Delta-8 THC is a cannabinoid that has gained a lot of attention over the last few years because of its resemblance to delta-9 THC – more commonly known as “THC”.
Some consumers of delta-8 refer to it as “D-8”, and while the effects of the cannabinoid have similar effects to regular THC, it is much less potent.
However, some D-8 consumers don’t completely understand the compound which causes them to wonder whether it is actually natural or synthetic.
This can also be a worry due to the high levels of danger that synthetic cannabinoids possess.
What is a synthetic cannabinoid?
Synthetic cannabinoids have the ability to stimulate the endocannabinoid system just like natural cannabinoids.
However, synthetic cannabinoids are manufactured in a lab and are completely artificial.
And while they can look similar to natural cannabis products, they can be extremely hazardous and have unpredictable effects on the mind and body.
Two of the most common synthetic cannabinoids are known as “Spice” and “K2”, which were considered to be “legal highs” a number of years ago, but have now been criminalised in the UK.
Read: Legal Cannabis Reduces Synthetic Cannabinoid Poisonings, New Study Finds
What is Delta-8?
Delta-8 THC is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis.
It is structured similarly to THC, but differs ever so slightly. Delta-8 has a double bond at the eighth position on the carbon chain, and delta-9 THC has it in the ninth position.
The process of producing delta-8, in most cases, involves extracting CBD from hemp plants and then adding acid into the solution which will form a substance that contains delta-8 and delta-9 THC only.
But due to the fact that the production of delta-8 needs human intervention, some people believe it to be artificial.
Is it natural or synthetic?
Delta-8 is a cannabinoid naturally found in the cannabis plant. For this reason, it can’t be synthetic.
Along with delta-8, there are dozens of natural cannabinoids such as delta-9 THC, CBD, CBDA, CBN, CBG, and CBDV to name a few.
While these cannabinoids still interact with the endocannabinoid system, they do not have the same psychoactive effects as THC.
The problem surrounding delta-8, however, is obtaining large amounts of it. The process of extracting D-8 directly from hemp involves an ungodly amount of cannabis plant material and is also extremely expensive for producers.
This is the reason why many producers choose to extract it through the synthesis of CBD.
So, while it may sound artificial on the surface. It’s not. Many consumers consider it to be a good option for those searching for the potential benefits of THC without getting too high.
Many consumers believe that delta-8 makes them feel less anxious and paranoid which, on the other hand, regular THC may induce.
Is delta-8 legal in the UK?
While delta-8 may not be as potent as regular THC, it remains illegal in the UK and most countries in Europe.
D-8 is a THC analogue and has intoxicating effects. For that reason, it is considered a Class B drug.
However, with a growing number of people in the UK becoming more open to the consumption of cannabis-derived products and with the increasing awareness of cannabis helping with medical conditions, we may see a change in the legislation sometime soon.
Read: Where To Buy Delta-8 THC In The UK
Review: Delta-8 Moon Rock And Hash From Budmother
