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Delta-8-THC might seem like a recent addition to the world of cannabinoids, but its origins date back several decades. So, when was Delta-8 discovered? Delta-8-THC was first identified in the 1940s by pioneering cannabinoid researcher Roger Adams. Despite its long history, it has only recently gained prominence in the hemp industry.
Table of Contents
The Discovery of Delta-8-THC
Cannabis Research Limitations
When Was Delta-8-THC Discovered in Hemp?
Where to Buy Delta-8-THC Today
Resources
Delta-8-THC history can be dated back to 1941 when Roger Adams, an American organic Chemist, was the first to publish an article regarding the partial synthesis of Delta-8-THC. Shortly after, he and his colleagues at the University of Illinois began researching the psychoactive properties of Delta-8 and Delta-9.
Total synthesis of the Delta-8-THC was reportedly achieved in 1965 by Raphael Mechoulam, an Israeli organic chemist who is often referred to as “the father of cannabis.” The article depicting the full pharmacology of Delta-8 and other cannabinoids wasn’t published until 1970, however.
At the time of discovery, Delta-8-THC was frequently referred to as Delta-6-THC (Δ6-THC), but has been more accurately renamed Delta-8-THC as we’ve learned more about the whole molecule and its double bond placement (which is at carbon chain position 8).
Although Delta-8-THC was discovered in the early 1940’s, most Delta-8 research was halted in the United States when cannabis was ruled illegal under the Controlled Substances Act in 1970.
After this law was passed, Cannabis research required a special government permit that wasn’t frequently granted. When it was, it was commonly used to research the more abundant psychoactive cannabinoid, Delta-9-THC.
Under the Controlled Substances Act, Delta-8-THC was deemed illegal under U.S. federal law, and Delta-8 products could only be found in certain state-licensed dispensaries in areas where cannabis is legal.
Delta-8-THC accessibility changed, however, when it was recognized as a hemp-derivative and hemp was officially legalized under the 2018 Farm Bill.
It’s important to note that Raphael Mechoulam carried out his research in Israel and was not subject to the same laws as U.S. researchers. He and his colleagues continued research on Delta-8-THC (and many other cannabinoids) for decades.
His work on Delta-8 was frequently scrutinized, however, since it was only available in trace amounts in many cannabis strains, and was therefore difficult to source in the amounts needed for therapeutic doses.
Mechoulam’s work on Delta-8 began to make more sense when he filed for a patent in the early 2000’s regarding a process called “isomerization” which successfully converts CBD to Delta-8-THC. (Read “Here’s How Delta-8-THC is Made” to learn more about the isomerization process.)
CBD, the most abundant cannabinoid found in legal hemp, is now much more accessible even in the U.S. where cannabis is federally prohibited. A variety of different isomerization methods are used today to convert high-quality CBD to Delta-8-THC, which makes legal Delta-8 accessible in many states across the U.S.
The journey of understanding cannabinoids extends far beyond just Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC. Here’s a concise timeline of key discoveries in the history of cannabinoids:
As research continues, the cannabis field will likely unveil even more cannabinoids and their effects. Stay tuned for ongoing updates in cannabinoid science.
Don’t let Delta-8’s popularity fool you—it isn’t a new, unsubstantiated trend. Delta-8 has been around for decades, and prominent cannabinoid researchers have been evaluating it’s medicinal potential for years.
Luckily, Delta-8-THC is now legal in most U.S. states, and can be ordered online and shipped directly to your door. Our entire selection of Delta-8-THC products is 100% Farm Bill compliant and made according to stringent legal and quality standards, and ships to all areas where Delta-8 is legal in the U.S.
Delta-8 THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in small amounts in cannabis and hemp plants. However, the majority of Delta-8 products are synthesized from CBD through a chemical process, as natural Delta-8 is found in too low of concentrations for mass production.
Yes, Delta-8 is psychoactive, but its effects are milder compared to Delta-9 THC. Users report a smoother, more relaxing high with less anxiety or paranoia than what’s commonly associated with Delta-9.
Yes, Delta-9 THC is stronger than Delta-8 THC. Delta-9 is more potent and produces more intense psychoactive effects, while Delta-8 is known for providing a lighter, more clear-headed experience.
Yes, Delta-8 can show up on drug tests. Standard drug tests typically screen for THC metabolites, and since Delta-8 metabolizes similarly to Delta-9, it can trigger a positive result.
No, Delta-8 is not legal in all 50 states. While it's federally legal due to the 2018 Farm Bill, several states have enacted laws banning or restricting Delta-8 THC, so it's important to check your local regulations.
Research on the long-term effects of Delta-8 is limited. Like other cannabinoids, prolonged use could potentially lead to tolerance, dependence, or cognitive effects, but more studies are needed to fully understand its long-term impact.
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