Delta-8 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is one of the many naturally occurring cannabinoids from the hemp plant. For decades, it has been left on the sidelines of scientific research as the focus remained on compounds like CBD and delta-9 THC.

But recently, under the Farm Bill of 2018, delta-8 is now considered one of a handful of legal hemp-derived cannabinoids. This means delta-8 is legal on a federal level, though some regions are pushing back with state laws. 

The debut of delta-8 in the marketplace represents an exciting step forward for hemp products overall. From classic balanced tinctures to delta-8 and delta-9 THC gummies with varying ratios, our Above collection has something for everyone.

How does delta-8 interact with the body?

Delta-8 interacts with the body through the endocannabinoid system. This vast, branching network of neurotransmitters is headquartered in the brain but encompasses nearly every part of the body and its various systems. The ECS plays a role in a huge range of functions, such as muscle and joint comfort, sleep regulation, mood, and much more.*

When delta-8 enters the bloodstream, it binds with CB1 receptors of the ECS, which mainly govern the cerebral effects of the hemp experience. Meanwhile, delta-8 also interacts with CB2 receptors, which are responsible for the full-body feeling that many hemp users love. 

This combination of mind and body effects makes delta-8 a unique cannabinoid, and one that offers a lighter, milder type of high compared more other types of hemp products. 

Does delta-8 contribute to the entourage effect?

The entourage effect occurs when multiple cannabinoids and terpenes interact with the ECS at the same time, creating synergistic effects. With our Above lineup of delta-8 products, we made the entourage effect a top priority, not a footnote.

Every one of these products, from our Above + Beyond Live Resin CBD Gummies to our Full Spectrum Delta-8 CBD Hemp Oil Tincture, is designed to combine the forces of several cannabinoids and supporting terpenes, all in one powerful package. 

Multiple compounds are at play here, so your ECS gets the benefit of natural hemp as it's meant to. The entourage effect keeps your endocannabinoid system happy and healthy, with a full range of diverse compounds teaming up for wellness benefits. That means deeper relaxation, more soothing relief, and holistic uplifting effects — all from one streamlined hemp extract product.

How is delta-8 different from delta-9?

Delta-8 and delta-9 are often mentioned together as cannabinoid siblings, and for good reason. Delta-8 has a slightly different chemical structure from delta-9 THC, as its double bond is on the eighth carbon chain instead of the ninth. While the chemistry is subtle, it leads to changes in how our bodies and minds respond to a serving of delta-8.

While delta-9 is known for its intense binding affinity to CB1 receptors of the ECS, delta-8 is considerably subtler and more refined. This leaves users with a clearer head, better cognitive capacity, and the ability to handle more complex inputs and outputs during mental or physical activity. That’s why many users find delta-8 to be more suitable for daytime use or creative productivity, as opposed to the full-on relaxation induced by some delta-9 strains.

Of course, our Above product line allows you to curate your hemp experience. Whether you want a more delta-8-focused approach or enjoy the combination of delta-8 and delta-9, there’s a product that suits your lifestyle and wellness needs.

From the Farm Bill to the legalization movement in recent years, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is finally more accessible than ever. While some prefer to shop at dispensaries, others prefer to have delta-9 products shipped discretely to their door. 

These changes happened fast, but for those seeking high-quality hemp plant extracts and with trusted delta-9, there has never been a better time than now. 

Sunmed now presents its Delta-9 THC Beyond collection, featuring a diverse array of premium THC products with carefully curated cannabinoid ratios for every experience level and every need. Here’s what you need to know.*

Delta-9 THC is the world’s most widely recognized cannabinoid. It’s the compound responsible for producing hemp’s signature psychoactive effects, with a host of recreational and therapeutic applications.

Delta-9 was long considered a controlled substance, but shifts in the legal landscape have made it more accessible to those seeking relaxation, comfort, and soothing relief. The Beyond Delta-9 collection has everything you need to explore the world of THC with intelligence and intention.

Through our research and third-party testing, we’ve found that delta-9 is a complex compound that offers much more than an intoxicating effect. When paired with the right cannabinoid profile and terpenes, delta-9 can offer balance, clarity, comfort, and general quality of life improvements for those who use it properly. 

Our Beyond Delta-9 collection exists to make THC an approachable lifestyle supplement, with premium cannabinoid ratios formulated for your specific need — better sleep, daytime stimulation, or routine relief. 

How does delta-9 interact with the body?

Delta-9 interacts with the body through the receptors of the endocannabinoid system. This network of cells and neurotransmitters plays a role in many of the body’s most critical functions, from sleep and stress to mood regulation and cognitive clarity.*

When we ingest delta-9, it targets and binds with CB1 receptors, which are mainly concentrated in the brain and central nervous system. This can change our sensory perception, heighten sensitivity to stimuli, and induce a sense of physical relaxation. 

CB2 receptors are also targeted by delta-9, providing deep soothing effects and supporting processes like recovery and rest. Whether you’re winding down from a hard workout or enjoying a low-key evening routine, the right delta-9 formula can make all the difference.*

Remember, the endocannabinoid system is complex, and compounds like delta-9 address imbalances throughout the entire body. Wherever you’re at on a physical or mental level, delta-9 meets you there and can help bring your body back to balance.

Does delta-9 contribute to the entourage effect?

We usually think of CBD as being at the center of the entourage effect, but let’s not forget the role of delta-9. After all, the entourage effect requires several different compounds to work its magic, and delta-9 is part of the supporting cast that makes it happen.*

Our Beyond product line is developed with the entourage effect in mind, as every product balances delta-9 with other cannabinoids and terpenes. Even if you’re in the market for a product that mainly features delta-9, we find that users have a better, more well-rounded experience when secondary cannabinoids are present. 

Live resin brings something new to the world of hemp. It’s a unique extraction method that involves flash-freezing live hemp plants to obtain a robust concentrate that reflects a true-plant cannabinoid and terpene profile. Live resin brings you closer to the genuine experience of a real indica or sativa, in a more subtle, convenient format.

Rather than reaching for pre-rolls, vapes, or flower, live resin captures the essence of hemp in a more accessible and concentrated form. You still get all the benefits you want from your favorite flower, but the experience is streamlined, simple, more consistent, and ultimately healthier for your body.* 

Plus, you get to decide your ratio of CBD to delta-9 and other hemp compounds with our Beyond collection. Want to prioritize energizing CBG as part of your routine with a THC kick? Our 1:1:1 Sativa Live Resin Gummies will get you amped up and focused. Ready to kick back and call it a night in preparation for deep sleep? These 1:1:1 Live Resin Indica Gummies contain equal parts CBN, CBD, and THC, serving as a powerful, natural sleep aid.*

Sativa is known for its more energizing, cerebral, and uplifting effects compared to the more relaxing and full-body experience of indica. Our Beyond product line reflects these differences and gives you plenty of options to choose from.

Sativa can help you wake up and feel alert for a day in the sunshine, while indica is better suited for an afternoon on the couch. This collection also includes hybrid blends and delta-8, a minor compound from the hemp plant, to bring some more variety to our edibles and tinctures. 

Of course, everyone responds to these strains differently, so we encourage smart experimentation and starting with small serving sizes to see what works best for you. 

Sunmed’s Beyond collection showcases hemp-derived cannabinoids from gummies to tinctures and water solubles. You might already love the effects of delta-9 THC or full spectrum CBD, but what’s the best way to take them? Whether you prefer the long-lasting convenience of gummies or the fast-acting versatility of water solubles, these hemp products give you the benefits of delta-9 exactly how you want them. 

The main difference between our delivery methods is how long it takes to feel the effects and how long they last. Visit our delivery methods education if you’re still on the fence about which hemp-derived products will enhance your lifestyle the most. 

Sources:

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol: Separating the chemicals from the “weed,” a pharmacodynamic discussion | NIH

Actions of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in cannabis | NIH

Pharmacological Aspects and Biological Effects of Cannabigerol and Its Synthetic Derivatives | NIH

Cannabis Phytomolecule 'Entourage': From Domestication to Medical Use | ScienceDirect

Cannabinoid Receptors in the Central Nervous System | Frontiers