CBD and delta-9 THC have been center stage when it comes to cannabinoids for decades. Recently though, there have been other naturally occurring compounds on the rise, like delta-8 THC. This minor cannabinoid has been gaining rapid popularity, and reportedly exhibits effects similar to but milder than delta-9 THC. 

Many users of this new compound may enjoy the possible benefits it can provide, from relaxation to better sleep, but they may not know where the compound comes from. Apart from knowing that delta-8 is produced from hemp plants, not all users know much more. One question that is starting to be asked more is whether or not delta-8 is natural or synthetic; read on to found out more. 

What is Delta-8 THC 

Delta-8 THC is in fact a naturally occurring compound found in both cannabis and hemp plants. The products found on the market today are largely made from cannabis sativa plants, also called hemp plants, that have a delta 9-THC level of 0.3% or less. Although delta-8 does occur naturally, it is a minor cannabinoid meaning it is found less abundantly than major cannabinoids like CBD. 

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of the most abundant cannabinoids in hemp plants and most delta 8 products today are actually made from processed CBD. Delta-8 and CBD share some similar potentially therapeutic properties, but delta 8 can be psychoactive while CBD is not. 

Not only do delta-8 and delta-9 share similar names, but they also have a similar molecular structure with one very notable difference. Delta-8 has a double bond on the 8^th atom of its molecular chain while delta-9 predictably has it on the 9^th. This small difference is what is thought to lead in the difference in effects the two cannabinoids can have. 

Some delta-8 users have reported effects milder than the ones they experienced with delta-9 THC. Delta-8 is said to be preferred by some users because it has a less intense “high” that can be less immediate. 

How Is Delta-8 Made 

Delta-8 is most often made using CBD. It undergoes a process best known as isomerization that chemically transforms CBD into delta-8. 

All cannabinoids come from CBGA, or cannabigerolic acid, as they naturally evolve. This evolution is driven in nature by things like the plant’s environment, which is why there are minor and major cannabinoids. In a controlled lab, manufacturers can control different variables and manipulate CBGA, or in this case CBD, and its conversion process to produce a desired compound, like delta-8.

Delta-8: Natural or Synthetic? 

Due to delta-8 being widely produced using CBD, the question of it is synthetic has come into play. Although delta-8 is made with CBD through a lab process, it is still a naturally occurring compound. Given there is no hard scientific evidence pointing delta-8 products into one category or the other, we always recommend turning to products that have been third party lab tested to ensure their reliability and safety. 

Is Delta-8 Safe?

Like any substance, everyone can react differently. Delta-8 is no exception to this rule. Choosing a product that has been independently lab tested and transparently reviewed is the best way to make sure you are getting a safe and trustworthy product. By relying on third party lab tests you can see all the cannabinoids present in your product and how much of each is included in each dose. This way you can make an informed delta 8 purchase and get the results you are looking for. 

Turn to Real Tested CBD 

If you are looking to try out delta-8 and are not sure where to start, turn to Real Tested CBD for the most transparent reviews and independent lab tests. Take the guesswork out of buying delta-8 by checking the Delta-8 Resource Center.