The Science Of The Delta-8 Craze : Short Wave

Delta-8-THC is derived from the cannabidiol (CBD) in hemp plants.

Gillian Flaccus/AP

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Gillian Flaccus/AP

Delta-8-THC is derived from the cannabidiol (CBD) in hemp plants.

Gillian Flaccus/AP

The cannabis industry is where the chemistry lab meets agriculture. Delta-8-THC is chemically derived and the hemp industry’s fastest growing product. It has been popping up in smoke shops, CBD shops and even gas stations.

Dr. Katelyn Kesheimer, a researcher at Auburn University and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, joins the show to demystify Delta-8. We’ll learn what it’s made of, where it comes from, why it’s so popular, and why science and the federal government are falling so far behind the cannabis industry.

Email the show at ShortWave@NPR.org.

This episode was produced by Eva Tesfaye and edited by Sara Sarasohn. Margaret Cirino checked the facts. Ted Mebane was the audio engineer.