Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), also known as delta-8 THC, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. However, unlike the more well-known cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9 THC, cannabis plants only produce delta-8 THC in small quantities.
Interestingly, most of the delta-8 THC used in products is actually synthetic and not derived directly from the plant. This synthetic delta-8 THC is created by applying specific chemicals to hemp-derived CBD. Through this chemical process, the structure of CBD is altered, converting it into delta-8 THC.
It is important to note that the production of delta-8 THC through this process is currently unregulated in the United States. This means that no regulatory agency is overseeing the testing and safety of these products. As a result, it is crucial for consumers to be aware that the chemicals used to convert CBD into delta-8 THC may remain in the final product. Additionally, there is a risk of other contaminants, such as pesticides, heavy metals, and mold, being present in these products.
Why Does Delta 8 Stay In Your System
Delta 8 THC has gained popularity in recent times due to its potential therapeutic effects, but if you’re curious about how long it stays in your system, there are several factors to consider. Understanding these factors can help shed light on the duration of Delta 8 THC’s presence in the body:
Metabolism: Your metabolism plays a crucial role in determining how long Delta 8 THC remains in your system. Metabolism refers to the process by which substances are broken down and eliminated from the body. Individuals with faster metabolisms typically clear Delta 8 THC more quickly compared to those with slower metabolisms.
Body Weight: Your body weight can impact the duration of Delta 8 THC’s presence in your system. People with higher body weights may retain Delta 8 THC for a longer period compared to those with lower body weights. This is because Delta 8 THC can be stored in fat cells, which can slow down its elimination from the body.
Frequency and Dosage: The amount and frequency of Delta 8 THC consumption can influence how long it stays in your system. Higher dosages or more frequent use may result in a longer presence of the compound in your body.
Method of Consumption: The method through which you consume Delta 8 THC can also affect its duration in your system. Inhalation methods, such as vaping, typically lead to faster onset of effects but quicker elimination compared to methods like consuming edibles or using topicals.
Other Different Factors: Various other factors can impact how long Delta 8 THC stays in your system. Age, sex, and overall health are among these factors. For instance, elderly individuals and women generally have slower metabolisms, which can affect the elimination of Delta 8 THC from the body.
How Long Does Delta 8 THC Stay In Your System
The length of time Delta-8 THC remains detectable in the body can vary widely, ranging from a few hours to several weeks or more. The duration is influenced by factors such as the method of consumption and the duration of use.
Cannabinoids, including Delta-8 THC, are stored in the body’s fat cells after ingestion and are gradually released over time. This gradual release can lead to the accumulation of cannabinoids with regular use. Since the chemical structures of Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC are similar, the elimination time of Delta-8 THC is expected to be similar to that of Delta-9 THC.
For occasional users, Delta-8 THC may be detectable for as little as 2 to 5 days. However, for regular users, it can take up to 15 days for the compound to be eliminated from the system. Additionally, individuals with higher amounts of body fat may experience a longer detection window, with Delta-8 THC potentially remaining detectable for as long as 30 days.
It’s important to note that these are general estimates, and individual factors can influence the duration of detection. Metabolism, frequency and quantity of Delta-8 THC consumption, as well as individual variations in physiology, can all contribute to how long the compound remains detectable in the system. It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized information and to consider any legal or employment-related implications related to the detection of Delta-8 THC in the body.