Delta-8 is the most common of the non-psychoactive cannabinoids found in cannabis, and it is legal in Florida. Delta-8 is not considered to be an illegal substance under state law because it does not have psychoactive compounds.
However, there are some forms of Delta-8 that may be illegal if they contain any amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that exceeds the 0.3% limit.
Furthermore, Delta-8 has been found in studies to have benefits for people with anxiety disorders and chronic pain conditions.
This blog post will explore what we know about Florida law as it relates specifically to Delta-8 and whether or not there are any loopholes that might be used by those who want access to this compound without risking arrest or criminal penalties. Click here for an in-depth article about the legality of Delta-8 in Florida and whether you can buy it or not.
What Is Delta-8?
Delta-8 THC is one of the many cannabinoids that are found in cannabis. The compound is very similar to Delta-9 THC, the main cannabinoid in cannabis that gets you high.
The chemical structures between Delta-8 and Delta-9 are very similar as well as their names: Delta-9’s scientific name is Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or just Delta-9; Delta-8’s short name is Delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol or just Delta 8. Both compounds can produce feelings of euphoria, happiness, sedation, and relief from symptoms. However, they differ in how they affect your body.
Delta-9 THC will have a significant effect on the body but Delta 8 is not as effective as D9.
Delta 8 is found in small quantities in a majority of cannabis strains and is the second most prevalent compound because it works well with a wider variety of plant genetics. It has been studied extensively probably due to its chemical composition that is nearly identical to Delta 9.
What Are The Effects Of Delta-8?
Consumers reported that Delta-8 enhanced the effects of cannabis, making it more potent. It was considered to have anti-anxiety and pain-relieving effects only somewhat less than that of THC.
Delta-8 also has a few unique psychoactive properties in its own right, adding some distinct effects to those present within Delta-9 THC products. These reported effects are similar to both THC and CBD but much milder in nature compared to either of the two cannabinoids.
- Reduces anxiety
- Reduces depression
- Improves immune system (not scientifically proven yet)
- Antioxidant – can reverse damage caused by oxidation (not scientifically proven yet)
How Does Delta-8 Work?
Delta-8 is a non psychoactive cannabinoid that binds directly to the neuronal CB2 receptors, resulting in its receptors being activated by this cannabinoid. This activation of these receptors then facilitates and enhances the effects of THC.
It’s important to note that while Delta-8 does not bind directly to the CB1 receptors, it has been shown to minimize THC’s psychoactivity because Delta-8 can cross over into brain cells where Delta-9 cannot.
Research has also indicated that when cannabinoids are combined together at low doses, they have a greater effect on neurodegenerative diseases than when used individually or at high doses. As such, Delta-8 has been suggested as a viable treatment option for those suffering from multiple sclerosis.
Is It Legal In Florida?
Delta-8 THC is legal in the state of Florida. However, you must be aware that it is illegal to use Delta-8 THC if you are not a Florida resident. In addition, those who are under the age of 18 should also not consume Delta-8. You need to be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.
The state of Florida has passed the rules and regulations governing the sale of this compound in dispensaries. You can purchase products such as oils or edibles which contain Delta-8 at these legal outlets without any issues.
Though Delta 8 THC is legal, state laws in Florida govern the sale and production of this cannabinoid. It’s best that you are knowledgeable about its uses and safe dosage amounts. Use a trusted brand from a well-trusted dispensary to get your supplies if you want to use this substance legally and minimally.
How To Dose D8?
It’s important to start with moderate doses of D8, at least 10% lower than THC levels. You should increase your dose slowly if you feel like the effects are too light or too high in comparison with THC.
Just remember that when using any cannabis product it’s important to start low and go slow until you know how you respond to a specific cannabinoid or combination of cannabinoids.
Cooking with D8?
The best way to make D8 infused butter is through decarboxylation. When cooking with infusions or infused oils, always put them in after all other ingredients are cooked through and off the heat source to avoid burning/charring your infusion, which can give an unpleasant taste and odor. Most recipes out there call for D8 infused butter, so you can just substitute for regular butter.
What Are The Effects Of Cannabis & Other Cannabinoids?
THC and CBD are the most studied and best understood cannabinoids since they’ve been around longer; but there are more than 100 other cannabinoids, many of which have their own unique effects on the body.
There is still a lot to be learned about how each cannabinoid affects human health, and much of what we do know comes from individual case reports (which are gathered by organizations like MAPS).
Unfortunately, this makes it hard to offer accurate generalizations or predictive statements about specific varieties of cannabis, or their effects on different types of people.
That’s why it’s crucial for individual consumers to experiment with different strains and forms in order to find out what works best for them (and for many people, THC is the cannabinoid that works best for them).
D8 And Your Liver?
Delta-8 does not appear to be toxic or carcinogenic to human cells. This compound differs from other cannabinoids because its biochemistry closely mirrors our body’s natural endocannabinoid (such as anandamide), which are produced and released by cells within the body.
We have enzymes in our bodies that are responsible for the alpha-oxidation of fatty acids; this process produces molecules called “ketones,” which help organs function properly. When activated by external cannabinoids, these receptors send signals through our bodies keeping everything functioning normally.
In fact, appears as though D8 could have protective effects on the liver. One study found that rats treated with D8 were significantly less likely to experience liver damage from toxic doses of alcohol than rats treated with THC or CBD. Another study conducted on mice and published in the journal Life Sciences found that a combination of D8 and cannabis oil was able to promote brain cell growth in rats after experiencing a traumatic injury.