The Dark Side of Delta 8 THC
Delta 8 THC is a cannabinoid that has exploded in popularity in recent years. It's similar to Delta 9 THC, which is the main psychoactive compound found in marijuana, although it has differences in its molecular structures. D8 THC offers a comparable, although less potent, feeling to Delta 9 THC.
While D9 THC is illegal under US federal law, hemp derived Delta 8 THC is one of the several cannabinoids that was officially rescheduled by the 2018 Agricultural Bill. This means anyone in the US can purchase it, besides those living in a few states..
Unfortunately, not all D8 THC products are created equal. Some companies are producing poorly made products that can be dangerous to consumers. In this article, we'll explore the dangers of poorly made Delta 8 THC and how to find reputable products.
The Dangers of Poorly Made Delta 8 THC
While Delta 8 THC has some potential benefits, poorly made products can pose significant risks to consumers. The biggest danger of poorly made Delta 8 THC is the presence of harmful contaminants.
Contaminants can be introduced during the extraction process or during the manufacturing of Delta 8 THC products. If these contaminants are not properly removed, they can end up in the final product, posing a risk to consumers. Some of the most common contaminants found in poorly made Delta 8 THC products include:
Heavy Metals
Heavy metals, such as lead, arsenic, and mercury, can be present in cannabis plants. These metals can be absorbed from the soil, water, or air, and can be harmful if ingested in high amounts. If Delta 8 THC products are made from contaminated cannabis plants, they can contain dangerous levels of heavy metals.
Pesticides
Cannabis plants are vulnerable to pests and diseases, so growers often use pesticides to protect their crops. However, if these pesticides are not properly removed during the extraction process, they can end up in Delta 8 THC products. Pesticides can be toxic if ingested, and can pose a risk to human health.
Solvents
Some Delta 8 THC products are made using solvents, such as butane or propane, to extract the compound from cannabis plants. If these solvents are not properly removed during the manufacturing process, they can end up in the final product. Inhaling or ingesting solvents can be harmful to human health.
Synthetic Additives
Some companies may add synthetic additives to Delta 8 THC products to enhance their effects or flavor. Others simply add "fillers" in an ill hearted attempt to make more inventory using less expensive ingredients. These additives can be harmful if ingested, and may interact with other medications or substances. Unfortunately, these mystery ingredients become exponentially worse when vaped or smoked, as the oil soluble particulates can coat the cilia in the lungs, and contaminants can enter the blood stream much quicker.
How to Find Reputable Delta 8 THC Products
Finding reputable Delta 8 THC products can be challenging, but it is the key to ensure your safety and wellbeing. Here are some tips to help you find high-quality Delta 8 THC products:
Research the Company
Before purchasing Delta 8 THC products, research the company that produces them. Look for information on their manufacturing process, quality control measures, and third-party lab testing. A reputable company should be transparent about their products and manufacturing practices.
Check for Third-Party Lab Testing
Third-party lab testing is essential for verifying the quality and safety of Delta 8 THC products. Look for products that have been tested by an independent laboratory and have a certificate of analysis available. This certificate should show the levels of Delta 8 THC, as well as any contaminants or additives present in the product.
Read Reviews
Reading reviews from other consumers can provide valuable insights into the quality and effectiveness of Delta 8 THC products. Look for reviews on the company's website, as well as on independent review sites. Be wary of companies that only have positive reviews or no reviews at all, as this could be a sign of fake or manipulated reviews.
Avoid Cheap or Suspiciously Priced Products
While it's tempting to go for cheaper options, Delta 8 THC products that are suspiciously priced or significantly cheaper than the market average could be a red flag. High-quality Delta 8 THC products require a significant investment in manufacturing and testing, so companies that offer extremely low prices may be cutting corners on safety and quality. Pricing that is too low can also imply that the product is cut/ mixed with low quality ingredients.
Conclusion
Delta 8 THC has the potential to offer a range of health benefits, but poorly made products can pose significant risks to consumers. By researching companies, checking for third-party lab testing, reading reviews, avoiding suspiciously priced products, and looking for premium options, you can ensure that you're getting safe and high-quality Delta 8 THC products. The key takeaway is too always prioritize your safety and wellbeing when shopping for anything you want too consume, especially THC.