Recreational Marijuana Alternatives Gaining Popularity in Half of the U.S. States Where It Remains Illegal

Highly Legal News Report

Introduction

Despite half of the United States maintaining strict regulations on recreational marijuana use,
alternative products that provide similar experiences are rapidly gaining popularity. This article
explores the trend of marijuana alternatives in states where the substance is still illegal. The
article aims to shed light on the potential risks and benefits of such products.

Delta-8 Gummies: An Unexpectedly Intense Experience

Jessica Watkins from Arlington, Texas, experienced a horrifying ordeal after consuming a delta-8
gummy to help calm her anxiety. She purchased the gummy, seeking a similar light and natural remedy,
from an online store recommended by a friend. Instead, she endured extreme detachment from her
surroundings, leaving her cold, numb, and shaking. Despite the packaging’s absence of warnings or
information on potential side effects, Watkins reacted intensely and required almost two days to recover.

The Legal Gray Area: Hemp-Derived Products

Recreational marijuana may be illegal, but the sale of hemp-derived products has brought alternative
“highs” to various states. The 2018 farm bill legalized hemp sale, an aspect of the cannabis plant
containing low Delta-9 THC levels, the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. This legalization
led to a surge in hemp products marketed for various uses, including anxiety relief, sleep aids, and
adjuncts to traditional medicine.

The Rise and Dangers of Synthetic Hemp Products

Some hemp-derived products, intentionally or accidentally made stronger, present new risks and
heightened potency, surpassing traditional marijuana highs. Doctors and researchers are alarmed by
the increase in reports of individuals, both young and old, experiencing illness and adverse effects after
consuming these unregulated products. Poison centers and hospitals are witnessing a significant rise
in related cases and are calling attention to the urgent need for further understanding and regulation.

The Hazards of Unregulated Hemp Products

Hemp products, often packaged to resemble candies, can pose significant risks, particularly to
children who mistakenly consume them. Limited warnings are provided, leaving even physicians in the dark
about product compositions. Reports of hospitalization, accidental ingestion, and adverse effects on
children are becoming more prevalent, highlighting the need for detailed product warnings and regulation
in the hemp industry.

Hemp Products: Unregulated and Potentially Dangerous

The absence of regulatory oversight and the lack of standardized product testing present significant
challenges. Hemp-derived products may contain harmful contaminants, including pesticides and heavy
metals. Experts warn that the synthesis process of these products often creates unknown byproducts that
are not conducive to human consumption. Moreover, volatile potency levels further complicate these
products, as higher strength products are often favored without clear guidance on safe consumption.

The Need for Regulation and Oversight

Concerns have been raised regarding the absence of a federal regulatory framework governing the hemp
industry. With 50 different state approaches to regulation and no overarching standards, the market remains
unclear. Attorneys general from 21 states have petitioned Congress to address the current vague legislation
concerning hemp products and to enforce regulatory requirements to protect public safety.

Varied State Approaches to Hemp Product Regulation

State-specific approaches have emerged to grapple with the regulation of hemp products. Some states, like
Virginia, California, and Alabama, have started differentiating between cannabis and hemp-derived compounds,
looking to regulate them accordingly. However, widespread confusion persists, leaving consumers to rely on
inconsistent shopkeeper advice and anecdotal experiences.

The Controversy Continues

With ongoing debates over hemp product regulations and uncertainty surrounding their safety, consumers
find themselves with limited information and contradictory claims. As new compounds like HHC, THC-JD,
and THC-B permeate the market as even stronger psychoactive substances, health agencies are trying to
collect data on their potential harm. The absence of standardized testing and regulation continues to
perpetuate confusion surrounding these products.

Conclusion

Marijuana alternatives, including hemp-derived products, have become increasingly popular in states
where recreational cannabis remains illegal. However, the lack of regulation, testing, and comprehensive
information surrounding these products has raised concerns among medical professionals. The need for
federal and state intervention to protect public health and establish industry standards is clear.