How to Maximize Your Delta-8 Experience
Delta-8 THC is a funny thing. Scientists discovered it in the 1940s and synthesized it in the 1960s, but it was only legalized about 50 years later. Most people have only just learned about this cannabinoid’s existence, so it is not surprising that the majority do not know how to maximize their delta-8 experience.
Each cannabinoid has its own characteristics and works in different ways. So, to get the best out of delta-8, you need to learn how it works.
Luckily, you can find out everything you need to know by reading this short guide.
Understanding The Difference
Delta-8 is one of the many tetrahydrocannabinol present in cannabis plants. But, it is not the most popular one. That title goes to THC or, more specifically, delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis and an illegal substance in most countries.
Delta-8 THC has an atomic difference that distinguishes it from delta-9 THC and gives it a few distinct effects. You can still get high off of delta-8, but it is well-known that you can only get about two-thirds of the high you would get from delta-9.
Everything is much more mellow with delta-8, including the side effects. While delta-9 THC has been studied as a possible treatment for many ailments, it is also known for causing some nasty side effects like nausea, anxiety, paranoia, increased heart rate, and more.
Delta-8, on the other hand, provides a satisfying high with few adverse effects. Delta-8 users report experiencing almost none of the side effects as they did with its counterpart. Nevertheless, the effects are reported as being significantly milder compared to delta-9 THC, and those who have tried both cannabinoids can easily detect the difference.
The reason for this might be the way delta-8 THC binds to the endocannabinoid receptors in the body. While delta-9 THC only attaches to the CB1 receptors, delta-8 goes a little further to bind to both CB1 and CB2 receptors.
The CB2 receptors are located in deep muscle tissue. So, binding to these receptors has a more “stabilizing” effect, causing you to feel more relaxed and happy. Moreover, you could feel excited, energized, and become more focused on your tasks. Either way, the chances of side effects are pretty low. But, the results you get are majorly dependent on one factor — strains.
Why Are Strains So Important?
If you strip away the long history of strains, they are just a way for cultivators to identify and classify different classes of weed. The most popular strains are also just that, even though they have been used to determine the effects of weed for decades.
The three main strains are indica, sativa, and hybrid strains. Indica strains are dark and broad-leaved in their natural state and are thought to produce a relaxing, drowsy, full-body effect when processed and ingested. Sativa, though, is lighter than indica with thinner leaves and is believed to have an energizing cerebral rush.
However, you need to understand delta-8 THC can be extracted from different kinds of strains. So, if you choose a product with an indica or sativa strain based on the myth of their effects, you might get an unwanted surprise.
We will tell you how to choose suitable strains below.
3 Ways to Maximize Your Delta-8 Experience
Know the Effect You Want
To get the most out of any delta-8 product, you must first decide what effect you want. Then, you can purchase a product made from a strain capable of producing that effect.
There are three types of strains modern scientists are using to categorize cannabis.
Strains that contain more THC are far more intoxicating and energizing than strains with high CBD. On the other hand, strains with high CBD levels are more calming and relaxing. Although both strains contain delta-8, you may find higher concentrations in CBD strains.
Before anything else, make a list of the effects you are looking to get from the substance. Then, read the product description and reviews of selected products to ensure its effect is the one you need. You may even be able to find companies that have product categories for effects.
Start Small and Slowly Increase Your Dosage
This advice goes for almost everything in life, but it is especially fitting for anyone trying new consumables. Delta-8 THC may be milder than delta-9 THC, but it is still an intoxicant with psychoactive effects. Taking too much can lead to unforeseen events, and we want to maximize your delta-8 experience, not sabotage it.
So, if you are smoking your delta-8 flower, take small puffs and wait for the effects to kick in before taking any more. The same goes for tinctures, as you should go easy on those drops.
Edibles need a long time to take effect, typically two to six hours. So, take the recommended dosage first and wait at least four hours before taking another dose if you do not feel any effects. On the bright side, you will probably have a high that will last the entire day.
Mix Delta-8 With CBD
Have you heard of the entourage effect? It refers to the boosting sensation cannabinoids create when they interact. Therefore, using cannabinoids together causes an increased effect on the consumer.
Delta-8 THC resembles delta-9 THC chemically, but once in the body, it binds to the CB2 receptor as CBD does. This makes delta-8 and CBD an excellent combination.
Once the two cannabinoids are ingested together, the effects will manifest in a more focused and soothing experience that you will probably want to try again and again.
Get The Most Out Of Your Delta 8 Experience
It is easy to think of this “new cannabinoid” as just another product to try. But, putting some extra effort into learning how to maximize your delta-8 experience can provide unexpected advantages for you.
You get to learn how your body reacts, how to pick the best strains, and how to get the best effects from your products. It is a win-win all around.
Just remember to consume it carefully, follow the advice given, and enjoy the buzz you feel. If need be, consult your physician to find out about any pre-existing conditions that delta-8 could aggravate.
