The Differences Between Delta-8 and Delta-9
Due to its similarities to THC, Delta-8 is a cannabis compound that is growing in popularity. THC is responsible for the ‘high’ feeling achieved when cannabis or cannabis products are consumed, triggering euphoria, sedation, symptom relief, and more.
The similarities between the two cannabinoids lie in their chemical structures and their names. THC’s scientific name is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or delta-9 THC, or simply just delta-9. Delta-8 is short for delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, or delta-8 THC. Delta-8 THC can cause effects similar to regular delta-9 THC, though they will be considerably less potent. Delta-8 and delta-9 are both forms of THC. Though typically, when people refer to THC, they are talking about delta-9 THC.
As of right now, the legality of Delta-8 varies, as it can be extracted from either hemp or cannabis. So long as the Delta-8 is extracted from hemp, due to the 2018 Farm Bill, it can be legally grown and the extract sold in cannabis dispensaries in all states where hemp is legal.
Bond Variation
Both Delta-8 and Delta-9 bind to the body’s cannabinoid system, which is responsible for the ‘high’ sensation, and they both have double-bond structures. However, the THCs vary according to where the bond is made. For Delta-8, it has the bond on eighth carbon, and with Delta-9, it’s on the ninth carbon. Due to Delta-8’s bond location, the ‘high’ that is produced is less potent than it would be with Delta-9 products.
Milder Sensation
While not as powerful or as potent, Delta-8 THC can still create a high effect. This is a great option for those who live in states where cannabis is illegal but still want to experience THC-like effects. This is also a great alternative choice for consumers who would like a smoother, milder high.
The Effects:
Consumers of both Delta-9 and Delta-8 report that they have very similar effects to each other. Some of these include euphoria, happiness, boosted mood, as well as relief for mild to moderate pain and even insomnia. The side-effects are also the same, which can include dry mouth, red eyes, the ‘munchies’, and possibly short-term memory loss, paranoia or anxiety.
Products
Just like the traditional THC compound, Delta-8 features a variety of ways to be used and consumed. From the Earth, a cannabis dispensary, features a Soothing Delta-8 Tablingual that advertises a mild high to relax both the body and the mind. They also have an edible tablet that helps when recovering from hangovers, aiding in limiting the undesirable side-effects brought on by the over-consumption of alcohol.
Overall, there isn’t a huge difference between traditional THC and Delta-8. While Delta-8 is fairly new to the market, we do know that it creates a much lighter high, and would be a good option for those who would like a more milder experience. It is also more feasible in states where traditional THC is still illegal. To find out if Delta-8 products are legal in your state, be sure to check out this interactive list.
