How to Make Delta-8 Gummies: A Safe and Easy Step-by-Step Guide
Delta 8 gummies have become a popular way to experience the potential calming and therapeutic benefits of Delta-8 THC. These edibles offer a smoother, milder psychoactive experience than traditional Delta-9 THC products, making them ideal for people looking to relax, reduce stress, or improve sleep without feeling overwhelmed. But what exactly are Delta 8 gummies, and how can you make them at home?
First, let’s explore what Delta 8 gummies are and how they compare to Delta 9 gummies. Then, we’ll show you how to make the perfect Delta-8 gummies and how to enjoy them safely.
What Are Delta 8 Gummies?
Delta 8 gummies are chewy, fruit-flavored edibles infused with Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8 THC), a cannabinoid found naturally in the cannabis plant and known for its psychoactive effects—though milder than those of Delta 9 THC.
Delta 8 Gummies vs Delta 9 Gummies: What’s the Difference?
Though Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC are both psychoactive cannabinoids, they differ in chemical structure and intensity as stated in “Delta-8-THC: Delta-9-THC’s nicer younger sibling?”. Some of the main differences are:
- Chemical Structure: Delta-8 has a double bond on the eighth carbon chain; Delta-9 has it on the ninth. This small difference leads to noticeable changes in how they interact with the body.
- Potency: Delta-9 THC is generally more potent. Research involving 521 participants found that Delta-8-THC was about two-thirds as potent as Delta-9-THC.
- Effects: Delta-8 provides a less intense high. It’s often preferred by those who want the benefits of THC without overwhelming psychoactive effects.
When making homemade gummies, Delta-8 can serve as an effective alternative to Delta-9, though it’s important to adjust your dosage accordingly.
Are Delta 8 Gummies Safe to Consume?
Used responsibly and sourced from third-party–tested products, Delta-8 gummies are generally well tolerated. They deliver a gentler psychoactive experience than Delta-9, so many people turn to them for relaxation and focus without feeling overstimulated.
According to “Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol: a scoping review and commentary”, some users even substitute Delta-8 for other psychoactive substances because they report:
- Fewer and less severe adverse side effects
- Less perceived addictiveness
- Lower withdrawal potential
- Greater perceived effectiveness and safety
Safety tips:
- Choose Delta-8 THC that is lab-tested by a third party to avoid harmful byproducts.
- Store Delta-8 gummies properly and consume them in the shortest possible time.
- Keep away from children and pets.
How to Make Delta-8 Gummies at Home (Step-by-Step Recipe)
This recipe yields approximately 40 medium-sized gummies (5 mL each), offering a beginner-friendly microdose of Delta-8 THC. Final yield may vary depending on mold size and cooking loss.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 gram of Delta 8 THC Oil
- 1/2 cup of coconut oil (or MCT oil), which is more easily digested and absorbed
- 1 oz of unflavored gelatin to give gummies their chewy consistency
- 1 cup of fruit juice of preference provides flavor and natural color
- 1/4 cup of honey (or agave for a vegan version) balances bitterness and adds sweetness
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice enhances tartness
- Cooking spray (for molds)
Instructions:
- Warm the coconut oil in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add the Delta-8 THC Oil and stir until fully dissolved.
- In a separate bowl, pour the fruit juice and lemon juice. Sprinkle gelatin over the surface and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
- Add the gelatin mixture to the saucepan and stir continuously for at least two minutes, making sure the Delta-8 oil disperses evenly so every gummy delivers the same strength.
- Add honey and continue stirring until well mixed.
- Spray gummy molds lightly with cooking spray.
- Pour the mixture into molds and let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
- Transfer to the fridge for 2–4 hours until set.
- Once firm, remove from molds and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
How Do Delta 8 Gummies Feel, and How Long Do They Last?
Expect a calm, clear-headed buzz that many users describe as relaxing without heavy intoxication.
Most people feel the first effects between 30 minutes and two hours after eating a gummy, and the experience can last four to eight hours—or even longer depending on metabolism and dose.
204 from the total of 521 participants in this study report some common effects:
- Gentle euphoria
- Pain and inflammation relief
- Reduced anxiety and stress
- Increased focus
- Better sleep
What’s the Best Way to Dose Delta 8 Gummies Safely?
- Calculate dosage by drops per gummy for consistency.
- Begin with one gummy or less (especially if you’re new).
- Wait at least 2 hours before consuming more.
- Store in clearly labeled, child-proof containers.
DIY Delta-8 Gummies—Are They Worth Trying?
Making Delta 8 gummies at home allows you to control ingredients, potency, and quality while being cost-effective. When you control the ingredients, you also control potency, flavor, and quality. With proper dosing and safety precautions, homemade Delta 8 gummies can be a great way to enjoy this cannabinoid’s relaxing and therapeutic potential.
Be sure to source your products from reputable suppliers such as Vitality CBD and check your local laws. Explore our Delta 8-THC products and use them responsibly as part of your wellness routine.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need to make Delta-8 gummies?
You only need a handful of basics:
- Delta-8 THC oil or distillate,
- coconut or MCT oil,
- unflavored gelatin (or pectin for a vegan option),
- fruit juice or another flavored liquid,
- honey, agave, or sugar for sweetness,
- lemon juice or citric acid for tartness,
- water, and a light coat of non-stick spray for the molds.
Optional natural colors or essential oils let you fine-tune flavor and appearance.
Is it cheaper to make Delta-8 gummies at home?
Usually, yes. When you buy Delta-8 distillate in bulk, the cost per 25 mg gummy often falls to about $0.40–$0.50. Comparable store-bought gummies can cost $1 or more each. If you already have simple kitchen gear, you’ll recoup the upfront cost after one or two batches.
Can you make Delta 8 gummies with CBD oil instead of Delta 8 distillate?
No, CBD oil and Delta 8 THC distillate are not interchangeable in gummies. CBD is non-psychoactive and does not provide the same effects. To experience the intended benefits of Delta 8 edibles, you’ll need a Delta 8-specific product.
What’s the best carrier oil for infusing Delta 8 in edibles?
Coconut oil is one of the best options due to its high saturated fat content, which improves cannabinoid absorption. MCT oil is also a good alternative for a faster onset.
How do I calculate the potency of homemade Delta 8 gummies?
Divide the total milligrams of Delta 8 in your recipe by the number of gummies made. For example, 1,000 mg divided by 20 gummies equals 50 mg per gummy.
Do Delta 8 gummies require refrigeration?
Yes. Storing Delta 8 gummies in the refrigerator helps preserve their texture and potency. They typically stay fresh for up to two weeks when sealed in an airtight container.
Can I flavor Delta 8 gummies naturally without artificial ingredients?
Absolutely. You can use fruit juice, citrus zest, or essential oils (in very small amounts) for flavor, and natural sweeteners like honey or agave.
References
Kruger JS, Kruger DJ. Delta‑8‑THC: Delta‑9‑THC’s nicer younger sibling? Journal of Cannabis Research. 2022; 4(1):4. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00115-8.
LoParco CR, Rossheim ME, Walters ST, Zhou Z, Olsson S, Sussman SY. Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol: a scoping review and commentary. Addiction. 2023; 118(6): 1011–1028. https://doi.org/10.1111/add.16142
WebMD | Delta-8 THC: What You Need to Know About This Cannabinoid