How Long Does Delta 8 Stay In Your System (And Why)?

Exact Answer: 2 To 30 Days

Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, or delta 8 THC, is a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis sativa plant. Like Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 THC is one of the 100 cannabinoids produced by the plant. However, it is not present in large quantities. 

Delta 8 THC produces milder euphoric effects than those of delta 9 THC. The difference arises due to variation in the location of a double bond between two carbon molecules. 

Delta 8 THC can stay in the system for 2 to 30 days. 

How Long Does Delta 8 Stay In Your System?

Delta 8 THC remains in the blood or urine in detectable concentrations from 2 to 30 days. However, it may last for up to 90 days in hair follicles. Many variables determine the duration for which THC remains in the system. They include frequency of use, age, consumption method, dosage and interactions with medication or supplements. 

First time Delta 8 THC users show that cannabinoids remain in their system for 3 to 4 days. Occasional users may see it for a week, while regular users have cannabinoids in their bodies for a month. 

Similarly, a higher dosage of the drug lasts for longer than a lesser dosage. Therefore, one must consume a lower dosage in case of a drug test in future. 

Why Does Delta-8 THC Stay So Long In Your System?

The various factors listed above govern the duration for which Delta 8THC remains in the body.  

Firstly, Delta 8THC potency determines how long it stays in the body. Higher concentrations of the drug remain in the system for longer. Secondly, Delta-8 intake via smoking or vaping diminishes faster than when ingested because chemicals break down more slowly.

Delta 8 THC metabolism depends on individual genetics and metabolic rate. The liver breaks down the drugs ingested. Depending on the chemical makeup, specific enzymes process it into the bloodstream. The enzyme that breaks down Delta 8 THC is CYP3A4. The concentration of the enzyme depends on the genetics of the person.  

Some medications and supplements compete with Delta 8 THC for metabolism. Since most drugs and supplements use CYP3A4, additional medicines can slow down the process of Delta 8 THC breakdown. 

The body metabolism slows down with age. Due to loss of muscle tissue, hormonal and neurological changes, our body makes less of the crucial vitamins and minerals. Reduction in compound production can affect how one tolerates psychoactive drugs. One may have a fast high and several side effects. 

Terpenes are a naturally occurring substance in plants. Foods with terpenes, high levels of minerals and vitamins or omega-3 fatty acids may enhance the high. Other foods like lemons and pine nuts reduce the potency of Delta 8 THC.

Lastly, the stronger the dose of the drug, the longer it takes to leave the system. 

Conclusion

Delta 8 THC is a milder type of psychoactive drug from the cannabis plant. It lasts for 2 to 30 days in the blood and urine and 90 days in hair follicles. One must know this duration to avoid unforeseen hardships during drug tests by companies or the police. 

In general, the higher the potency and dose of Delta 8 THC, the longer the metabolites remain in the system. Furthermore, frequent drug users show longer retention of the drug than first-time users. Deep inhalation of Delta 8 THC also increases the concentration of the drug in the system. 

The rate of compound excretion is also affected by factors such as age and genetics. These factors are out of human control. The older a person becomes, the slower the metabolism gets. Additionally, genetics govern the concentration of enzymes that break down Delta 8 THC.

Overall, several factors contribute to how long the drug remains in the body. One can control some but not the others. Hence, to avoid serious scrutiny during drug tests, one must know why and how long delta 8 THC remains in the system

References 

1. https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2009.00399.x
2. https://ascpt.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/cpt1973143353