Delta 8 is the newest cannabis trend, and people really love it. It has all the good stuff that THC has but without the not-so-nice side effects. The best part is, that it’s legal in most places in the United States.

Now, here’s the thing: If you take a drug test after using Delta 8, there could be a problem. Even though marijuana is getting more accepted, you might still get in trouble if the test shows THC.

In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about Delta 8 and drug tests. We want you to enjoy THC responsibly and have a great time. We’ll also explain how Delta 8 is different from Delta 9 and other kinds of THC.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know why Delta 8 is becoming so popular in the cannabis world and among doctors. Let’s start!

What Is Delta 8?

Delta 8 THC isn’t just another fake THC; it’s different, and understanding it involves a bit of chemistry. The most common THC is delta 9, but delta 8 is pretty similar, with a small difference in where the chemical bonds are. It’s like a close cousin to Delta 9.

The great thing about Delta 8 is that it can come from both marijuana and hemp plants, unlike Delta 9, which usually only comes from marijuana. However, it’s a bit harder to find because both plants only produce a small amount of delta 8.

Now, let’s talk about how the effects of Delta 8 are different from Delta 9 before we dive into whether it shows up on a drug test or not.

Effects of Delta 8

Delta 8 has become really popular because you can enjoy the positive effects of THC, like feeling uplifted, but without the anxiety and paranoia that sometimes come with it. The secret is that delta 8 is not as strong as delta 9, the usual THC. But don’t worry, you can still get that great THC feeling with Delta 8.

People love Delta 8 because it’s well-balanced. Users say they feel clear-headed and more focused, not groggy or out of it. It keeps your energy levels normal, so you won’t feel too sleepy.

The reason delta 8 affects you differently is because it attaches to different receptors in your body than delta 9 does. It’s kind of like a mix of CBD and Delta 9. Delta 8 attaches to cannabinoid receptors in your endocannabinoid system, which is spread throughout your body. It binds with both CB1 receptors in your brain and CB2 receptors in your immune and digestive systems.

Here’s the greatest part: Delta 8 attaches to CB2 receptors more than CB1 receptors, giving you the physical effects without the intense mental downsides like anxiety and paranoia. The eighth carbon chain of delta 8 has a double bond, which is what gives it all the good aspects of other types of THC. Because of its clean and euphoric effects, both recreational users and the medical community really like Delta 8.

Does Delta 8 Show Up on Drug Tests?

If you get drug tested after using Delta 8, there’s a chance you might not pass. Drug tests are often done by employers or law enforcement, and you can’t always predict when they’ll happen.

These tests look for THC metabolites, which are the chemicals that all types of THC turn into when your body processes them. The issue is, that drug tests can’t tell the difference between delta 8 and delta 9 metabolites. So, unfortunately, using Delta 8 can make you fail a drug test. The good news is that Delta 8 has lower amounts of THC compared to Delta 9.

If you know you have a drug test coming up in the next month, it’s a good idea to stop using Delta 8 a few weeks beforehand to avoid it showing up in the results. If you don’t have that much time, you can try using detox products similar to those used for quickly detoxing from delta-9 THC.

Benefits of Delta 8

Even though delta 8 can show up on a drug test, the positive aspects of this THC compound often outweigh the negatives. Think of Delta 8 as a “lighter” version of Delta 9. You still get a nice and enjoyable high, but it’s not as strong. The best part is that the downsides of the delta 9 THC experience are also reduced.

A significant advantage of Delta 8 THC is that it’s legal in most parts of the country, unlike Delta 9 THC over 0.3%, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill.

If you use marijuana to unwind and relax, you can still achieve that with Delta 8 as well. It offers all the benefits of THC without the intense psychoactive effects, brain fog, or added anxiety. If you’re looking for a more mellow experience, delta 8 might be the right choice for you.

Should You Use Delta 8?

You might be surprised at how clear-headed you feel on Delta 8, while still enjoying that pleasant THC experience you seek. However, be cautious if a drug test is on the horizon, as delta 8 can lead to a failed test. It’s recommended to stop using any cannabis products about four weeks before your scheduled drug test.

Using Delta 8 is a fantastic way to enjoy cannabinoids responsibly. Not only can you have a great experience without the usual paranoia, but you’ll also appreciate the overall sense of well-being it provides.