THC, more commonly known as cannabis, has a reputation that precedes it. But did you know that there are other molecules that are related to it, even though they’re slightly different?
This is precisely the case with Delta 8 THC, or delta-8-THC. It is a form of tetrahydrocannabinol whose popularity has literally skyrocketed in the United States, where its use is completely legal. However, the laws on this matter are not exactly the same in France.
THC, Delta-8 THC, psychoactive effects, and legal status (or lack thereof) in France—here’s everything you need to know!
What is Delta-8 THC?
Tetrahydrocannabinol. It’s certainly a strange name, but most users know it better as THC. From a scientific standpoint, tetrahydrocannabinol is the molecule responsible for the psychoactive effects attributed to THC. THC is primarily composed of delta-9-THC.
Delta-8-THC, on the other hand, has a different chemical formula, in that its molecules are not arranged in the same way. However, it’s important to note that most commercially available Delta-8-THC is synthetic, even though delta-8 occurs naturally in the hemp plant. Yes, it exists in its natural form, but in such minuscule amounts that it falls into the category known as “ minor .”
The Psychoactive Effects of Delta-8 THC
Just like THC, Delta 8 THC is primarily characterized by its psychoactive effects. Euphoria, general relaxation, stress reduction, and a feeling of being high are the most common—and most sought-after—examples of these effects.
Its effects on the body—whether visible or not—are fully comparable to those of THC: increased heart rate, red eyes, a dry mouth, slowed reaction time, and even anxiety and paranoia. The fact that Delta 8 THC is considered a minor cannabinoid does not mean that its effects should be taken lightly. Far from it.
The Differences Between Delta-8-THC and Delta-9-THC
It’s easy to think that delta-8-THC and delta-9-THC are very similar because their names are so close (differing by only one number). And yet, there is one difference worth noting: the potency of their effects.
We’ve already discussed what delta-8-THC is. As for delta-9-THC, studies show that its effects are about 60% stronger than those of delta-8. While their chemical structures are very similar, their respective potencies remain quite different.
Delta-8 THC, a completely legal substance … in the United States
Yes, Delta-8 THC is legal—but on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean! Except in New York, the only U.S. state where Delta-8 THC is strictly prohibited.
Since 2018 and the update to the U.S. Farm Bill, U.S. law has authorized the sale and consumption of the well-known Delta 8 THC. Why? Because American scientists believe that Delta-8 THC is similar enough to CBD to be subject to the same regulations. Thus, in the United States, Delta-8 THC and CBD are both authorized for over-the-counter sale without fear of any penalties. However, the legal reality is quite different in France. Let’s take a closer look at what French law says on this subject.
Delta-8 THC in France: It's illegal!
Well, no— in France, Delta-8 THC isn’t legal. And it’s not likely to be any time soon. By the way, you can find these products right here in our CBD shop.
Unlike the United States, our beloved France considers Delta-8 THC to be far too unstable, dangerous, and still poorly understood to be legalized. This is entirely understandable when we consider how long it took just to legalize CBD.
Under French law, products containing no more than 0.3% THC are permitted. However, this limit applies only to standard THC, not to the delta-8 molecule. In general, it is important to note that France strictly prohibits all tetrahydrocannabinols and classifies them as narcotics. Between the lack of long-term data on the actual effects of delta-8 and its striking similarities to THC—whose psychoactive effects are specifically prohibited in France—the reasons for its prohibition are mounting.
What about the dangers of delta-8-THC?
It is true that studies have been conducted on delta-8 and its effects on rats, monkeys, and dogs. The results of these studies showed that it exhibited no obvious toxicity and therefore posed no official danger. However, it is important to note that these studies were conducted under strictly controlled conditions, particularly regarding the maximum dosage of 9,000 mg per kilogram of body weight.
It’s important to keep in mind that delta-8-THC sellers take advantage of the lack of regulation to set their own standards for potency. This results in products that are far less stable than those containing CBD, for example. Vitamin E acetate and very high THC levels are just a few examples of the toxic hazards that such unregulated products can pose.
