The Dark Side of Delta 8: The Dangers of Delta 8 Gummies (And How to Avoid Them)

by Martin B. · May 16, 2023

With the hemp market boom following the Farm Bill of 2018, hemp-derived delta 8 products, and most predominantly delta 8 gummies, have skyrocketed in popularity. They’re widely accessible and federally legal, and users can even get them shipped straight to their doors with no problem.

But with a bigger market, some issues have also risen. They can be inconsistent in dosing, there’s not yet much research available on delta 8 as a compound itself, and most worrisomely, there’s a lack of regulation in the hemp industry.

Delta 8 edibles can be incredibly beneficial, that much is true, but they can also pose risks and dangers for users. Let’s take a look at some of the most prevalent problems surrounding delta 8 gummies.

Inconsistency

One of the biggest problems with delta 8 gummies is their inconsistency. Because the FDA does not regulate the production or distribution processes of hemp-derived products, buying delta 8 gummies from one provider can result in vastly different effects than another, even if they claim to contain the same amount of delta 8 THC. As a result, predicting how a particular delta 8 gummy will affect you is kind of a shot in the dark.

Additionally, delta 8 gummies are also inconsistent to dose because cannabis affects different people in different ways, but this isn’t a problem exclusive to delta 8 gummies or even cannabis in general. Our tolerance levels depend on several individual factors, such as age, weight, and metabolism.

In the same way medication dosages can be increased or decreased depending on total body mass, users may need to dose delta 8 based on their weight. However, this problem can’t really be fixed—it’s a trait of human physiology.

Interactions With Other Substances

As a chemical compound, delta 8 can interact with any other medication you may be taking. This can result in complications such as increased drowsiness, reduced heart and breathing rates, extreme confusion, and short-term memory loss.

Some common drug types that can result in dangerous interactions with cannabis include:

Sedatives
Anti-anxiety medications
Antidepressants
Pain relievers
Anticonvulsants
Anticoagulants

When taking prescription medication, it is absolutely essential to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before incorporating delta 8 into your routine in order to avoid any risks or dangerous interactions.

Lack of Regulation

As previously mentioned, the delta 8 industry is largely unregulated, which can lead to some trouble—especially for consumers. Without strict rules, it’s not easy to ensure the quality and safety of these products.

Different manufacturers use different extraction and infusion methods, different cannabinoid compound blends, and also show discrepancies in other safety measures. This results in a wildly unpredictable variability from one brand of products to another.

It also means that, because unregulated, these products can contain dangerous chemicals.

Possibility of Contamination

As a result of an incredible lack of regulation, not all hemp products on the market are lab tested to ensure purity, potency, and safety. But this doesn’t mean that finding safe and uncontaminated hemp products is impossible.

Although some delta 8 companies are in it for a quick buck, using shady extraction methods and adding dubious and unnecessary chemicals in order to cut some corners, other manufacturers actually take the quality of their products—and user safety—seriously.

The possibility of contamination will remain as long as this industry is allowed to continue to operate unregulated, but you can generally avoid contamination dangers by shopping mindfully: check for lab tests; research about the companies you’re considering; and if a product doesn’t feel right, stop using it immediately.

Little Research Available

Although delta 8 itself was discovered in the 1960s, its true potential has been hiding in plain sight for decades. Following the Farm Bill, the compound rose to popularity and became more widespread than ever before.

Because it’s only been a few years since its rise in use, there is very limited research available on its potential effects and benefits. Due to its proximity to delta 9 THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that has been studied for decades, delta 8 is generally considered equally as safe.

We know for a fact that using delta 8 isn’t life-threatening or cause any intense long-term effects, but the true scope of its use is yet to be determined by further research from the scientific community.

Negative Reactions

Although delta 8 is regarded as a safe compound, it can cause some negative reactions, especially when taken in higher doses.

Some people have reported experiencing adverse reactions after consuming delta 8 gummies. These reactions can include anxiety, paranoia, and even hallucinations. If you experience these symptoms after eating a delta 8 gummy, discontinue use and consult your doctor.

Life Hacks 420: Avoiding the Downsides of Delta 8 Gummies

It may all seem like doom and gloom, but our intention here wasn’t to bum you out or scare you out of using delta 8. Let’s leave that to the D.A.R.E officers, right?

Delta 8 can be dangerous, but not because it’s a “gateway drug” or inherently bad for your body. Rather, this lack of safety is a result of a failure of the hemp industry, but not all companies are looking to rip you off.

The best way to avoid the most dangerous downsides to delta 8 is to always buy your hemp products from reputable, trustworthy sources. When shopping for delta 8, look for third-party lab tests, find out how they grow their hemp, make sure they’re not adding any shady chemicals to your product.

If you find a reputable source that you know to be trustworthy and transparent, stick to their products. After all, the inconsistencies in different delta 8 brands makes it much harder to scope out how a product will affect you.

In essence, just do your own research before blindly buying from a company. Our pick? Diamond CBD. They not only check all the boxes, but they’re also deeply transparent and effective thanks to decades of experience in the industry.

Some other tips to follow in order to avoid having a bad time while on delta 8 include:

Consult with your doctor before using, especially if taking other medications.
Avoid mixing with other substances, including alcohol.
Dose correctly and in accordance with your tolerance level. If it’s your first time, take a lower dose than you think you can handle and work up (or down) from there.
Stay informed on the latest research and scientific discoveries on delta 8.

Encountering Issues with Delta 8: What to Do

If you experience any adverse reactions or negative side effects after taking delta 8 gummies, stop using them immediately.

If your side effects consist of paranoia, anxiety, or a fast heartbeat, you’ve likely overindulged. Find a comfortable place to rest and let the effects of the gummies walk away. If you suspect your gummies were contaminated, consult a healthcare professional and report the manufacturer to the proper authorities.

Overall, the best way to avoid any issues with delta 8 gummies is to only purchase from reputable and trusted sources and use caution and moderation when consuming them. Remember to always consult with your doctor before using any cannabis products, especially if you are taking other medications.

Delta 8 Gummies: The Final Word

Although delta 8 can be incredibly beneficial for recreational and medical users alike, it can be a little tricky to find a safe and consistent hemp product brand from which to buy your cannabinoids.

Remember, do your research, dose safely, and always consult your doctor before using delta 8, especially when taking prescription medication. It’s important to stay safe and comfortable for a positive and enriching delta 8 experience! Delta Cloudz offer some of the safest products on the market.

Bio
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Martin B.

Ex-smoker, passionate vaper who loves to tell the world about the life-changing potential of vaping. Co-creator of Ecigclopedia with a background in Business & Finance. Prefers a dessert flavored vape and loves to innovate.