Delta 8 THC carts have become quite a hot topic amongst cannabis connoisseurs. But, what exactly is delta-8 THC, and how do these vape cartridges differ from delta-9 THC? In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about these trendy new vape products.
The New Trend: What Are Delta 8 THC Carts?
Delta-8 THC carts are just like any other THC vape cartridges on the market. THC cartridges are disposable containers that contain pre-filled THC oil. Delta-8 THC carts are vape cartridges that contain a mixture of delta-8, the oil, and terpenes found in the cannabis plant. The oil-filled delta 8 carts attach to a vaporizer allowing a user to experience a more clean and smooth smoke.
Benefits of Using Delta 8 Cartridges
The process involved in vaping is a little more complex. Delta-8 THC carts are designed for vaporizers that contain an atomizer, mouthpiece, battery, and THV cartridge chamber. The concept is simple; A rechargeable battery is used to heat the atomizer, converting the THC oil present in a vape cartridge to a vapor that its user inhales. Now there are some benefits that come with using vape cartridges over smoking a regular blunt these include:
- The days of struggling to roll a joint are over! Just pull out your vaporizer, attach a delta-8 cart, and enjoy!
- A cleaner smoke which is a lot less harsh on the lungs.
- Delta-8 carts will fit most 510-thread batteries making it easy to acquire.
- Delta-8 carts can come in various doses so you can pick and choose how strong of a hit you’d like.
What is the difference between Delta 8 Carts and Delta 9?
Delta-8 THC is another cannabinoid that's been making its way across the US. This chemical compound is found in trace amounts amongst both the Sativa and hemp varieties. Now, you'll see that people often compare delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol to that of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol. So, what exactly is the difference between the two, and why should we care?
Delta-8 THC is what the scientific community refers to as a positional isomer which means the chemical structure of delta-8 is similar to that of delta-9 THC. That being said, there are a few minor differences between the two. Firstly, it's important to mention that the THC we know (delta-9) is responsible for the psychoactive effects we commonly associate with marijuana usage. Its a lot more heavily studied and researched by the scientific community as it is produced naturally by the marijuana plant. On the other hand, researchers believe that the metabolic activity of the cannabis plant does not produce delta-8! Instead, it is a breakdown product of delta-9 THC.
Why Are Delta 8 THC Vapes the New Trend?
Early in 2018, the US Farm Bill legalized both the production of hemp and hemp-based cannabinoids. By this definition, any cannabinoid derived from the hemp plant was considered legal under US law. Of course, this excluded the psychoactive compound THC, which is irrelevant as hemp plants tend to contain THC levels below 0.3%. As we mentioned above, delta 8 carts contain delta-8 THC derived from the cannabis plant. This cannabinoid is only found in trace amounts within the hemp plant, making it nearly impossible to extract for recreational purposes. That being said, the delta-8 seen in THC vape cartridges are actually synthesized from another well-known cannabinoid, CBD, which is derived from hemp. On a final note, I must mention that all industrial hemp legal forms in the USA are derived from Indica. As such, the THC found in delta-8 carts comes from Indica plants and not Sativa.
Not sure if delta-8 carts are right for you? Check out CBD cartridges instead!
Say Bye-Bye to that Anxiety: The Awesome Delta 8 THC Effects
Theoretically, delta-8 THC is the product formed post-degradation of delta-9 THC, so it's going to have some level of psychoactive effects, but they aren't as potent as that of delta-9 THC. But what happens if you use delta-8 THC carts? In one study done on mice, the consumption of delta-8 leads to an increase in appetite, aka the mice got the munchies. This summarizes what one might experience when using delta 8 THC carts.
If you're a cannabis user who tends to experience paranoia or anxiety when using regular THC vape cartridges, then the good news is that the delta-8 THC vape cart is perfect for you! This is because when using a delta-8 vape cart, you'll find that the high is more soothing and relaxing. In fact, those who use delta 8 vape cartridges regularly report feeling a lot more clear-headed and focused when compared to using delta-9 THC vape cartridges.
The Delta 8 THC High: So will these THC Vape Cartridges Get You High?
The good news is that a delta-8 THC cartridge does indeed get you high. But, as we mentioned above, the high is a lot less intense than the traditional THC. Its been reported that a user may begin to feel the effects of delta-8 within 2-3 minutes after using a THC vape cart. However, the onset of a high can vary depending on what delta-8 product you use. So, the next time you’re at your local dispensary make sure you check out the delta-8 THC carts.
