Delta 8 Beginner’s Guide For 2023

Convenience, and the potential for some really awesome effects. These are just some of the reasons newbies are starting to try Delta-8 gummies.

In part also, because of claims that it has therapeutic benefits similar to CBD and “regular” THC without the intense psychoactive effects.

If you’re thinking about giving Delta 8 gummies a try, here’s a Delta 8 beginner's guide that will help.

But what exactly is Delta 8? How is it different than the more well-known cannabinoids CBD and THC? Is Delta 8 much different than Delta 9?

The purpose of our Delta 8 Beginner’s Guide is to explain the basics simply without jargon so that you can make your own decisions about trying and using it.

What is Delta-8?

Delta-8 THC, also referred to as D8, Δ8 THC, and Delta 8, is a rare cannabinoid found naturally in the hemp plant. Delta 8 THC is slightly psychoactive but is reported to be less intoxicating than Delta-9 THC.

They interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to promote homeostasis (A state of balance among all the body systems needed for the body to survive and function correctly). Each individual cannabinoid has unique properties, effects, and potential therapeutic benefits.

Unlike the better-known cannabinoids CBD and Delta 9 THC (the technical name for the THC that most are familiar with), very little Delta 8 THC is produced by the plant itself.

In terms of its effects, Delta 8 THC can probably best be described as a less potent, more uplifting, relaxing, and clear-headed version of Delta 9 THC.

However, because it occurs naturally in such small amounts, the delta-8 THC you find in CBD products is converted into Delta 8 THC in a lab.

What are the Potential Benefits of Delta 8?

According to the National Cancer Institute, Delta 8 THC has antiemetic (reduces nausea), anxiolytic (reduces anxiety), appetite-stimulating, analgesic (pain-relieving), and neuroprotective properties.

Based on the very limited research to date and feedback from current users, Delta 8 products may be an option worth considering for those:

• Seeking relaxation, yet uplifting effects from a natural product that is more potent than CBD but less potent than THC.
• Who has benefitted from using Delta 9 THC in the past but doesn’t want the intense high or stoned feeling that comes with it, or is experiencing paranoia and want to give up Delta 9 THC altogether.

It’s always highly recommended that you consult with your physician before using Delta 8, especially if you have medical conditions or take prescription medications. And do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What to look for in a Delta-8 gummy

If it’s your first time buying Delta 8 you may know know what to look for in a safe, great product. You should look for quality ingredients, a reputable company, and for independent lab testing (COA's). Here are some additional buying tips for beginners:

1. The ingredients: Commercially-purchased Delta 8 gummies will usually list Delta 8 THC and/or plant-derived Terpenes on the label.
   
   Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in plants, including cannabis that helps create the right environment for the synergistic effects of cannabis to occur, otherwise known as the entourage effect.
   Simply put, the entourage effect is the theory that the full spectrum of the cannabis plant comes together to enhance its effects.
2. THC content per gummy: The average gummy will have anywhere from 10-100mg of THC per gummy. It’s important to review the mg dosage of your gummy before consuming.
   
   The THC content should be clearly listed on both the purchasing website and the labeling. If this is your first time taking a Delta 8 gummy, you may also want to half or quarter your gummy to evaluate its unique effects for you.
3. Independent lab testing: Part of that trust comes from transparency. Independent lab testing for products should be freely available and accessible from any commercial site that you decide to purchase from.
   
   Independent lab testing is also known as Certificates of Analysis (COA): A COA from a third-party lab is a detailed document that displays the lab test results. The COA provides independent evidence showing the exact cannabinoid profile, potency, and THC content in a given product plus other test results, which show that the product is free from pesticides, heavy metals, and other impurities.
4. User reviews: Choose a brand that is established and has a great organic following. And always be sure to read through the product reviews, which should be on the product page. Delta 8 is a relatively new and emerging market. So choose a brand that you love and trust.

They’re federally legal and accessible in most states

Delta 8, for the time being, is federally legal. And many states allow you to purchase Delta 8 products in-store or online.

That makes this kind of edible is easy to access for those 18 and older in a state which permits Delta 8 sales and purchasing. Always review your state’s guidelines before purchasing any cannabis product.

Some Delta 8 Warnings To Be Aware Of

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not take Delta 8 if you are subject to a drug test.
• Do not use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or are taking any medications.
• Not intended for use by anyone under 18 years of age.
• Consult your physician before use.

Will Delta 8 Get You High?

Yes. Based on reports from users, using Delta 8 can indeed result in psychotropic effects similar to Delta 9 THC. Most report feeling a “mild, clear-headed high.” The intensity of those effects varies by person and also depends on how much you’ve consumed.

Assuming that you want to avoid the effect of feeling an intense “high”, it’s recommended that you take Delta 8 in very low amounts. This is especially true if you’re just starting out and not sure of what to expect.

Over time, you’ll get a better understanding of how your body reacts to Delta 8 and be better able to decide how much you should be taking for your desired results.

What are a couple of the Best Delta 8 Brands to shop online?

The recent surge in the popularity of Delta 8 products has resulted in an increase in the number of companies now selling them online.

While having more options is generally good for consumers, it can still be overwhelming and hard to know which brands are safe and reputable, and worth trying.

Here is our list of the best Delta 8 brands based on our research and feedback from users on the company's website and our own experience. As always, we encourage you to do your own research and only buy from reputable brands that make third-party lab reports readily available to you.

Hempjubilation.com is reader-supported. If you make a purchase using links on this page, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.

What does a Delta-8 high feel like?

Many users report feeling relaxed, calm, clear-headed, giggly, sleepy, and hungry, and a mellow high among other feelings. With both a body and a head high, Delta 8 seems to be a way more relaxed kind of buzz vs smoking flower/vape cartridge. Just like us most users recommended starting with smaller doses, like a half or quarter gummy.

More From Hemp Jubilation