Delta-8 THC gummies have exploded in popularity in recent years, offering a legal alternative to traditional marijuana edibles in many states. But what exactly is Delta-8 and how did these tasty treats come to be? Let’s dive into the fascinating history behind these buzzy cannabinoid confections.
The Discovery of Delta-8 THC
Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in cannabis plants, though only in very small amounts. It’s an isomer of the more well-known Delta-9 THC, with a slightly different chemical structure.
Delta-8 was first discovered and synthesized by researchers in 1965 who were studying the effects of various THC isomers. However, due to its low concentrations in cannabis, very little research was conducted on Delta-8 in subsequent decades.
The 2018 Farm Bill Changes the Game
For many years, Delta-8 remained an obscure, little-known cannabinoid. But that all changed with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and hemp-derived products federally.
The bill defined legal hemp as cannabis plants containing 0.3% or less Delta-9 THC. This created a loophole that allowed for the production and sale of Delta-8 products, since Delta-8 wasn’t explicitly prohibited.
Extracting and Concentrating Delta-8
While Delta-8 does occur naturally in cannabis, the concentrations are far too low to make direct extraction cost-effective. To get around this, producers use various chemical processes to convert CBD derived from legal hemp into Delta-8.
This allows for the production of Delta-8 distillates and isolates with high concentrations of the cannabinoid. These extracts can then be used to infuse products like strong thc gummies online.
The Rise of Delta-8 Gummies
Once Delta-8 extracts became more readily available, it didn’t take long for enterprising companies to start producing Delta-8 infused products, with gummies being an obvious choice. Gummies are discrete, convenient, and provide an easy way to dose.
The combination of the Farm Bill loophole, the novelty of a new legal cannabinoid, and the undeniable appeal of weed gummies quickly led to an explosion in the Delta-8 market. Brands proliferated and before long, Delta-8 gummies could be found in head shops, vape stores and cannabis dispensaries across the country.
An Uncertain Regulatory Future
Despite its rapid rise, the legal status of Delta-8 remains on shaky ground. The DEA has stated that synthetically-produced THC is still considered a Schedule I controlled substance, putting Delta-8’s legality into question.
Additionally, several states have moved to ban or regulate Delta-8 products due to lack of testing and safety standards. As of 2023, the fate of Delta-8 gummies still hangs in the balance as state and federal regulators grapple with how to handle this novel cannabinoid.
The Enduring Popularity of Delta-8
Despite the regulatory uncertainty, consumer interest in Delta-8 gummies shows no signs of waning. Many people report that Delta-8 provides a smoother, more clear-headed high compared to traditional THC products.
The lower potency and fewer side effects like paranoia and anxiety make Delta-8 an appealing option for those seeking a mellower buzz. As long as the demand persists, it’s likely that producers will continue to find ways to bring these popular edibles to market.
Delta-8 gummies may be a relative newcomer on the cannabis scene, but they’ve made a big splash in a short time. As the laws and regulations around Delta-8 continue to evolve, only time will tell what the future holds for these intriguing edibles. But for now, the Delta-8 gummy rocket shows no signs of slowing down.