The Effects of Delta-8 THC: How Does It Feel?

You may have seen delta-8 THC products at your local smoke shop or on social media, and wonder how this new “cannabis substitute” feels. How you ingest delta-8 will determine how quickly you feel delta-8 and how long the high lasts. But whether you take it sublingually, vape it, consume it in an edible, or drink it in syrup, delta-8 THC can give you a clear-headed, happy, and relaxing feeling. Read on to learn more.

How Long Does It Take To Feel Effects of Delta-8 Hemp THC?

If you’re starting your Delta-8 hemp THC journey, welcome to your hub of knowledge on everything D8. One of our most frequently asked questions is how long effects of Delta-8 hemp take to hit, and how it’s different from the effects of the more common delta-9 THC. Although there is little research on this, the If you’re starting your delta-8 hemp THC journey, welcome to your hub of knowledge on everything D8. One of our most frequently asked questions is, “how long does it take for the effects of delta-8 hemp to hit?” and, “how is the delta-8 THC high different from the effects of the more common delta-9 THC?” Although there is little research on this, the onset time of delta-8 hemp is similar to different methods of delta-9, but may take a little bit more time to kick in.

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What is Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 THC is a psychoactive substance found in very low levels in the hemp plant. Delta-8 THC can get you high, but it is less potent than its chemical cousin delta-9 THC, the active ingredient in cannabis.

Delta-8 can be helpful for treating insomnia or sleep disorders. It is as effective as delta-9 at controlling nausea and vomiting, but less likely to induce anxiety or paranoia.

Delta-8 THC can be vaped, consumed in edibles, delivered sublingually in a tincture or melt, or drunk in a syrup.

What Are the Effects of Delta-8 THC ?

THC (tetrahydrocannibinol) is the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. THC molecules bind to receptors in your body that control pain, mood, appetite, and other functions. The THC molecule can be arranged in many different ways. THC delta-9 is the most common form in cannabis. But like delta-9, delta-8 produces feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and potential pain relief.

Delta-8 THC can improve mood, soothe aches and pains, and help with insomnia and nausea. It can also help with insomnia, anxiety, and inflammation. The delta-8 THC feeling is less powerfully psychoactive than delta-9 and less likely to trigger panic or anxiety attacks.

Understanding How Much THC Is in Delta-8 THC

THC is very similar to a neurochemical called anandamide. Anandamide affects brain areas that influence pleasure, memory, thinking, concentration, movement, coordination, and sensory and time perception. THC activates these same receptors and can cause a sense of happiness and well-being.

In high doses or sensitive people THC can cause anxiety, panic, coordination and reaction issues, foggy thinking, and lethargy or “couch lock.”

Delta-8 THC does not activate cannabinoid receptors as strongly as delta-9. In its recommended dosages of 10mg to 40mg, it produces an elevated mood and moderate pain relief without the side effects sometimes associated with cannabis.

Will Delta 8 Get You High?

While delta-8 THC is not as potent as its better-known cousin, it will indeed get you high. The high will depend largely on the amount of delta-8 you ingest, your method of ingestion, and your tolerance for THC.

Delta-8 is about 50-67% as potent as delta-9 and has very similar effects. Users report that delta-8 produces a lighter high than delta-9. Concentration and focus remain sharp and energy levels consistent. Delta-8 is much less likely to produce anxiety, memory loss, or lethargy. And while it improves your appetite, delta-8 doesn’t give you intense munchies.

How Long Does Delta-8 THC High Last For?

Delta 8 effects length varies from person to person and is dependent on the size of the dose, the method of ingestion, and the individual’s tolerance to and experience with THC. Typically a delta-8 high will last from How much THC you should take depends on your cannabis experience. A first-time delta-8 user who has been using cannabis for years may feel comfortable with a larger dose than somebody who has never used any sort of THC. Generally, 10 mg is a good starting edible delta-8 dose for beginners, while beginning delta-8 vapers should take 1-3 puffs (1-5 mg) and wait a few minutes to judge the effect. The recommended quantity varies from person to person, but it is always best to be conservative until you know how your body reacts to delta-8.

How Long Does Delta-8 THC Stay In Your System?

While the delta-8 THC high lasts for a few hours, THC metabolites remain in your system past the delta-8 effects length. 80-90% of by-products are flushed from your system in about five days. Urine tests can detect metabolites for up to three days for first-time users, and for 5-10 days after regular use of delta-8 THC.

Hair follicle tests analyze a hair sample for signs of drug use, and can detect delta-8 metabolites for up to three months. If you are on probation or subject to random THC tests, avoid using delta-8 THC until your period of scrutiny ends.

At the End of the Day, How Much Delta-8 Should I Take?

How much THC you should take depends on your cannabis experience. A first-time delta-8 user who has been using cannabis for years may feel comfortable with a larger dose than somebody who has never used any sort of THC. 10 mg is generally a good starting edible delta-8 dose for beginners, while beginning delta-8 vapers should take 1-3 puffs (1-5 mg) and wait a few minutes to judge the effect. The recommended quantity varies from person to person, but it is always best to be conservative until you know how your body reacts to delta-8.

Tips on Using Delta-8 THC Safely and Responsibly

That delta-8 high feeling is fun and relaxing, and delta-8 THC is less likely to cause unpleasant side effects compared to high-potency cannabis or delta-9 THC extracts. But, as with any other psychoactive substance, you should use delta-8 responsibly. Here are some tips for THC beginners and first-time delta-8 newcomers who want to learn more about using delta-8 in a safe and careful fashion.

1) Always Purchase Your Delta-8 THC from a Safe Source

Because delta-8 can legally be sent through the mail, delta-8 products can be found in many smoke shops, bodegas, and other retail outlets. But because the federal government does not regulate delta-8, there is no way of knowing exactly what is in those packages that are labeled as delta-8 THC.

The “synthetic marijuana” craze led to multiple deaths and many unpleasant experiences when people ingested unidentified substances. You should purchase your delta-8 from licensed and ethical suppliers to ensure you get the true delta-8 THC feeling, not a bad trip from some toxic psychedelic.

2) Know How Much THC You Organism Can Safely Tolerate

Remember, you can always take more but you can’t take less. Start out with the recommended dosage and give it time to kick in. If that doesn’t work for you, take more delta-8 until you feel the desired effect. If you are using delta-8 edibles, most people start with around 10mg. You may find that a smaller or larger dose works best for you. When you find the dose that gives you a feeling of well-being and relaxation, stay around that dose. Instead of gobbling them wholesale, delta-8 edibles show their best medicinal efficacy with smaller doses spread through the day.

3) Space Out your Dosage

Delta-8 THC may be milder than delta-9, but if you go overboard with delta-8, you can still experience lethargy, confusion, and stupor. Luckily, delta-8 generally does not induce the racing heartbeat, paranoia, and sense of panic that too much delta-9 can cause.

You should wait at least 10 minutes between vape puffs and at least 2 hours after eating an edible before you increase your dosage. Remember that delta-8 provides a lighter, more clear-headed high. If you are looking for a psychedelic experience, you will probably be disappointed.

4) Avoid Driving While Under the Influence of THC

Never put yourself and others in harm’s way, especially if you’re under the influence of any mind-altering substances. Just because the delta-8 THC high can still leave you clear-headed doesn’t mean that you can drive without any impairment. THC can impact your driving even if you don’t feel it, just like you can feel sober and fail a breath test.

Delta-8 is not stupefying, but it is certainly relaxing. While a little relaxation is generally a good thing, delta-8 may also slow down your reflexes. Don’t drive or operate heavy machinery for several hours after ingesting delta-8 or delta-9 THC.

5) Find the Ingestion Method that Best Fits You

Everybody reacts differently to THC products and everybody wants a different delta-8 high feeling.

• For a quick pick-me-up that keeps you relaxed through a stressful day, try vaped delta-8 THC.
• For a convenient way of dosing you should try a sublingual delta-8 tincture.
• If you prefer drinking your delta-8 THC, try a delta-8 syrup.
• For long-lasting relaxation and pain relief, you should try delta-8 edibles.

Don’t feel afraid to try different methods of delta-8 ingestion until you find the right one. It’s your body, and you’re the best person to know what works for you.

Effects of Delta-8 THC on Different Types of Users

If you were wondering, “will delta-8 THC get you high?” the answer is yes. “How high?” depends on many factors, but one of the most important is your prior history with delta-9 THC. Delta-8 is fabulous for beginners and seasoned stoners, but each group should approach their maiden voyage differently.

Beginners

THC novices should start with small dosages and consume delta-8 THC in a comfortable and safe environment. Avoid mixing delta-8 with other substances. You want to find out how delta-8 affects you and how long the delta-8 high lasts in your body without interference from other chemicals.

If you’re feeling nervous, relax! A reasonable dose of delta-8 won’t do anything except make you feel better and soothe your body aches.

Cannabis Users

Although delta-8 THC is frequently sold as a cannabis substitute, delta-8 works differently than delta-9. Both forms of THC are chemically identical but delta-8 is less likely to give you that psychedelic stoned experience than the more potent delta-9.

If you want a more clear-headed high that lets you function, or pain relief and mood elevation without paranoia or anxiety, you will love delta-8. Pain relief with a delta-8 high lasts as long as cannabis and offers comparable relief.

THC Veterans

Seasoned stoners will find that delta-8 to be a useful addition to their THC toolbox. The delta-8 high feeling is lighter than regular cannabis, making delta-8 a great choice when you need to relax but stay focused. Delta-8’s pain relief, anti-nausea, and appetite-stimulating properties can make delta-8 a great help with chronic pain or depression. If you’re looking for a less intrusive but still relaxing high, delta-8 will make you feel good, not groggy.

Delta-8 THC vs Delta Delta-9 THC: Which Should You Choose?

For most people, delta-9 THC is simply “THC.” The most psychoactive chemical in cannabis, THC has been used for relief, relaxation, and recreation since prehistoric times. Delta-8 THC, on the other hand, is also found in hemp and cannabis but in smaller quantities. And while delta-8 and delta-9 have the same chemical formula, they are shaped differently and have slightly different effects. When it comes to delta-8 THC feeling, although its psychoactive effects are milder, its anti-nausea and pain-relieving properties are comparable to delta-9.

1) Effects

The delta-8 vs. delta-9 feeling might be best described as the difference between a light sparkling wine and high proof whiskey. Both have similar effects, but a glass of whiskey is going to have a much greater effect than an equal volume of wine. Both delta-8 and delta-9 can produce euphoria, relaxation, and increased appetite. But delta-8 is much less likely to cause confusion, anxiety, dysphoria, and other bad effects that are sometimes encountered with delta-9.

Delta-8 THC

The delta-8 high feeling produces euphoria, relaxation, and potential pain relief. Delta-8’s effects are milder than delta-9. You’re more likely to feel cheery and upbeat than to get giggling fits, and to feel calmer than to be couch locked. Many people find delta-8 helps them feel better at work whereas delta-9 leaves them too foggy-headed and self-conscious to function efficiently. Delta-8 also improves your thought process and helps to reduce memory loss.

Delta-9 THC

Delta-9 THC’s effects have been widely studied and delta-9 has clearly demonstrated positive effects on numerous conditions, including multiple sclerosis, nausea/emesis due to cancer chemotherapy, and pain relief. Delta-9 is well-known for its appetite-promoting and anti-inflammatory properties, and is also widely used recreationally for its euphoric and psychotropic effects. While many people love delta-9, some patients have experienced anxiety and panic, while others report that it leaves them too sedated to go about their daily business.

2) Product Availability

While availability can vary widely depending on your state and local regulations, both delta-8 and delta-9 THC are making their way to more markets every day. With marijuana reform, cannabis and delta-9 THC products have become increasingly available to customers. Because delta-8 THC is not federally scheduled, people who want to experience delta-8 THC effects can find delta-8 products online or in many bodegas, gas stations, and smoke shops.

Delta-8 THC

Delta-8 THC is not scheduled or banned by any federal agency and you can legally send delta-8 through the mail or carry it across state lines. As a result, delta-8 has become increasingly available at retail outlets where it is sold as a cannabis substitute. But while delta-8 is not subject to any federal regulation, a few states have regulated delta-8 or even banned it outright.

Delta-9 THC

While delta-9 THC is not federally legalized just yet, many states have decriminalized or legalized the sale and possession of marijuana. In many states, marijuana and THC products can be purchased in retail stores; while in others, marijuana is available with a prescription. But since delta-9 is still listed in US statutes as a Schedule 1 controlled substance, it cannot legally be shipped through the mail or carried across state lines.

3) Methods of Extraction

Many manufacturers extract delta-9 THC through supercritical CO2 extraction. Low-temperature CO2 under high pressure is forced through ground cannabis in a “supercritical” state that removes the delta-9 like chemical solvents, but much more safely.

Delta-8 THC extraction is impractical because delta-8 is found in such low quantities. Delta-8 is created when cannabidiol (CBD) is dissolved in glacial acetic acid — a concentrated form of vinegar’s active ingredient. The acid reshapes the CBD molecule into delta-8-THC.

Delta-8 THC

Delta-8 is a cannabinoid found naturally in cannabis and hemp, but typically only in very small amounts. Because the delta-8 extraction process would require an enormous amount of hemp to meet market demands, delta-8 is most commonly converted in a laboratory from delta-9-THC or CBD (cannabidiol). Conversion occurs through a process called isomerization that reshapes CBD and delta-9 molecules into delta-8. These added steps are one of the reasons delta-8 is more expensive than delta-9.

Delta-9 THC

Delta-9 THC has long been recognized as the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana (cannabis). As the first cannabinoid isolated by science, delta-9 THC has helped researchers discover cannabinoid receptors and taught us a great deal about how our body works. Since ancient times, harvesters have rubbed the THC-filled trichomes from cannabis buds to make hashish. Today, delta-9 THC is most commonly extracted from cannabis using low-temperature, high-pressure “supercritical” CO2.

4) Pricing

In general, delta-8 wholesale pricing is about 10-20% higher than delta-9. That’s a pretty big difference, especially when you consider the delta-8 price per gram, since delta-8 is considerably less potent per milligram compared to delta-9. But delta-9 is more widely available and easily extracted than delta-8. And while the market for delta-8 THC continues to grow, there is still far more demand for traditional delta-9 based products. These price differences may shrink as more people become aware of delta-8’s benefits.

Delta-8 THC

Hemp and marijuana contain very small concentrations of delta-8 THC, so extraction is an elaborate process. Most delta-8 available on the wholesale delta-8 market are produced from delta-9 or CBD. These extra steps raise delta-8’s price per gram.

Many people have found the relaxed, clear-headed delta-8 high is worth the expense. For uses like insomnia and pain relief, delta-8 THC is almost as potent as delta-9 and less likely to cause anxiety or confusion.

Delta-9 THC

Since the first Stone Age stoner threw hemp on fire and inhaled the smoke, we have taken advantage of delta-9 THC’s mind and mood-altering properties. Cannabis, hemp selected for higher delta-9 THC content, is grown and enjoyed around the world. Wider availability has made cannabis less expensive and easier to find more than ever. Billions of happy (and hungry) delta-9 THC fans can’t all be wrong and, sometimes, there’s just no substitute for tradition.

5) Legal Status

THC’s legal status varies by US location.

In four states (Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, and South Carolina), all forms of THC and CBD are illegal. Seven more states (Texas, Iowa, Wisconsin, Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Indiana) only allow CBD oil.

In most of the US, delta-8 THC is legal. But several legal marijuana states are not delta-8 legal states. For example, Alaska, Colorado, Vermont, and Washington all ban delta-8 THC. Check your state and local laws before ordering.

Delta-8 THC

Delta-8 THC is a chemical analog of delta-9 THC, a DEA Schedule 1 substance. The only difference between the two forms of THC is the position of a double carbon ring. Delta-8 THC has the ring in the 8th position, while delta-9 has it on the 9th. Because of that tiny difference, delta-8 THC is legal at the federal level. State and local laws vary regarding both delta-8 and delta-9 THC.

Delta-9 THC

While delta-9 THC is prohibited at the federal level, many states have legalized or decriminalized marijuana and marijuana products. To date, the federal government has tolerated these state-level reforms of marijuana laws, but you can still get in considerable trouble for shipping large quantities of cannabis across state lines on both a local and federal level. Many states that have legalized cannabis are not delta-8 legal states, so check your local regulations.

Effects of Delta-8 THC on Different Products

There are many different ways to enjoy delta-8 THC effects. You can take delta-8 THC under your tongue. You can enjoy edibles like delta-8 candies and gummies. You can vape your delta-8 THC or toss delta-8 syrup back with some soda. The method you choose will determine how long your delta-8 high will last and how long for delta-8 to kick in. Here is a closer look at some of the various delta-8 THC products.

Syrup

Syrups are a convenient and tasty way to enjoy a delta-8 THC high. Delta-8 THC syrup comes in measured single or double serving bottles. You simply pour out your dose, then mix with soda or the beverage of your choice.

Most people feel the effects around 20-30 minutes after ingesting delta-8 syrup, though these would vary from person to person. The high lasts up to 3-5 hours, depending on the quantity ingested and your metabolism.

Edibles

Generally, you’ll feel the effects from Delta-8 hemp edible in 1 to 1 ½ hours with full effects at around 2 hours. Of course, onset time can vary depending on how much food is in your stomach as well as your metabolism.

With edibles, effects will last much longer than vaping or smoking. Expect to feel ultra-relaxed for as long as 4-12 hours.

Sublingual

When taken sublingually (under the tongue to be absorbed through the mouth), effects will start to take place after 45 minutes to 1 hour with full effects in 1 ½ hours.

Be sure to hold the tincture or melt it under your tongue for 30-45 seconds before swallowing.

The effects could last for only 1 hour or even up to more than 5 hours when delta-8 hemp is taken orally or sublingually.

Vape

Vaping a delta-8 hemp THC cartridge will hit you with the feels more quickly than taking it orally. Expect effects to begin 5 to 10 minutes after a hit with full effects in 15 to 30 minutes. The delta-8 THC high will last about 1-2 hours with vaping. This makes vaping perfect for daytime use as it’s a more temporary way to relax and won’t put you out of commission for the rest of the day and night.

The Bottom Line

Now you know more about delta-8 THC and the various ways you can enjoy that delta-8 THC feeling. If you want to try delta-8 for yourself, check out Activ8. Activ8’s syrups, shots, and gummies let you choose how long you wait for delta-8 to kick in, and how long you want your delta-8 experience to last. Whatever you choose, Activ8’s products will surely put a smile on your face.

FAQs

How Long Do Delta 8 Gummies Take To Kick In?

While vaporized delta-8 THC gets into your bloodstream from your lungs almost immediately, gummies must first be metabolized before the delta-8 THC works its way into your system. Delta-8 Gummies can take anywhere from 30 – 90 minutes to start working. But while vaporized delta-8 only lasts between 90 minutes to 4 hours, delta 8 gummies stay in your body and can keep working their magic for up to 8 hours.

How Long Do Delta 8 Gummies High Last?

The length of time you will feel high after eating delta-8 gummies depends on your digestive system, your tolerance, how quickly your body breaks down cannabinoids, and many other factors. Most people report that the high from delta 8 gummies lasts between 3 and 8 hours, with peak effects coming between 2.5 and 4 hours after ingestion. The more delta-8 gummies you take at once, the longer the experience will last.

How Many Hits of Delta 8 Vape to Get High?

Most people start out with 1 to 5 puffs, but seasoned cannabis users might need up to 10 puffs to achieve the desired effect. Delta-8 THC, a legal cannabis substitute, is 33-50% less potent than the delta-9 THC in cannabis, so delta-8 vape effects may seem mild if you are accustomed to regular cannabis vaping or smoking. It’s much harder to vape your way into a panic attack or a stoned stupor with Delta-8 THC.

How Long Do Edibles Take To Kick in Empty Stomach?

You will generally start to feel the effects of delta-8 edibles within 30-60 minutes if you take them on an empty stomach. The effects will gradually increase over the next 2-4 hours then fade slowly over the next hour or two. Delta-8 THC does not get the sudden intense peaks and psychedelic effects you can get from cannabis edibles. Instead, you get a mild come-up to an elevated mood followed by a gradual descent.

What States is Delta-8 Legal?

Delta-8 legal states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Washington D.C.

Delta-8 THC legal status unclear: Arizona, California, Mississippi.

Delta-8 THC regulated like recreational cannabis: Connecticut, Michigan.

Delta-8 THC banned: Alaska, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, New York, Nevada, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Vermont, Utah, Washington.