Delta 8 Gummies
Nothing is sweeter than Delta 8, except for Delta 8 gummies! Delta 8 being consumed as an edible has become a very popular method of consumption, it’s easy to use and convenient but let's go over the unique advantages and disadvantages compared to vaping.
Let’s dive into the science! Unlike inhalation where effects occur almost immediately after use, edibles can take anywhere from 1 to 2 or more hours (depending on the person) to take effect. Unlike vaping where THC is absorbed in the lungs and into the bloodstream then metabolized, edibles are absorbed in the stomach and further metabolized by different enzymes. A unique advantage of this is that it leads to higher peak levels of specifically active THC metabolites compared to inhalation which carry its own unique effects separate from THC on its own. Metabolites are different compounds that are formed inside of the body after consumption of another compound. Almost all substances from foods to drugs and supplements are metabolized in a similar way.
Unique metabolites such as 11-Hydroxy-THC is psychoactive and are believed to contribute greatly to the effects of edible THC. For example, 11-Hydroxy-THC has been demonstrated to have a longer duration of action overall when compared to THC alone and may have slightly higher activity at both the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. Although experiences are variable, many users report a much heavier “stoning”, “couchlock”, “body relaxation” effect in comparison to vaped Delta 8 THC which may be especially useful for sleep and calming down after a hard day. Those who find vaping unpleasant may especially benefit from using edibles instead.
Structurally the only difference between Delta-8-THC and 11-Hydroxy-Delta-8-THC is the addition of a hydroxyl group (oxygen bonded to hydrogen) to the 11 position of its C ring. It’s generally believed adding an additional hydroxyl group to this position of most cannabinoids can increase or change its potency and overall effect as it increases, they hydrogen acceptor ability, think of it like how a magnet attracts another magnet, it makes this attraction power more efficient. For example, THC itself has a hydroxy group on the 1 position of its A ring but if this hydroxy group is removed it results in significantly weaker effects In terms of CB1 and CB2 binding. The additional hydroxy group added to the 11 position of the C ring is believed to similarly enhance this effect.
This conversion magic is due to the enzyme CYP2C9, which processes many different cannabinoids in the same way, such as creating 11-Hydroxy-CBD from CBD and 11-Hydroxy-HHC from Hexahydrocannabinol and so on. While smoking and vaping still forms 11-Hydroxy-THC, using THC orally (by mouth) results in significantly higher levels of 11-Hydroxy-THC in comparison which likely contributes greatly to the unique effect of edibles and as such may be a great treat for those looking for a unique change to their THC effect or possibly even an improved effect they find to be more beneficial than smoking or vaping THC alone.
The gelatin formulation of the delta 8 gummies themselves, in addition to being absolutely delicious, may help increase bioavailability of D8-THC, basically acting as a “chauffeur” to help THC get to where it needs to go easier after being absorbed in the stomach.
It's important to know some people can react differently to edibles and what dose might be great for one person may be too much for another. People's bodies can have different functioning levels of different enzymes such as the CYP2C9 enzyme and related enzymes that further metabolize THC. the effects of an edible may be delayed by over 1 to 2 hours or more. It’s always recommended to start low and slow to see how edibles effect you before working up to a higher dosage.
New to edibles? You’re in the right place! delta 8 gummies often taste better than other edible types as well as having a better texture with the Delta-8-THC infused into it, blending in both taste and texture for an enjoyable eating experience that truly tastes as good as candy gummies making them ideal for those looking for a yummy way to use Delta 8! For this reason, it’s important to keep edibles in its original package locked, secured away out of access from children and pets.