Usually, we’re all about the CBD here. We talk a lot about the stuff and we know what we’re talking about. We want to delve into the world of THC a bit, though. Don’t worry! It’s probably not the THC you’re thinking of.

In cannabis plants, there are two primary chemicals that are produced – cannabidiol, or CBD, and tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. Whenever people talk about “getting high” off of cannabis, they’re referring to the euphoric effects associated with THC, specifically. When people consume CBD alone, the “high” feeling goes away and people are instead left with feelings of calm, relaxation, and overall peace and contentment, both mentally and physically.

Currently, THC is largely criminalized in the United States, though there have been significant efforts in recent years to make it more widely available to the public – and many of those efforts have paid off. While progress continues to be made in this regard, there is still plenty of debate as to whether or not THC should be made completely legal. One thing that’s hard to deny, though, is that there are many health benefits associated with the cannabis plant, many of which are specifically attributed to THC rather than CBD.

THC can be used to treat things such as decreased appetite, insomnia, asthma, inflammation (and the endless list of ailments affected and exacerbated by inflammation!), and much more. It’s also said to have antibacterial properties, antioxidants, and cancer-fighting potential. Of course, all of those benefits, potential or proven, are often eclipsed by the compound’s psychoactive effects, not to mention all the stereotypes associated with it.

Within the realm of THC, there are a few different compounds that have varying effects. The most common compound found in THC products is called “delta-9,” but it’s close relative, delta-8, is getting a lot of attention lately. While not as abundant in the plant as delta-9, delta-8 offers similar health benefits with less psychoactive effects. Actually, some have reported that its “high” is quite similar to the feelings of ease you’d experience with CBD.

Currently, efforts are being made to isolate delta-8 from the cannabis plant, but as mentioned earlier, it’s not as abundant in the plant as delta-9. There can be up to 2500 times more delta-9 in cannabis than delta-8! Therefore, availability could be limited, but many producers are looking into the possibility of extracting delta-8 more regularly, testing its stability and efficacy when using it to treat certain ailments and illnesses, and even enjoying it recreationally. While there is still plenty more work to do on this front, the prospects look promising!

Who could benefit from isolating delta-8 strains in cannabis? Pretty much anyone who suffers from any of those previously mentioned ailments but does not want to be “high” or otherwise impaired can benefit from this. Also, this could be an appealing option for those of us who don’t want to be dependent on pharmaceutical drugs and are looking for a natural alternative that doesn’t come with a long list of potential side effects, additives, or negative effects associated with long-term usage.

By Yasmin Khan