Yes, Delta-8 does get consumers high, but it is often referred to as a milder high than its more famous cousin Delta-9 THC. Some marketers refer to it as “marijuana lite” for this reason, although the molecule doesn’t actually appear in the marijuana plant and has to be created in a lab.

It’s seen as milder because the Delta-8 molecule itself has a lower affinity to bind to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, which makes it less psychoactive than other cannabinoids.[1] Users report feeling relaxed, sleepy, and forgetful after using Delta-8 products, which is a familiar description for those who consume marijuana. An important difference to keep in mind, however, is that “delta-8” products very often include delta-9 and other cannabinoids,[2] plus additional chemicals that were used in the manufacturing process which is not yet fully researched.

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