what is DELTA-8 THC By YOUTH CONNECTIONS STAFF
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elta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is slightly less potent than the common Delta-9 THC (what everyone is familiar with), but its psychological and physiological effects are similar, albeit to a lesser degree. It is commonly known as “weed light.” It has become popular because of its similarity to THC, the main compound in marijuana that gets users high. While it is supposedly “milder” than Delta-9, that refers to the mind-altering effects, not the safety of the substance. While it is thought to be less potent, it doesn’t make it a safer or less addictive alternative to other marijuana products. WILL DELTA-8 GET USERS HIGH? Yes, but not as high as common Delta-9 THC. Delta- 9 THC can cause negative effects for some, including paranoia or anxiety, so a less potent drug may be desirable. Side effects may be similar to those of Delta-9. It is important to note that Delta-8 has not been studied enough to determine all the effects – short and long-term – it has on the body and brain. Many extractors are ramping up Delta-8 production to meet the new demand and then shipping it all over the country. One just needs to research the internet to find all sorts of products available with
Delta-8, none of which are regulated for safety or their claims of health benefits tested. IS DELTA-8 LEGAL? The legality of Delta-8 is fuzzy. It can be extracted from either cannabis or hemp, but more commonly from hemp, which is why it is sold in many states where marijuana is illegal. And because hemp can be legally grown and used for extractions all over the United States, this makes Delta-8 legal in states where Delta-9 is illegal…sometimes. It is hard to tell if it was created from hemp or by modifying cannabidiol (CBD), which would make the substance illegal. IS IT SAFE FOR YOUTH? No. No amount of THC is safe for youth, even if the potency is roughly half of what is in the marijuana on the market. The risk of addiction and abuse remain the same as marijuana. It is essentially marijuana in another form. Consequences for using Delta-8 can include possible arrests due to unknown legality, lower grades or poor school performance, and failed drug screens. There is still too much unknown about Delta-8, including its legality, potency and long-term effects. ■ youthconnectionscoalition.org
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YC MAGAZINE
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June 2021
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