows users to remain present and focused while still enjoying the psychoactive benefits.

Common Effects of Delta-8 THC

Users of Delta-8 THC report a variety of effects, many of which are similar to Delta-9 THC but milder in intensity. Some of the most common effects include:

1. Relaxation: Delta-8 THC is known for its calming properties, making it a popular choice for those who want to unwind or relieve stress without becoming overly sedated.
2. Euphoria: While the euphoria from Delta-8 is less intense than Delta-9, users often feel a mild sense of happiness or contentment, similar to the effects of a low dose of cannabis.
3. Mental Clarity and Focus: One unique aspect of Delta-8 is that it often enhances mental clarity and focus, allowing users to feel clear-headed while still enjoying a mild psychoactive experience. This can make Delta-8 THC a good option for daytime use.
4. Mild Euphoria: Delta-8 provides a sense of well-being and gentle uplift, without the intense euphoria or the «couch-lock» effect associated with high doses of Delta-9 THC.
5. Appetite Stimulation: Like other cannabinoids, Delta-8 THC can stimulate appetite, often referred to as «the munchies,» though to a lesser degree than Delta-9.
6. Reduced Anxiety: Unlike Delta-9 THC, which can sometimes cause anxiety or paranoia in high doses, Delta-8 is reported to have anxiety-reducing effects, making it a better option for those who are sensitive to THC.

How Long Does the High from Delta-8 THC Last?

The duration of the high from Delta-8 THC depends on various factors, including the method of consumption, the dosage, and the individual’s metabolism. When smoked or vaporized, the effects of Delta-8 THC typically begin to take effect within 10–15 minutes and can last for 2–4 hours.

Ingesting Delta-8 through edibles or tinctures may result in a longer-lasting high, as these methods take more time to be processed by the body. In such cases, the effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in and may last for 4–8 hours.

Comparing Delta-8 THC to Delta-9 THC and CBD

Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC

The main difference between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC is the intensity of the psychoactive experience. While Delta-9 THC can produce a strong, euphoric high, Delta-8 THC provides a milder, more controlled experience. This makes Delta-8 a popular choice for users who want to enjoy the benefits of THC without becoming overly intoxicated.

Delta-9 THC is also more likely to cause negative side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and rapid heart rate, especially in higher doses. In contrast, Delta-8 THC is less likely to cause these side effects, making it a better option for those who are sensitive to the effects of THC.

Delta-8 THC vs. CBD

CBD (cannabidiol) is another cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis plants, but unlike Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, it is non-psychoactive. This means that CBD does not produce any «high» or intoxicating effects. Instead, CBD is known for its therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, anti-inflammatory properties, and sleep support.

While both Delta-8 THC and CBD interact with the endocannabinoid system, they do so in different ways. Delta-8 THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain to produce a psychoactive effect, while CBD interacts more with CB2 receptors, influencing bodily processes without causing intoxication.

Some users prefer to combine Delta-8 THC and CBD for a balanced experience that provides both the psychoactive benefits of THC and the therapeutic effects of CBD.

Is Delta-8 THC Legal?

Legal Status of Delta-8 THC

Delta-8 THC occupies a legal gray area in many places. Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp and its derivatives, including cannabinoids like Delta-8 THC, are federally legal as long as they contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. However, some states have introduced their own regulations that restrict or ban the sale and use of Delta-8 THC products.

States such as Alaska, Colorado, and New York have specifically banned Delta-8 THC, while others like Texas and Florida continue to allow its sale and use. It’s important to check your local laws before purchasing or consuming Delta-8 THC products.

Delta-8 Hemp Flower and Drug Tests

While Delta-8 THC may be legal in many states, it can still show up on drug tests. Most drug tests are designed to detect THC metabolites, and Delta-8 is broken down in the body in a similar way to Delta-9 THC. This means that using Delta-8 hemp flower can result in a positive test for THC, even though Delta-8 is less psychoactive.

How to Use Delta-8 Hemp Flower

Smoking or Vaporizing Delta-8 Hemp Flower

One of the most common ways to use Delta-8 hemp flower is by smoking or vaporizing it. When smoked or vaped, the effects of Delta-8 THC are felt almost immediately, making it easy to control your dosage. Smoking and vaporizing also allow the user to experience the full flavor and aroma of the hemp flower.

Dosage Recommendations for Delta-8 THC

When using Delta-8 hemp flower, it’s important to start with a low dose, especially if you are new to THC or are sensitive to its effects. Because Delta-8 is less potent than Delta-9, you may need a slightly higher dose to feel the desired effects. However, it’s best to start with a small amount and gradually increase your dosage as needed to avoid unwanted side effects.

Conclusion

Delta-8 hemp flower can indeed get you high, but the experience is generally milder and more manageable than Delta-9 THC. The psychoactive effects of Delta-8 THC carts include relaxation, mild euphoria, and mental clarity, making it an appealing option for those who want to enjoy the benefits of THC without the overwhelming intensity of traditional cannabis.

However, it’s important to be aware of the legal status of Delta-8 in your area, as well as the potential for it to show up on drug tests. By understanding how Delta-8 THC interacts with your body and using it responsibly, you can enjoy a balanced and enjoyable high from Delta-8 hemp flower.