Delta 8: The Basics and FAQs

If you’re looking for a mellow, clear-headed high, Delta 8 THC might be the cannabinoid for you. This popular minor cannabinoid is quickly becoming a favorite for many cannabis enjoyers across the country due to its legality on a federal level and its less-intense effects compared to standard marijuana that contains high quantities of Delta 9. As you consider trying this minor cannabinoid, learn more about some basic facts about it and answers to commonly asked questions about Delta 8.

What Is Delta 8?

Delta 8 THC is a minor cannabinoid found in marijuana and hemp plants. While Delta 9 THC is found in large quantities in marijuana plants and is the most well-known type of THC, Delta 8 also occurs naturally but comes in much smaller concentrations. Typically, Delta 8 is derived from hemp plants, and companies often use a specialized process to isolate and extract Delta 8 cannabinoids from hemp. Like Delta 9, Delta 8 is psychoactive and should be used responsibly.

What Does Delta 8 Feel Like? Does Delta 8 Get You High?

If you’ve ever tried standard marijuana products that contain Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 has similar, but less intense, effects. Since Delta 8 is psychoactive, it will get you high, with many describing it as a more clear-headed high compared to the more “stoned” feeling of standard marijuana. Commonly reported effects of a Delta 8 high include:

  • Feelings of euphoria, comfort, calmness, and relaxation
  • Increased appetite
  • Relieved pain
  • Potentially improved concentration and focus

Oftentimes, a Delta 8 high is associated with an uplifting and positive experience where people feel at peace and happy. The reduced intensity of Delta 8 and its many positive effects make it a favorite among people who prefer a more mellow high. As a result, it’s often recommended for people who find that standard marijuana makes them anxious or paranoid.

Is Delta 8 Legal?

Due to the 2018 Farm Bill, Delta 8 is legal on a federal level, meaning companies can sell Delta 8 products as long as they contain less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC on a dry-weight basis. Though Delta 8 is legal on a federal level, some states have banned it. However, the product is still legal in North Carolina and many other states. Since Delta 8 regulations on a state level are constantly changing, it’s important to always check with your state and local governments about the legality of Delta 8 before you buy it.

How Long Does Delta 8 Take to Kick In?

The time it takes for Delta 8 to kick in depends on how you ingest it. Usually, Delta 8 gummies and other edibles can take between 30 minutes to an hour before you start feeling the effects, as your body’s digestive tract will need to digest the cannabinoid first. After you start feeling the effects, they may not reach their peak until around two to three hours after ingestion. Keep in mind that this time frame can vary based on your dosage, metabolism, age, and other factors.

Unlike Delta 8 gummies that have to be digested first, vaping or smoking Delta 8 will pass from your lungs into your bloodstream. This method of ingesting Delta 8 is much faster, with effects usually starting almost immediately after you puff on a Delta 8 vape or preroll. Usually, the peak effects of Delta 8 are felt around 30 minutes after you’ve last smoked or vaped. 

How Long Does Delta 8 High Last?

After you take Delta 8, you might also be wondering: how long does Delta 8 last? While the time it takes for Delta 8 to wear off can vary from person to person, a Delta 8 gummy’s high often lasts between three to eight hours. In contrast, a Delta 8 high from smoking or vaping will typically last around a couple of hours before it tapers off.

How Much Delta 8 Should a Beginner Take?

Though Delta 8 produces a milder high compared to Delta 9, you should still be conscious of how much you’re taking. At higher dosages, Delta 8 can deliver more intense effects than you might like, especially if you’re a beginner. As a result, beginners typically should start with a small amount. We typically recommend beginners start with a 5mg or 10mg gummy or other edible product to establish a baseline for the effects. If 10mg isn’t strong enough, you can work your way up to a 20mg edible. 

For those who prefer to smoke or vape Delta 8, the same basic principle applies. Start with only a couple of hits off of a preroll or a vape, and then wait a little while to feel the effects. Once you’ve reached your peak high (usually 30 minutes after smoking or vaping Delta 8), you may want to smoke or vape more if the effects aren’t strong enough to meet your preference. 

Turn to Carolindica for High-Quality Delta 8 Products

At Carolindica, we’re dedicated to providing our customers with the finest Delta 8 the Carolinas have to offer. Whether you’re looking for Delta 8 edibles, vape cartridges, tinctures, flower and prerolls, or capsules, we have a product for you. All of our products are hand-crafted at our facility just outside of Raleigh, NC, and we source only the highest-quality ingredient to ensure you receive an incredible product.

Review our full selection of Delta 8 products today. If you have any questions about our products or want a recommendation, please contact us.