Do you know what happens when a Delta 8 gummy hits your system? It's not just about popping one and waiting for the magic to happen. The question many who enjoy this want to know is, "How long do Delta 8 gummies last?"
As Delta 8 THC becomes more popular for its unique buzz and because you can legally get it in many places, it's pretty important to dig into how it affects us.
To better understand the differences between the compounds in Delta 8 gummies, it's essential to compare them to other cannabinoids. Check out our detailed guide on THC vs THCA for a deeper dive into their unique properties and effects.
Whether you're new to cannabis products or an experienced user looking into alternatives like edibles, grasping how long these effects linger can redefine your experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Delta 8 THC is a milder cannabinoid compared to Delta 9 THC, producing relaxation and mild euphoria.
- Delta 8 gummies take 30-60 minutes to kick in and can last 3-8 hours, depending on dosage and individual factors.
- Metabolism, body fat, and frequency of use affect how long Delta 8 stays in the system.
- Delta 8 may trigger positive drug tests, as it is similar to Delta 9 THC on a molecular level.
- Proper storage in cool, dry, dark places preserves the potency and freshness of Delta 8 gummies.
Understanding Delta 8 THC and Its Effects
Delta 8 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a substance that can be found in the hemp plant and is not a strong psychoactive. Although it is classified as a type of cannabinoid, it is a very mild one. Delta 8 is often compared to Delta 9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound that is found in marijuana.
However, the difference between the two is their potency. As this substance is only present in small amounts when compared to other substances, it is usually considered a minor cannabinoid.
Delta 8 is federally legal in the United States, whereas Delta 9 is considered an illicit substance. This difference occurs due to its source.
- The hemp plant: As the hemp plant does not even contain up to 0.3% of Delta 9, Delta 8 sourced from it is considered legal.
- The marijuana plant: The marijuana plant, however, can contain as much as 30% of Delta 9 content, making it an illegal source of Delta 8 to be extracted from.
As this makes Delta 8 legal, it is commonly used in many products for its calming effects, including:
- Delta 8 gummies
- Delta 8 soft gel capsules
- Delta 8 pre-rolls
- Delta 8 vape cartridges
- Various other Delta 8 edibles
Similar to Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 is also used for relaxation purposes and may potentially help with pain relief, but it is significantly milder than Delta 9. In addition, Delta 8 is known to induce sensations of Euphoria.
How Does Delta 8 Affect the Body?
Delta 8 THC is very similar to Delta 9 THC in effects but not in molecular structure – which determines how a compound behaves in the body. Even though both activate the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system, the impacts of both are not identical.
CB1 receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system and are responsible for the psychoactive effects of THC. Meanwhile, CB2 receptors hang out more in your immune system and the outskirts of your body, taking charge when it comes to calming down inflammation and easing pain.
When Delta 8 THC binds to these receptors, it can produce various effects, such as:
- Relaxation and stress relief
- Mild euphoria and mood elevation
- Increased appetite
- Pain relief
- Neuroprotection
However, it's important to note that the effects of Delta 8 THC are generally milder compared to Delta 9 THC. This is because Delta 8 THC has a slightly different chemical structure, which makes it less potent at binding to the CB1 receptors in the brain. When considering how long Delta-8 gummies last, this milder effect can be especially beneficial for those looking for a more subtle and prolonged experience.
Delta 8 Edibles: What You Need to Know
When we talk about Delta 8 edibles, what we're referring to are those tasty treats that have been given an extra kick with the addition of the Delta 8 cannabinoid. Although Delta 8 gummies rank as the most popular form of these edibles, there are other Delta 8 edible products currently available in the market, including biscuits and beverages.
There are two ways to create Delta 8 THC edibles. First, Delta 8 is sprayed on the edible as a final touch. In other edibles, the Delta 8 THC is added to the mix before cooking.
Delta 8 THC edibles refer to edible products that have been infused with Delta 8. These include gummies, chocolates, drinks, and other snacks.
Effects of Consuming Delta 8 Edibles
The effects of Delta 8 THC can vary from one person to another. While some may say that the effects are mellower compared to Delta 9 THC, others may say the contrary. This is particularly true for newbies who might try the cannabinoid at a higher dose.
Take note that Delta 8 THC edibles are made differently using various ingredients and levels of potency.
For example, edibles like brownies and cookies contain more fats compared to other Delta 8 THC edibles. Interestingly, having a bit of fat in your meal can speed up how quickly you feel the effects of cannabinoids. Other products like Delta 8 gummies use more sugar along with citric acid to lengthen shelf life.
Although various Delta 9 products are now available in the market, smoking and vaping remain the most popular methods of ingestion. Delta 8 THC, on the other hand, cannot be vaped or smoked in bud form. Instead, Delta 8 products are derived from CBD.
How Long Do Delta 8 Gummies Last?
Delta 8 gummies are tasty and a super easy way to consume Delta 8. So, all it takes from you is a bit of chewing, and down it goes. It typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes to feel the effects of Delta 8 Gummies.
Delta 8 THC gummies and their cannabinoid content are absorbed faster because they bypass the digestive system and liver. Instead, when you eat gummies, Delta 8 THC is gradually absorbed through the capillaries located in your mouth. However, the effects are less intense when compared to other edibles.
Peak Effects Duration
The answer to this question varies a good bit from person to person. Your weight, metabolism, experience with THC, how much Delta 8 you take and other factors can influence the length of time the effects of Delta 8 THC will last.
On average, the effects of Delta 8 Gummies can be felt for three to five hours, but larger serving sizes and a lack of experience, amongst other factors, may extend the length of intoxication.
Depending on the variables that we've listed above, a typical delta 8 gummy high can last anywhere from 3 to 8 hours. This is because edibles are ingested through the mouth, digested through the stomach, and metabolized through the liver.
When they reach the liver, the THC turns into a metabolite called 11-hydroxy-THC, which is stronger than regular THC. This is responsible for why edibles are so potent as well as why the high from them lasts so long.
Factors Influencing Duration
That depends on various factors. In general, the larger the dose you take, the longer the effects will last. This goes for pretty much all Delta 8 goodies out there, including those tasty Delta 8 THC treats.
With edibles, the length of time the effects linger will depend on several factors, including what type of edible you took.
Traditional edibles take a longer time to kick in because they are slowly metabolized by the body. The Delta 8 cannabinoid slowly trickles from the liver and courses through your body. One of the perks of sticking with traditional edibles is how they keep the vibes going for much longer, usually hanging around for six to eight hours.
However, the effects you feel may be considerably milder.
Metabolism of Delta-8 in the Body
Ever wonder what happens to Delta 8 after you take it? Your body has to break it down and process it, just like anything else you consume.
But the way your body metabolizes delta 8 can vary from person to person. So, why don't we dive into the nuts and bolts of this intriguing process?
Breakdown Process of Delta-8
When you ingest Delta 8, whether it's through edibles, tinctures, or vaping, it enters your bloodstream and makes its way to your liver. So, this is the spot where all the cool stuff happens. Your liver is like a big processing plant, and it's responsible for metabolizing delta 8 into various metabolites.
The main enzyme that breaks down delta 8 is called cytochrome P450. This enzyme family is also responsible for metabolizing many other substances, including medications and other cannabinoids like CBD and Delta-9 THC.
Factors Affecting Metabolism Rate
Now, here's the thing - not everyone metabolizes delta 8 at the same rate. Several factors can influence how quickly or slowly your body processes this cannabinoid.
One of the biggest factors is your metabolic rate. If you have a faster metabolism, you might break down Delta 8 more quickly than someone with a slower metabolism.
Another factor that can impact delta 8 metabolism is body composition, particularly body fat percentage. Delta 8 is fat-soluble, which means it can be stored in your body's fat cells. So, if you have a higher body fat percentage, delta 8 may stay in your system longer.
Delta-8 and Drug Testing
One of the most common questions people have about Delta 8 is whether it will show up on a drug test.
The short answer is: it depends. Delta 8 is a form of THC, and many standard drug tests are designed to detect THC metabolites.
However, the specific type of test and the sensitivity of the test can make a big difference.
Can Drug Tests Detect Delta 8?
Most standard drug tests, like urine tests, are looking for delta 9 THC metabolites. However because Delta 8 is so similar to Delta 9 on a molecular level, it can sometimes trigger a positive result. It depends on the specificity of the test and the cutoff levels for detection.
Some more advanced tests, like gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) tests, can differentiate between Delta 8 and Delta 9 metabolites.
But these tests are less common and more expensive, so they're not used as often for routine drug screenings.
How Long is Delta-8 Detectable?
Just like with metabolism, the length of time Delta 8 stays in your system can vary a lot from person to person. In general, Delta 8 metabolites can be detectable in urine for up to 48 hours for infrequent users, and up to 30 days or more for heavy, chronic users.
But there are a lot of variables at play, like how much Delta 8 you've taken, how often you use it, your metabolism, body fat percentage, and hydration levels. So it's really hard to give a one-size-fits-all answer. If you're concerned about passing a drug test, it's best to err on the side of caution and abstain from Delta 8 use for at least a few weeks beforehand.
Proper Storage of Delta 8 Products
If you're going to invest in Delta 8 products, you want to make sure you're storing them properly to maintain their potency and freshness. Improper storage can lead to the degradation of the active compounds, which means you won't get the full effects you're looking for.
Storing Delta 8 Gummies for Optimal Shelf Life
Delta 8 gummies are one of the most popular forms of this cannabinoid, and they can have a pretty decent shelf life if stored correctly. The key is to keep them in a cool, dry, dark place. Exposure to heat, light, and humidity can all speed up the degradation process.
Ideally, you want to store your Delta 8 gummies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. By doing this, you'll keep their effectiveness and texture tip-top for the longest time possible. If you don't have room in the fridge, a cool, dark cupboard or drawer will work too. Just make sure to keep them away from any heat sources like stoves or sunlight.
Signs of Expired Delta 8 Products
Even with proper storage, delta 8 products won't last forever. As time goes by, the powerful ingredients in your products might not pack the same punch they used to. So how can you tell if your Delta 8 gummies or other products have gone bad?
One of the most obvious signs is a change in smell or taste. If your gummies start to smell funky or taste off, it's probably time to toss them.
You might also notice changes in texture, like hardening or melting. And if you see any signs of mold or discoloration, definitely throw them out immediately.
Most reputable Delta 8 brands will include an expiration date on the packaging. But as a general rule of thumb, products that are stored properly should stay fresh for at least 6 months to a year. If you're unsure, it's always better to err on the side of caution and replace any questionable products with fresh ones.
Discover High-Quality Gummies at Uproar Wellness
So here we are at the end of our exploration - it turns out that "How long do delta 8 gummies last" isn't such a straightforward query after all.
From digestion times to personal metabolic rates and everything in between, numerous variables play into how we experience these subtly powerful treats.
Just remember; that moderation is key as you navigate this space filled with potential benefits awaiting those who approach responsibly.
For more information or to buy your Delta 8 gummies, contact Uproar Wellness today!