You may have seen advertisements for delta-8 THC products, but what is this chemical? It has THC in the name, so does it get you high like marijuana? Is it legal? And how can you take it safely?

If you live in Oregon, as of 2023, delta-8 THC is illegal as are all other artificially derived cannabinoids. This may change in the future though, and you may run into this product when you’re outside of the state. Here’s everything you need to know about delta-8 THC in case you decide to use it. If you have more questions about it, contact us.

What Is Delta 8 THC?

Delta-8 THC, also known as delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, is a chemical found in cannabis species. The more famous THC that gets you high when you take cannabis is more formally known as delta-9 THC. These are just two compounds out of the around hundred cannabinoids found in cannabis.

Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol is only found in tiny amounts inside the plant, but it became possible to sell as a product thanks to the hemp industry. The products are made from it as a byproduct of the CBD industry. Smoking hemp will not get you high, but by concentrating the delta-8 in the hemp plant you can make new products that create a high. This is done through a process called isomerization.

Thanks to how the Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and CBD production nationwide, is worded, delta-8 may be sold in many areas. Some states and cities have made it illegal to use though, including Oregon. Oregon has made it illegal since 2023, though naturally derived hemp products, like delta-9 THC and CBD, are legal.

Will Delta-8 THC Get You High?

Yes, delta-8 THC can produce psychotropic effects like its famous cousin. However, the effects are lighter. Some users even call the high from delta-8  “diet marijuana”. Like THC and CBD, delta-8 THC interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to create the high.

Some users who have anxiety when using normal cannabis can tolerate delta-8 THC products. The lighter effect is also good for people who want a mild high and don’t like the stoned feeling. Users report that their head is much clearer while high using these products compared to traditional marijuana.

Will Delta-8 THC Appear on a Drug Test?

Yes, it can. Delta-8 and delta-9 are close enough in composition to trigger a positive drug test. This means that your employer may fire you if you take it. Be careful taking delta-8 if you are subject to drug testing for employment or other reasons.

Exploring the Benefits

Delta-8 THC needs more study, but there have been some benefits reported by users. The most notable is its ability to cause a high without creating anxiety and paranoia. This makes delta 8 popular among people who suffer from these conditions.

Delta-8 benefits include promise in pain relief and inflammation. Research suggests that it may have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, but more research is needed before doctors can prescribe it. Like delta-9 THC, it may also ease nausea and increase appetite.

In short, the medical benefits seem quite similar to delta-9 THC. With more study, scientists will dial in dosages and any unique benefits of delta-8 THC.

How To Use

A pure delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol experience can’t be done through smoking. It’s a concentration. Vaping is the most popular way to take it currently, but it can also be taken as edibles, tinctures, or capsules. The side effects and time to take effect are like those of other marijuana products. gummies are among the most popular ways to take the drug.

Is Delta-8 Safe?

There have been some reports of harm caused by these products, but it’s unsure whether they were caused by delta-8 THC or if it was because of poor extraction methods and leftover chemicals from the process.

It is essential to purchase the products from reputable sources. Look for companies that provide third-party lab testing to ensure purity and potency. This will minimize the risk of consuming contaminants or inaccurate levels.

Furthermore, it is advised to start with a low dosage and wait for the effects to kick in before deciding to take more. This will help you gauge your tolerance and avoid any overwhelming experiences.

Is Delta-8 THC Legal?

Currently, delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol and other artificially derived hemp products are prohibited by law in Oregon. This includes synthesis from CBD production, which is where delta-8 comes from.

The Farm Bill’s wording makes it subject to federal legalization, but you must look up state laws if you travel outside of Oregon before buying and using it. Do not bring it back into Oregon; you could get arrested.

How Does Delta-8 THC Compare to Delta-9 THC?

Delta-8 THC has a lower binding affinity to CB1 receptors, which may contribute to its different effects. Let’s get into a bit of the chemistry behind the differences. The only difference between the two is a change in one of the carbon bonds.

Delta-9 THC has a single bond on the 8th carbon chain in its chemical structure. Delta-8 has a double bond. It’s a very subtle difference, but it’s enough to give it a different name. There’s also a delta-10 THC which has a double bond on the 10th carbon chain. There is even less of this naturally occurring in cannabis than delta-8.

Potential Side Effects

Like any cannabinoid, delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol can have side effects, particularly when consumed in high doses. Some reported side effects include dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, sedation, and temporary memory impairment. These effects are typically mild and subside as the compound leaves the system.

Again, we stress that delta-8 THC is currently illegal in the state of Oregon. Our cannabis dispensary in Portland cannot offer these products. But if you travel to another state, you may find it for sale so we thought it was wise to inform you about it.

When it comes to deciding how to consume cannabis, there are almost a dozen different methods to choose from, so how do you know which one is the best for you? They aren’t all the same! So we wanted to explain the main ways of consuming cannabis so you can make an informed choice for your needs.

Smoking: The Traditional Way to Consume Cannabis

Cannabis smoking remains a classic choice among enthusiasts. The user lights cannabis flower or another burnable cannabis product and inhales the smoke. It’s popular because it causes an immediate high and it’s easy to control how much you inhale with some practice.

Smoking cannabis is popular because it causes an immediate high. You don’t have to wait for it like you do with edibles. All consumption methods use heat at some stage to activate the cannabis.

Some users appreciate the ritualistic aspect of smoking and enjoy the various flavors and aromas that different strains offer. Furthermore, the act of sharing a joint or passing around a bowl not only enhances the social aspect but also fosters a sense of camaraderie among cannabis enthusiasts.

Vaporizing: A Healthier Way to Enjoy Cannabis

Vaporizing is a very popular alternative to get the speed of a cannabis high without the dangers of smoking. It’s smoother and more flavorful as well; it’s easy to flavor the cannabis concentrate with many flavors.

Using a vaporizer is useful for medical cannabis users because you can control dosages. Another benefit of vaporizing is that you can control the temperature. Enthusiasts find they can make certain components of cannabis more or less prevalent based on the temperature, especially flavor and scent compounds.

However, to vape cannabis you’ll need specialized products. You’ll need vape juice and a vape that can handle cannabis products. You cannot vape the cannabis flower on its own.

Dabbing: An Intense Way to Consume Cannabis

You may see products labeled as wax, shatter, budder, and other strange names. These are cannabis concentrates used for a consumption method called dabbing. This is the strongest way to get a high, but it’s only for experienced users. Unlike the other methods we’ve talked about, dabbing is used for recreational reasons.

Dabbing is done by heating a cannabis concentrate over a hot surface and inhaling the vapor. You will need a dab rig and a torch to use them. If you’re interested in this method, we recommend speaking with an experienced budtender first. We do not recommend dabbing for someone who has never been high!

 

Edibles: Experience the Effects of Cannabis in a Delicious Way

Edibles is the term cannabis used for any form of cannabis that’s eaten or drunk. The classic pot brownie is a baked good edible, but many other foods and drinks can be infused with cannabis.

Eating edible is a much more discreet way to consume cannabis than smoking or vaping, but they have a much different effect than smoking. It can take up to two hours to affect you, and when it starts it hits hard and lasts longer than smoking. This is because the cannabinoids have to pass through the liver instead of going straight into the bloodstream through the lungs.

Once you have your edibles dose dialed in though, it’s an excellent way to get a long high or to get longer medicinal effects. Chronic pain sufferers may use an edible at the start of the day for pain control, then use a vape whenever the pain spikes.

Tinctures and Oils: Speed and Accuracy

Cannabis tinctures and cannabis oils are used similarly. They’re liquids applied under the tongue for absorption into the body. A tincture is made from soaking cannabis in alcohol or glycerin. This pulls out the right components. Oils are similar, but use an oil as a carrier instead and they may be more concentrated than a tincture.

A few drops under the tongue is all that’s needed and both act very quickly. By measuring drops, users can get a very precise dose. This may be especially helpful if you need to stay within a certain range to avoid getting too high.

Be careful with oils though. They are often much more concentrated than other cannabis products. Start with a low dose and go up slowly.

Topicals: Get the Benefits of Cannabis Without Ingestion

Topicals are any cannabis product applied to the skin, like a cream, balm, lotion, or massage oil. They’re mostly used for muscle pain and skin irritation. The skin cannot absorb THC into the bloodstream, so it’s safe for people who don’t want to get high.

They’re easy to use. Just apply them to the skin and rub it in! Applying CBD topicals is much more discreet compared to smoking and vaping, but they’re best for skin problems and muscle pain.

If you’re unsure of what method is best for you, contact our cannabis dispensary in Portland for advice. Our budtenders can teach you which products and consumption methods are best for your needs. Whether you’re a recreational user or a medicinal user, we can help you!

A lot of people are talking about HHC, or hexahydrocannabinol. Some are calling it “THC lite” or “synthetic THC,” and there’s a lot of interest in how this relatively new and very interesting cannabinoid could be used as an alternative to THC. But how true are those claims? And how do THC and HHC compare? This HHC vs THC guide will explain it all.

What Are Cannabis Plant Cannabinoids?

Before we get into the specifics of THC vs HHC and the specific difference between THC and HHC, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what cannabinoids are.

In a nutshell, cannabinoids are natural compounds found within the cannabis or hemp plant. They occur naturally, and there are over 100 of them in total. Examples include CBD, CBG, CBN, and, of course, THC and HHC, too.

When consumed in various forms, like cannabis oils, flowers, or specific HHC products, these cannabinoids can interact with a part of the human body called the endocannabinoid system, or ECS.

The ECS has its cannabinoid receptors, called CB1 and CB2 receptors. Cannabinoids like THC can interact with those receptors, triggering certain effects in the body, like a change in mood, appetite, tiredness, and so on.

THC: How It Works

Next, let’s look at what is HHC and THC, starting with THC. THC, which can come in various forms, like Delta-9 THC and Delta-10 THC, is a potent cannabinoid. It’s famed for being the psychoactive part of the cannabis plant, capable of making people feel “high”. It works by binding with the cannabinoid receptors to trigger a sense of euphoria, among other effects.

Benefits

There are lots of possible benefits associated with THC, especially from a medical perspective. Thanks to its potency and power to help people feel happier, as well as easing pain, inflammation, and other issues, it can be used as a supplementary treatment option for various conditions like depression, inflammation, insomnia, MS, migraines, nausea, and PTSD.

Uses

Some current uses for THC include:

• Helping people relax
• Stimulating the appetite
• Easing nausea and vomiting
• Improving sensory perception
• Soothing pain and inflammation

HHC: How It Works

Next up in our HHC vs THC guide, we have to focus on HHC. So, what is HHC? Well, HHC is one of the “minor cannabinoids” and doesn’t appear much in the cannabis plant. So, when it comes to the HHC products you’d find in your local Portland cannabis dispensary, most of them are made with synthetic or man-made HHC.

Back in the 1940s, a chemist called Roger Adams figured out that he could add hydrogen to THC to create this new cannabinoid: HHC. Like THC, it’s capable of binding with cannabinoid receptors in the body, along with pain receptors, to trigger certain effects.

Benefits

One of the big benefits of HHC is its stability. The hydrogenation process used to make this cannabinoid makes it more stable and strong compared to THC, so it can last longer and won’t break down as easily. It also is said to offer a milder high compared to THC, so it may not be quite as dangerous if used irresponsibly and may offer certain medical benefits and uses.

Uses

The uses and effects of HHC include:

• Potential for pain management and relief
• Easing symptoms of anxiety and depression
• Soothing inflammation
• Treating insomnia and sleep problems
• Easing vomiting and nausea

HHC vs THC: What’s the Difference?

So, is HHC stronger than THC? And how do the two compare? Well, firstly, HHC isn’t stronger. Of the two, THC is more potent and packs more of a punch. Indeed, many people call HHC “THC lite” as it feels a little less powerful and doesn’t cause such strong intoxicating effects or high sensations.

The two also have different chemical structures, different legal statuses, and slightly different effects, too. Does HHC get you high? Yes, just like THC, but it doesn’t do it quite as strongly. The lists of effects and benefits for each cannabinoid also have some notable differences, with HHC having less severe overall effects.

The Chemical Structure Differences

One of the key areas in which THC and HHC differ is in their chemical structure. They’re almost identical, except HHC has been hydrogenated, giving it an extra hydrogen atom compared to THC. That atom not only changes the chemical structure but also makes HHC more stable and resistant to UV radiation.

HHC vs THC: Legal Statuses in the US

THC and HHC also have different legal statuses at this time. THC is completely illegal at the federal level and in many states, but HHC operates in more of a legal gray area. It can be made from hemp, which is perfectly legal due to the 2018 Farm Bill, and it is therefore legal on a technical level. However, as more is discovered about this cannabinoid, we may see states introducing new laws to control it. Contact us to stay up to date on the legal situation in your state.

Clearly, HHC and THC have a lot in common, but also differ in key areas, like legality, use, benefits, and so on. More research is needed in areas like “Is HHC safe?” to figure out the potential advantages and uses of this cannabinoid instead of or alongside THC.

In recent years, CBD products have become hugely popular and more accessible than ever, and it’s easy to see why. CBD oils and edibles offer many benefits, from soothing pain to helping people sleep. However, if you want to get the best and safest results with CBD, you need to use the right CBD dosage.

This CBD dose guide will show you how to calculate dosage and explain what kinds of effects you can expect at different CBD oil dosage levels.

Factors that Can Influence CBD Dosage

When trying to decide on the right CBD dosage for you, it’s important to take a few different factors into account:

• Desired Effects: Think about why you’re taking CBD and what you want to get out of it. Typically, If you’re looking to treat mental health conditions like anxiety disorders, smaller doses may be needed when compared to someone taking CBD to manage the symptoms of something like cancer or Parkinson’s, for instance.
• Type of Product: You also need to consider what kind of CBD product you’re working with. There are lots of CBD options in the average Cannabis dispensary in Portland, and they can have different concentrations of CBD and different speeds of action. Check the labels and know how much CBD is in your oil or gummies to calculate the right dose.
• Weight, Age, and Sex: Physical factors such as your age, weight, and sex can all have an impact on your ideal CBD gummies dosage or CBD oil dosage, too. Typically, older individuals tend to need smaller doses than young people. Men also need bigger doses, on average, and heavier people also need more CBD to feel the effects.
• Tolerance and Sensitivity: You’ll also need to take your own tolerance levels into account to figure out the ideal dose for you. Those with a history of CBD and cannabis usage will typically be more tolerant and need higher doses, while those who are new to CBD products should start off with a small dose.

Is It Possible to Take Too Much?

Yes, it’s possible to take too much of almost everything in life, including CBD. Studies have suggested that doses up to around 600mg are safe, but anything over that could be risky and would increase your chances of having unwanted side effects. However, there’s still a lot we don’t know about CBD and more research is required to figure out the true maximum dose.

Different CBD Dose Levels

Next, let’s take a look at some common dose levels, ranging from a small dose of 25mg up to a very large dose of 2,500mg to see what each one can do.

CBD Dose At 25mg

25mg is a common low dose of CBD. It’s often recommended as a good starting point for those who are new to CBD products, as it is enough to produce effects, but not too much to propose any notable risk. Low doses like this could be useful for pain relief or anxiety, and many CBD gummies and capsules contain 25mg of CBD each.

CBD Dose At 100mg

100mg is a more moderate CBD dosage compared to 25mg. It’s aimed at those who are seeking to alleviate or soothe mild to moderate symptoms, where 25mg just isn’t enough. This is a good option for those who are using CBD for sleep, and it might be just right to put you in a more relaxed and calm state to rest at night.

CBD Dose At 300mg

300mg is classed as a relatively high dose of CBD and is mainly suited for people who are dealing with more serious and severe health issues that cannot be alleviated with smaller, milder doses. At this level, you can expect to enjoy more intense pain relief and a notable change in mood, feeling calmer and less stressed. Such a dose can also have sedative effects.

CBD Dose At 500mg

500mg is one of the highest doses that a person can be safely recommended to try. It’s mainly used in patients with severe mental health issues, like anxiety disorders and PTSD, or those dealing with chronic pain conditions or pain associated with terminal diseases. This kind of dose should provide very powerful and potent effects, regardless of a person’s tolerance levels.

CBD Dose At 2500mg

2,500mg is an exceptionally high amount of CBD. This is not recommended for the average person to take and may not even be safe for human consumption. Such a high dose has almost never been used in studies, and the highest doses used for research purposes tend to be closer to 1,500mg.

Find the Best CBD Dosage for You

As explained above, the ideal dose for you will depend primarily on what kind of symptoms you’re hoping to treat and what effects you want. Here are some example conditions and appropriate doses for each one.

• CBD Dosage for Pain: CBD has powerful pain-relief potential as it interacts with the endocannabinoid system. If you’re looking to soothe pain, it really depends on how much pain you have. Doses from 50mg up to 500mg can all work.
• CBD Oil Dosage for Anxiety: CBD also works wonders for people dealing with anxiety, and smaller doses tend to work best. Anywhere from 50mg to 100mg is a good option per day for dealing with anxiety.
• CBD Oil Dosage for Sleep: Another of CBD’s health benefits is its power to help people sleep and rest. Around 50mg to 70mg should be enough to help you rest, although more may be needed for cases of serious insomnia.
• CBD Dosage for Acne: CBD may also assist with skin health and acne. A small dose is all you need, of around 20mg per day. CBD topicals can also help with acne problems. Contact us to learn more.

What Dosages Are Safe?

In general, studies carried out by leading researchers and authorities like the Food and Drug Administration suggest doses of anywhere up to 1,500mg may be safe, although 600mg is usually the top-recommended dose for most people.

How to Calculate Dosage

A lot of products, like gummies and pills, tell you exactly how much CBD is in each serving, so it’s very easy to control your dose. For other products that are a little less clear, you may have to use a CBD dosage calculator to assist you.

CBD Dosage Chart

The chart below shows average doses for people of different weights:

• 80-100 lbs: 180-450 mg
• 100-120 lbs: 225-545 mg
• 120-140 lbs: 272-636 mg
• 140-160 lbs: 318-727 mg
• 160-180 lbs: 363-818 mg
• 180-200 lbs: 409 mg-909 mg
• 200-220 lbs: 454 mg-600 mg
• 220 lbs +: Up to 600 mg

CBD can be a wonderful and life-changing cannabinoid for those with pain, inflammation, stress, and more. But you have to use the right dose. Use calculators and check the labels of your favorite products to make sure you’re taking the correct amount.

If you’re a fan of cannabis or enjoy the unique effects and medicinal benefits it can provide, you might like to take an active interest in cannabis concentrates. But, if you’re new to the concept of concentrates of cannabis, it can all feel a little overwhelming.

There are lots of different types of marijuana concentrates to consider, and each one is a little different. There are also multiple ways of consuming weed concentrate, from vape pens to dab rigs, and more.

This comprehensive guide to cannabis concentrates will cover all you need to know.

What Are Cannabis Concentrates?

Let’s kick off with the simple question that most beginners have: what is a concentrate?

Well, marijuana concentrates are highly concentrated (hence the name) substances that are made by processing cannabis plant matter in specific ways to extract and distill all the very best and most important parts of the cannabis plants, like cannabinoids and terpenes.

They can come in many forms and are often gold or amber colored, made up of lots of condensed cannabinoids, with high levels of potency in every single drop or piece.

Difference Between a Concentrate and an Extract

It’s quite common to hear people refer to weed concentrate and extract as the same thing, or use the two terms interchangeably. However, there is a slight difference between the two.

To put it simply, extracts are a type of concentrates, made in a specific way. Extracts are always made with the help of solvents, while other types of concentrates can be made using solventless methods. In other words, every extract is a concentrate, but not every concentrate can be classed as an extract.

How Are Concentrates Made?

Just like cannabis edibles, cannabis topicals, and all the other many products you can find in your local marijuana dispensary in Portland, cannabis concentrates have to be made using precise, established processes.

The extraction methods involved can be divided into two distinct groups:

• Solvent: As the name implies, solvent-based extraction involves the use of a solvent of some kind, with common examples including butane, ethanol, and olive oil. The cannabis plant matter is exposed to the solvent in some way, and the solvent breaks down the trichomes and draws out the contents of the cannabis.
• Solventless: There’s also the solventless approach, which doesn’t require the use of any solvent at all. With this method, water is the main liquid used to essentially separate the trichomes from the plants and draw out the key cannabinoids and terpenes. Heat can also be used, as well as simply physically shaking the cannabis flower.

Types of Cannabis Concentrates

There are many varieties of cannabis tinctures, oils, extracts, and concentrates. Some of the most popular and well-known examples include:

Shatter

Shatter is a very thin, brittle kind of concentrate that can break (or shatter) into lots of little pieces quite easily, under very little pressure. It can have very high THC levels of up to 80%.

Budder & Batter

Budder, batter, and badder are all terms used to refer to the same kind of concentrate. This one feels very buttery, which is where it gets the name from, and its more solid consistency often allows for easier handling compared to other cannabis concentrates.

Live Resin

Live resin is a concentrate famed for both its high levels of concentrated THC (up to 70%) as well as its rich smell and taste. It’s a very popular choice with purists and is made with very freshly harvested or frozen plants.

Rosin

Rosin is a very runny concentrate made using the solventless method. It has a big flavor, and many fans of cannabis concentrates enjoy debating the merits of rosin vs. resin.

Sauce

Sauce, just as the name suggests, is a very gooey, sauce-like concentrate with very high levels of terpenes. It can be a little tricky to handle, but has really tasty flavors.

Honeycomb

Honeycomb is so-called due to the fact that it truly looks and feels a lot like a real honeycomb, straight from a bee hive. It’s a versatile concentrate, you can use for dabbing marijuana or in a vape pen.

Kief

What is kief? This concentrate is one of the simplest. It’s made up of trichome crystals that have been shaken free from the cannabis flowers and then collected together. It’s easy to add to joints or pipe bowls.

Hash

Hash is a thick, brick-like concentrate made up of trichomes. It can come in various forms and is one of the oldest examples of cannabis concentrates.

Diamonds

Diamonds are a crystalline concentrate left over once all the terpenes and runny sauce have been moved. Flavor tends to be quite low with diamonds, but they’re very potent.

How to Consume Cannabis Concentrates

There are lots of different ways to work with and consume cannabis concentrates, including:

• Dabbing: This involves the use of a “dab rig”, torch, nail, and other equipment to heat the concentrates to extremely high temperatures and effectively vaporize them for rapid, easy inhaling.
• Smoking: Concentrates can also be smoked. They can be mixed in or used to infuse or “top off” pipe bowls and joints.
• Vaping: Various vape pens and vaping devices are also compatible with concentrates, allowing the user to vaporize waxes, oils, and more.
• Making edibles: Another great way to use cannabis concentrates is to use them for making tasty edibles, like cannabis cookies, brownies, cakes, and more.
• Making topicals: Cannabis concentrates like wax and oil can also be used to make topical cannabis creams and lotions.
• Making tinctures: Concentrates are essential ingredients when making cannabis tinctures and oils.

Contact us to find out more about how to use concentrates.

Benefits of Using Marijuana Concentrates

Some of the benefits of concentrates include:

• Versatile: There are lots of different forms of concentrates and ways to use them.
• Potent: Concentrates have high levels of cannabinoids for potent effects.
• Fast-acting: You can usually feel the effects of concentrates very quickly.
• Health: Concentrates can offer certain health benefits, like pain relief.

While concentrates can be a little confusing for first-time users, they’re a great choice for people who want to broaden their cannabis experiences, enjoying a wide range of consumption methods, tastes, aromas, and effects.C