Delta-8: A New Low In Highs

Most Americans are familiar with the term "THC" at this point. What they might not yet appreciate is that common nomenclature is actually referring to Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or "Delta-9" THC. That's the scientific terminology for the molecule in marijuana that's well-known for its psychoactive properties-i.e., what causes a "high." Delta-9 is a cannabinoid and there are hundreds of different cannabinoids within any given cannabis plant.

But, while Delta-9 THC is the compound routinely sold as marijuana, it's not the only cannabinoid with psychoactive properties found in the cannabis (marijuana or hemp) plant. Another compound, Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol ("Delta-8"), also causes a "high," albeit perhaps a weaker one.¹ Like Delta-9, Delta-8 contains tetrahydrocannabinol, or "THC."