Compound Monograph
Delta 8 THC
Delta-8-THC is a mildly intoxicating THC isomer present in cannabis in small amounts and often produced from hemp-derived CBD.
Where Does It Come From? (1)
Delta 8 THC is a naturally occurring phytocannabinoid (thc isomer), found in Cannabis. It is flagged as moderately toxic.
Research & Evidence
Delta-8-THC is an isomer of delta-9-THC with the double bond in a different position. It occurs naturally in cannabis only in small quantities, so most commercial delta-8 is manufactured by converting hemp-derived CBD. It binds the CB1 cannabinoid receptor and is intoxicating, but is generally described by users as somewhat less potent than delta-9-THC. It became widely available in some markets as a hemp-derived alternative to delta-9 products.
Toxicity & Safety
A central safety concern with delta-8-THC is manufacturing quality: because it is typically synthesised from CBD, products can contain residual reagents, by-products or other unintended cannabinoids, and quality control in the unregulated market has been inconsistent. It shares the general effects of intoxicating cannabinoids and can impair coordination and judgement. Its legal status varies and is contested in several jurisdictions.