Have you heard that delta-8 is a legal way to get THC? Unfortunately, the way it’s made can be potentially dangerous! Learn more about delta-8 THC, why you should stay away from these products, and where you can get safe products instead.
Table of Contents
Article Features
- An overview of what delta-8 THC is vs. delta-9 THC
- The potentially dangerous side effects associated with D8
- Want to skip the hard work? Shop with me and have premium, high-quality cannabis products delivered directly to your door! Now shipping across the US.
Why You Will Love This Guide
Curious about THC and its different forms? You’re not alone, many members of my Well With Cannabis Community have asked me about this.
This guide will give you a clear and friendly explanation of delta-8 THC (D8), delta-9 THC (D9), and why understanding them matters.
Whether you’re a cannabis enthusiast or just trying to stay informed, you’ll discover the benefits and risks associated with these compounds.
Plus, we’ll explore important safety tips and break down some of the controversies surrounding D8. By the end, you’ll feel empowered to make safer, smarter decisions about cannabis products.
There Are Different Forms of THC
THC isn’t a one-size-fits-all compound. Several forms of THC occur naturally in cannabis plants, including delta-8 THC (D8), delta-9 THC (D9), and delta-10 THC (D10).
While they share similarities, each has slight chemical differences that influence how they work with the receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system.
D9 THC may sound familiar—that’s because it’s the form that occurs in the largest quantities and is considered a “major cannabinoid.”
By contrast, D8 and D10 are referred to as “minor cannabinoids” because they naturally occur in much smaller amounts.
Unfortunately, there’s some major controversy surrounding the delta-8 form of THC.
D9 THC is the form you may be most familiar with. It is considered a major cannabinoid because it naturally occurs in large amounts in a plant.
D8 and D10 are minor cannabinoids because they are only naturally present in very small amounts.
People claim that D8 can provide relief for those with chronic pain, migraine attacks, and other medical conditions.
Retailers love D8 because they believe it is a legal loophole, claiming it is legal at the federal level because it comes from ‘hemp’ plants.
Unfortunately, there have been an alarming number of claims of people reporting adverse reactions after consuming delta-8 flower, delta-8 gummies, and other delta-8 THC products like vape cartridges.
As concern grows over these products, New York State just ordered an immediate cease and desist for any company selling D8 or D10 products.
What is Delta-8?
It is important to start with the fact that naturally occurring D8 THC is not inherently dangerous.
But here’s the kicker: D8 doesn’t naturally appear in large quantities.
To produce enough for retail products like gummies, vapes, and oils, manufacturers use a chemical process to convert hemp-derived CBD into D8.
Unfortunately, this process often involves harsh chemicals like dichloromethane, battery acid, or even pool cleaning products. Yikes.
It is the chemical process used to create D8 that makes it potentially unsafe to consume.
Again, it is not the compound itself but the chemicals used to produce D8 and the leftover residual material that makes it dangerous.
Side Effects of Synthetic Delta-8
Delta-8 THC has both psychoactive and intoxicating effects (whether it is derived from hemp extract or not)
The FDA has severally received cases of people who have reported adverse intoxicating effects of delta-8 THC such as difficulty thinking and speaking.
Regular use might also cause cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS).
CHS usually leads to severe nausea and vomiting that doesn’t respond to typical anti-nausea drugs.
These effects will vary based on how the delta-8 is produced, the product’s strength, and the consumption frequency.
Large doses may cause more severe reactions.
Other negative side effects of consuming contaminated D8 products include:
- Red eyes – Red eyes, including continuously rubbing your eyes and trying to restore some moisture
- Slowed reaction times
- Dry mouth – you will most likely feel parched as long as the Delta-8 molecule is present and active in your mouth.
- Anxiety – although Delta-8 has been said to alleviate paranoia, people who consume much have reported feeling anxious and jittery.
- Memory loss
- Trouble with coordination
- Rapid heart rate
- Headaches – migraine symptoms, cluster headaches
- Digestive distress – in some situations, you may experience diarrhea or other digestive problems
While many companies claim their D8 products are safe, little research has been done on what is considered ‘safe’.
There is no way to distinguish between a ‘safe’ and ‘unsafe’ D8 product. This is why D8 is banned in medical marijuana programs across the United States.
Instead, other cannabis products, like D9, are recommended to treat various ailments effectively.
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Lack of Regulation
One of the biggest risks of using D8 products is its lack of regulation.
This lack of regulation increases the chance of dangerous contaminants in the products sold.
Keep in mind that D8 hasn’t been evaluated by the US FDA for safety and has been banned by some states, including New York.
In October of 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) both put out health warnings about D8 THC.
Delta-9 is Safer Than Delta-8
Cannabis use is supposed to be health-promoting, but using chemically derived D8 is not.
Delta-9 products provide safer effects because they are naturally occurring, extracted through safe processes, and are already highly regulated.
This makes delta-9 products a safer choice than delta-8 products.
In my shop, I have D9 THC gummies available, providing the euphoric effects you may be looking for.
This is a better option if you want a full spectrum option that will leave you feeling amazing without the possibility of dangerous contaminants.
Have You Been Harmed by D8?
Many people have come to me and told me the D8 product they tried has made them sick. Has this happened to you? Let me know in the comments below.
Emily,
I have found that if I stay with Rosin products, I seem to have a much smoother ride and an enjoyable experience. I have also been medicating with 40:1 CBD which seems to be helping a lot with my pain issues and 2.5mg of Indica gummy at night helps with my PTSD. I also mix some 24%CBD 1% THC with some Blue Dream (thanks for leading me there). I really like the results. Am I always safe with a Rosin product?
Hey Randy! Yes, Rosin products are generally considered safe and natural because they are solventless and rely on heat and pressure for extraction. Of course, it’s always wise to verify the source and ensure they come from a reputable producer. The presence of delta-8 THC in Rosin products should be naturally occurring, so you should be good to go!
So far torch brand is the only one that makes me vomit
Thank you for sharing your experience.
Thank you So Much, Emily!
Your articles are well written and researched.. I appreciate your website and all it’s educational information… I have taken D8 for years for insomnia, just recently switched to cannibis buds. (hemp derived).and like the effect much better!
I have many health issues that cause me to be housebound and so I cannot contribute to bad side effects of d8 because I wouldn’t be sure if it’s from the d8 or my other health issues..I have not had the side effects that you mentioned…
Thank you so much for your kind words, Barbara! I’m so happy to hear that you’ve found value in the articles on my website. It’s great to know that the switch to hemp-derived cannabis buds has been beneficial for you, finding what works best for personal wellness is so important. If you have any questions or need additional resources, I’m here to help. Wishing you continued comfort and wellness on your health journey!
Delta 9 is crazy too! I lost 2 days. First day I was throwing up and just “out of it” mentally. I slept the entire 2nd day. I was not okay for about 6 days- Don’t do it!
*This was after taking a 10 mg gummy…just 1!
Thanks for sharing your experience, Lola! Just a quick note — Delta 9 is THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, while Delta 8 is a synthetic variant with slightly different effects. It’s always a good idea to start with a very low dose to see how your body reacts and for some, 10mg can be too much. Stay safe!
I am by no means a newbie when it comes to cannabis. My first time trying cannabis I was 11 years old. I’m almost 63 now and have been smoking & making tinctures & infusions for over 30 years.
Back in 2019, after the Farm Bill passed, CBD smoke shops first popped up all over East Tennessee, then in SW Virginia.
Everyone was pushing Delta8 as the “legal” way around cannabis restrictions.
I tried it a couple different ways. First was carts. The stuff was horrible. Harsh, metallic tasting, kinda bitter. The elevation was not very good. Kinda like getting ahold of some ditch weed or for you youngsters, what we called brick weed back in the day.
Next I tried edibles with Delta8. All I got was a headache. Nothing. Zero body involvement.
Then they came out with “delta 8” flower. I didn’t know squat about how they did this yet. It was so new! But, it was gross. If you ever had weed that was sprayed with anything, you’ll get where I’m going.
It was so gross. Absolutely zero cannabis taste worth anything. Harsh, chemical tasting and sour smelling. You kinda a got a head high that included a major headache. Even in a bong, dry vape, rolled up or just torched in a pipe-it sucked. So in that ever long quest for elevation tried several different shops. All the results for me were the same.
Then it came out in places like Leafly what exactly Delta 8 comes from. That it’s a cannabinoid that’s very low in amounts in plants. So they synthesize the delta 8.
No one wants to talk about how they synthesize delta 8 either-“trade secrets” they say.
I’m not a fan. All it did was give me a headache, upset stomach and when I ate gummies, I had to eat 60mg in order to kinda get a feeling and was accompanied by gastrointestinal distress!
Thanks for sharing your experience, Randy! It’s really interesting to hear a perspective from someone with so much history in the cannabis space. I totally understand your frustration with Delta-8 products, especially when it comes to the inconsistencies in quality and the lack of transparency around how it’s made. It’s disappointing when something that’s marketed as an alternative doesn’t live up to expectations or causes unpleasant side effects.
Your experience highlights the importance of education and understanding when it comes to these newer cannabinoids. The fact that Delta-8 is synthesized and not naturally abundant is definitely something consumers should know about, especially when considering potential health impacts. I think we can all agree that transparency from manufacturers is key.
Thank you again for sharing your insight — I’m sure many others will relate to your journey, and it’s helpful to hear honest feedback like this!
Fifty year smoker in Texas here. I have come to believe that what most people are selling now is Delta-8. At first I thought it was really really good weed. The rolled joints had an oily residue on them that I put down to the sticky buds. It also had a way more “potent” smell to it. But the more I smoked of it, the worse I got. The cotton mouth was a lot more severe, and headaches and digestive distress much more pronounced, continuing on into the next day and even the day after. Also, we bought some weed in Miami from a delivery service and ended up throwing it away after a few days. I had just quit smoking at home for two weeks and tried it again last night. Never again! I don’t know what this @#$% is, but I do know it’s causing me to stop smoking. How could I confirm or tell exactly?!? Thanks. signed Heartbroken Hop Head
Hi Tim. It sounds like you’ve had a particularly rough experience, and it’s understandable how disheartening this must be for you, especially after so many years. The symptoms you’re describing, such as severe cotton mouth, headaches, and digestive distress, are definitely concerning and not what one would expect from traditional cannabis use.
Delta-8 THC, while legal in many places, does interact differently with the body compared to Delta-9 THC. The oily residue and potent smell you mentioned could be indicative of Delta-8 products or other cannabinoids like CBD being added to the joints, which might explain the unusual effects you experienced. These compounds can vary widely in their effects on different people, and the lack of regulation in many areas means the quality and purity of products can be inconsistent.
To confirm what you’ve been smoking, the most reliable method would be to have the substance tested by a reputable lab. This, however, might not be easily accessible or practical for everyone. A more feasible approach might be to purchase from a trusted source with products that are tested and clearly labeled with COA’s, allowing you to know exactly what you’re getting.
Stopping smoking, especially after such a long time, is a significant change, and it’s important to listen to your body. If you’re experiencing adverse effects, it might be a sign to take a break or seek out alternatives that could be more agreeable with your system.
It’s also worth consulting with a healthcare professional about your symptoms to ensure there’s no underlying health issue being exacerbated by your consumption.
Remember, the landscape of cannabis and its derivatives is ever-changing, with new products and strains emerging regularly. Staying informed and cautious about what you consume is key to enjoying the benefits while minimizing the risks.
Take care of yourself, and I hope you find a path that works for you.
I’ve been taking Delta 8 for a little over a year and I have been in and out of the hospital several times, maybe around four or five times within the last year and come to find out it’s due to the chemicals and harsh effects of Delta 8 I have had CHS twice a nd finally stopped cold Turkey I will never pick up another gummy again.
Hi Hannah. I’m so sorry to hear about your experiences with Delta 8 and the health challenges you’ve faced as a result. It’s brave of you to share your story, and it’s an important reminder of the potential side effects and reactions to synthetic substances. Making the decision to stop using something that’s harming you is a significant step, and it sounds like you’ve made a wise choice for your health. Wishing you a smoother path to wellness ahead. Take care.
I have been ill for weeks with GI issues, IBS, reflux, burping, severe diarrhea and after reading your guide I believe it’s delta-8 that’s causing these issues. I thought it maybe my thyroid as I am being treated for hypothyroidism as all my thyroid levels have dropped below normal and my temperature is hovering between 96.8-97.2. I have a pituitary tumor. I assumed this was the result of the damage from 40+ years of dealing with this adenoma and the damage from its ever changing size.
I appreciate the information. I purchased some gummies clearly labeled delta-9 but hidden in the contents list delta-8. The label is a foil metallic print. You can barely make out the ingredients. We know why now.
Stephanie, thank you so much for sharing your experience, and I’m truly sorry to hear about the difficulties you’ve been facing with your health. It can be really challenging to navigate these issues, especially when it involves substances that can be misleadingly labeled. I’m glad that my guide could provide some clarity for you! Take care and sending lots of healing vibes your way! 🌟
Yes I have been harmed by D8 products. They would give me cluster headaches and migraines like crazy to the point where I was on the floor crying in pain several times. As of typing this I have what feels like a mega alchohol hangover and feverish shaking and muscle soreness. I am officially DONE with D8 and I really want to see this cash grab banned!
I’m really sorry to hear about your painful experience with D8 products, Daniel. It sounds incredibly tough what you’ve gone through. Your health and well-being are the most important things, so it’s good that you’ve recognized what’s harmful to you and decided to stop using it. It’s alarming to hear how severely it affected you, and it raises concerns about the safety and regulation of such products. Sharing your experience is brave and can help inform others who might be unaware of the potential side effects. Take care of yourself and I hope you recover fully soon.
I recently tried one delta 8 gummy at 25mg. I spent the night vomitting and shaking uncontrollably. I had hallucinations, diarrhea, vomitting, extreme dizziness and the inability to walk. My parents almost took me to the er as i was certain I had overdosed even though i only took one. It took several cold baths between rounds of vomitting and diarrhea before i could be laid down on the floor where I laid down crying, vomitting and shaking.
Thank you for sharing your experience with us, Cat. I’m incredibly sorry to hear about the distressing symptoms you went through after taking a delta 8 gummy. It’s vital for stories like yours to be shared to help inform others about the potential risks and reactions. Your courage in detailing what happened is appreciated, and I hope you’re feeling better now. Sending good vibes your way!
Was using D8 vape pens but they were destroying my lungs. It was so incredibly harsh and the hits weren’t consistent.
So I decided to switch to a D8 edible that were 175 mg per gummy and the recommended dose was half of one, which I followed. They were definitely stronger but I expected this. I was good the first week or so, but then started noticing I would get clumsier, absent minded dizzy and slightly nauseous.
A few weeks ago, I took the recommended dose and felt like I was hit by a train. I was literally questioning my existence. I had crazy cotton mouth, dizziness and awful nausea. Spent the better part of 4 hours laying on the bathroom floor vomiting and almost on the verge of a panic attack. The only thing that kept me somewhat calm was knowing that it eventually would pass and I wasn’t going to die. Felt like I had a full blown hangover the next day which was probably just dehydration and low blood sugar since it was impossible to eat.
I’m still not sure if it was the d8 itself or maybe some other suspect ingredient or chemical used in the extraction process. A friend of mine who works at a dispensary said it was most likely the anxiety causing me to throw up.
Needless to say they went straight into the garbage and I’m now trying a low dose D9 lozenge which is 2.5 mg per.
The D8 gummies I was using were Torch brand XXL
I’m sorry to hear about your tough experience with Delta-8 THC vape pens and edibles. Side effects like dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, and even severe reactions you described are possible. The harshness might stem from the chemical processes used to convert hemp-derived CBD into Delta-8 THC, potentially introducing harmful substances.
The lack of regulation for these products might also increase the risk of dangerous contaminants, which suggests the problem could be the extraction process or other ingredients. Switching to a low dose Delta-9 product, which is naturally occurring, involves safer extraction methods, and comes under stricter regulations, is often advised.
Listening to your body is key, and it’s good that you’re exploring alternatives that feel right. Trying lower doses or different cannabinoids can help. I hope your new choice brings you relief and better experiences.
I’ve been sick for about a week. Nausea, weak stomach and dizziness. I recently moved to a new area and am forced to buy delta 8 and hhc products from a headshop. I am 100% sure it’s the d8 and hhc product. Switching back to regular d9 bud today. Hoping this nausea goes away because I start a new job Monday. I use thc for mental health reasons.
Hi Bobby. I’m sorry to hear you’ve been feeling unwell, but appreciate your sharing your experience. It’s important to listen to your body, especially when introducing new substances. Switching back to what you know works for you sounds like a wise decision. Good luck with your new job on Monday, and I hope you feel better soon!
I use to be a regular weed smoker but quit several years for a job I had, recently I tried a delta 8 vape and got just as high as I did off of delta 9 flower..I quit using because it was very harsh on my lungs and had to hit it 20 times a week later to get same results..I noticed I had cotton mouth way worse and even had a couple days after quitting.. after reading all the comments it gos to show you how messed up the laws are in some states..I can’t legally smoke a natural plant with out facing legal issues,but I can legally smoke something that has very little regulations and can cause more harm then good..makes no sense..just like alcohol being legal and marijuana not..was an alcoholic from age 17 to the age of 35..I’m still paying for the alcoholic life and have been sober for around 17 yrs.. sorry,kinda went off topic,just makes me mad that they can sell poison and not a natural plant..
Hi Daniel. I’m sorry to hear of your struggles. It’s unfortunate how the legal system treats cannabis compared to other substances aand very frustrating that a natural plant faces more legal scrutiny than substances that can be harmful. Your journey from alcoholism to sobriety adds another layer to the discussion. Thank you for sharing your perspective. Sending healing vibes your way.