Is Delta-8 Legal in Maine?

Nikhil Goswami

One of the advantages of the advancements in the fields of science and technology is the global reform in the laws concerning the legality of cannabis products. Since primitive times, humans have used the marijuana plant for its healing qualities, and it is still available for everyone to use and enjoy health benefits.

Correspondingly, scientific proof supporting the potential medical and recreational benefits of the cannabis plant has played an integral role in clearing up all misconceptions about it.

The cannabis plant has over a hundred cannabinoids that induce their unique effects on the body. Among them, delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the most prevalent chemicals.

While CBD has herbal properties and gives cannabis its medicinal attributes, delta-9 THC is a psychoactive compound that produces a high. After the worldwide decriminalization of cannabis, another cannabinoid, delta-8 THC, has caught the attention of many cannabis enthusiasts.

What is Delta-8 THC?

After decriminalizing cannabis in many regions, another cannabinoid, delta-8 THC, caught people’s attention. It is also a cannabinoid derived from the plant Cannabis sativa.

Chemically, delta-8 is an isomer of its more famous counterpart, delta-9. Nevertheless, unlike CBD and delta-9, it is only present in trace amounts. Correspondingly, in a plant with up to 30% THC, its delta-8 content may be only 1%.

Both these chemicals get their names from the location of the double bond. In delta-8, the double bond is present on the eighth carbon. Meanwhile, the double bond is present on the ninth carbon of delta-9.

Delta-8 is a byproduct of delta-9 degradation under exposure to light and oxygen. Furthermore, its potency is relatively less than that of THC. Not to mention, delta-8 has fewer side effects. In terms of medical and health benefits, delta-8 and delta-9 are similar.

The longer shelf-life and long-lasting effects of delta-8 are the primary reasons for the increase in its demand. However, because of the slight difference between the chemical structure and its effects, delta-8 falls under a different legal classification.

Is Delta-8 Legal in Maine

Given the experimental data that prove the potential benefits of medical and recreational cannabis, countries worldwide have made amends in their legislation. Correspondingly, the Farm Bill 2018 decriminalized the cultivation, possession, and consumption of hemp-derived products.

Nevertheless, the legality of the products is conditional on the presence of less than 0.3% THC. Consequently, products that exceed the THC content given by the legal guidelines are labeled illegal. However, the lack of clear definitions has created a legal gray area.

In response to the change in federal legislation, Maine made amends in the state laws for the legalization of hemp. On a positive note, state laws have precise definitions. As per the Marijuana Legalization Act of the state, hemp includes all cannabinoids of the cannabis plant.

However, the THC concentration must be below 0.3% in these plant materials. Moreover, the same applies to hemp derivatives and extracts, including marijuana concentrates, topical like marijuana ointment, food additives, and food products derived from legally harvested marijuana.

The state also has adult-use marijuana regulations that clearly define the products that are legal for medical and recreational use. Moreover, it states the conditions and licensing process of marijuana products.

In addition, the state brought reforms in the Controlled Substances Act to exclude hemp-containing products from the definition of marijuana products. A detailed breakdown of the definitions of the state’s amended law is as follows:

Industrial Hemp Definition

Hemp refers to a species of Cannabis sativa and includes all parts of the plant. Additionally, hemp derivatives and extracts are also included. Not to mention, all the chemical compounds in the plant, i.e., cannabinoids, salts, isomers, etc., also come under the definition of hemp.

However, the delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of all these products should not exceed 0.3% on a dry weight basis. Furthermore, hemp also includes agricultural commodities, topical, and ingestible products.

Correspondingly, food products and food additives that have less than 0.3% THC in their final form come under the definition of hemp. On the other hand, the definition of hemp does not include medical marijuana.

Definition of Marijuana Products

Marijuana products refer to products that consist of harvested marijuana along with other ingredients made for medical purposes. This definition neither includes marijuana concentrate, nor a hemp product, as defined in the law. Instead, “Marijuana product” refers to edibles, topicals, oils, tinctures, etc.

Defining Marijuana & Marijuana Concentrate

According to the law, “Marijuana” refers to the parts of the marijuana plant. These have lower CBD content and higher concentration of THC. Nevertheless, the definition does not include marijuana concentrates. However, it excludes the products defined as hemp.

On the other hand, the definition of marijuana concentrate includes the resin obtained from the plant. In addition, the later derivatives, compounds, mixtures, salts, and any other product made using this resin are also a part of the definition. However, this does not include hemp-derived resins.

Where to Buy Delta-8 THC in Maine

Buying delta-8 in Maine is relatively easy given the state’s laws that legalize the trade of hemp that is cultivated according to the legal guidelines.

Despite the federal and state laws legalizing hemp products, you should remain cautious when you choose a distributor. In some cases, you may come across an unauthorized dealer who sells products that might be illegal.

Therefore, buying your delta-8 products from an online brand is a considerably safer option. Not to mention, you come into direct contact with the manufacturer eliminating the risks involved with dealing with third-party vendors.

Before buying a cannabis product, you should ensure its legal status. Furthermore, carefully read the product label and use the product in the correct method.

Additionally, you should consult your physician before switching to delta-8 products as an alternative to traditional medicines.

How Much Delta-8 THC Can You Have in Maine

While Maine’s marijuana laws are very clear with in-depth definitions, the legislation does not specify a limit for possessing hemp-derived cannabis products like delta-8.

Mostly, basic lab testing is only helpful in identifying tetrahydrocannabinol. Therefore, extensive and thorough lab tests are essential to differentiate between delta-8 and delta-9. Furthermore, if there is a lack of proper lab tests and documents, authorities will likely confuse delta-8 with delta-9.

Is a Medical Marijuana Card Required to Use Delta-8 in Maine?

Delta-8 is legal in Maine according to both state and federal law. Consequently, residents do not need a medical marijuana card to use hemp products. Irrespective that the delta-8 was derived from hemp or marijuana, you can buy the legal products from local stores and dispensaries or order online.

Although there are no state restrictions on the age limit, most retailers sell hemp products to people who are 21 years and older.

Is Delta-8 Safe?

Like delta-9 THC, delta-8 is also a psychoactive compound that interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors in the brain to produce psychedelic effects. However, the potency of delta-8 is less than 50% of delta-9. As a consequence, it takes a massive dose of delta-8 to be able to produce a high equivalent to delta-9.

Therefore, delta-8 is considerably safe and the perfect option for people who wish to enjoy the potential health benefits of the phytocannabinoid without disorientation or neuropsychological effects.

In addition, there are a few side effects of using delta-8. While high doses of delta-9 consumption may lead to anxiety, hallucinations, and panic attacks, the effects of delta-8 are not as drastic. Hence, it is safer to consume in larger doses.

The lack of evidence of deaths due to delta-8 consumption and overdosing adds to the safety of its consumption. However, it is possible to experience some mild side effects like irritability and fatigue.

Delta-8 THC Products

With the increase in the demand for delta-8 carts and products, new brands have been emerging in the market. While a few brands compromise the quality of their products to beat the market competition, most brands strive to bring innovation to the industry.

Thus, the methods of delta-8 consumption have changed over time. Furthermore, brands introduce new products to meet their customers’ needs. Some of the methods of delta-8 consumption include:

  • Marijuana Vapes

Vapes are one of the most discreet and convenient methods of delta-8 consumption. If you want to enjoy smooth hits without dealing with heaps of ash and a lot of smoke, vaping delta-8 is the best method for you.

Also, vapes take relatively less time to kick in. You will mostly feel the effects within a few minutes after inhaling the vapor. Hold your breath for as long as you can after inhaling for more excellent absorption.

As a beginner, it is best to start with a low dose and take it slow. It would be best if you gave sufficient breaks between two consecutive inhales. To vape delta-8, you can use disposable vape pens or cartridges with a rechargeable vape pen.

  • Marijuana Tincture

Another well-known method of delta-8 THC consumption is the delta-8 tinctures. These are popular for being the middle-ground between marijuana and CBD. On the one hand, these can induce the same relaxing feeling, uplift mood, and help with sleep. On the other hand, they have mild psychoactive effects as well.

Delta-8 tinctures are a versatile method of consuming this cannabinoid. You can mix a few drops of your delta-8 tincture in your drink, ingest it with food, or take it sublingually by holding it under your tongue for faster absorption. Usually, tinctures can take 30 minutes to come into action when mixed with food and drinks.

  • Delta-8 Flower

Although delta-8 flowers are a popular method of consuming this cannabinoid, these are not naturally occurring strains. Instead, many manufacturers use various processes to infuse delta-8 into hemp flowers. Fundamentally, the process involves spraying the delta-8 distillate on quality hemp flowers.

Nevertheless, depending on the process, the quality of the delta-8 flower varies. Like other hemp flowers, you can smoke delta-8 flowers using bongs and pipes and roll them to make a joint.

  • Edibles

Delta-8 edibles are an excellent option for cannabis enthusiasts who don’t appreciate the sharp, bitter taste of the flowers or don’t like smoking this phytocannabinoid. The most common edible marijuana product is the D8 gummies.

Although edibles take longer to show their effects, they are relatively long-lasting. Similar to tinctures, your body first digests the delta-8 edibles like gummies before they enter the bloodstream.

An advantage of consuming edibles is the convenience of distributing doses. However, they also create a more significant opportunity to overdose, considering how easy it is to get carried away.

For people who wish to enjoy the healing properties of the cannabinoid without consuming it, topical products like marijuana ointment, spray, cream, lotion, etc., are the perfect alternative. Not to mention, these produce localized results.

Here Is Our Top Pick: Exhale’s Delta 8 THC Gummies

Strongest delta-8 gummies

The best part is that Exhale Wellness’ delta-8 THC products are all natural and organic, making them the most powerful sedatives on the market right now.

Exhale Wellness has imprinted the delta-8 fans. People have been wowed by its products and business practices, and many have already begun to purchase again from it. This manufacturer also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and free shipping.

Conclusion: Where Can I Get Delta-8 Products In Maine?

Delta-8 is legal in Maine as per state law, however, you should use it correctly, to enjoy all its benefits. Globally, the decriminalization of cannabis has led to an expansion in the industry. With new brands emerging and introducing innovative products with greater versatility, the cannabis industry has become hard to ignore.

Knowing the legal status of the product you wish to buy is necessary. Hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% THC concentration are legal in Maine. Medical use of delta-8 is also legal according to the Maine Medical Marijuana Act. Nevertheless, you should consult your physician before using the cannabinoid as alternative medicine.

Unlike federal law, state law clearly defines that marijuana includes marijuana concentrates. Meanwhile, hemp includes agricultural commodities and ingestible consumer products.

Regardless of the legality, you should be careful while buying delta-8 products and make sure you purchase them from a credible source. Additionally, check the product label and make a suitable dosage to meet your requirements.

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