Delta 8 vs Delta 9: What Are The Differences?

Many active ingredients are found in hemp and marijuana plants. Plenty of studies have focused on two specific natural compounds that these plants produce, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
When talking about THC, people usually mean Delta-9 THC, the predominant psychoactive substance in cannabis. However, tetrahydrocannabinol includes a family of isomers with a similar chemical structure.

Delta-9 and Delta-8 THC are two main isomers of the Sativa cannabis plant which share similar names and structures, making them easy to confuse. Researching these cannabinoids probably led you to find many products containing them. As a result of their legalization, their popularity has grown tremendously due to the effects they offer.

We can help if you're confused! This detailed guide explains the differences between Delta-8 and Delta-9, presents some helpful tips, and prepares you to make informed purchases in the future.

 

Delta 8 vs Delta 9: An Overview

The properties and effects of Delta-8 and Delta-9 are really similar, so it is easy to assume they are the same. Except for a few electrons, Delta-8 and 9 have almost identical molecular structures too.

There are, however, a few key differences you should be aware of. Let’s dig deeper into the differences between Delta-8 and Delta-9 by learning more about their general properties.

Delta 8 THC

Delta-8 is a less-known but nonetheless important cannabinoid. Delta-8 THC differs from Delta-9 THC predominantly because it is less psychoactive than Delta-9. As a result, Delta-8 THC products have a more gradual, therefore more satisfying, effect on the consumer.

But there are nuanced steps in making Delta-8. The process involves different acids, solvents, and temperatures. A similar process can be used to produce other exotic drugs, such as spice, which is also sold as synthetic cannabinoids.

When making Delta-8, CBD oil is the best and most convenient option. A recent increase in CBD production in the U.S. has caused the price of CBD oil to drop and has led growers to find more profitable uses for the surplus of CBD oil.

Learn more How Long Does Delta-8 Stay in Your System.

Delta 9 THC

Delta-9, best known as THC, is a naturally occurring compound in cannabis plants. When you read an article referring to THC or discussing its effects and benefits, it is, in fact, THC Delta-9. Delta-9 is the principal substance responsible for the intoxicating effects, or the classic "high".

Delta-9 THC is a cannabis component discovered all the way back in 1964. Cannabis produces common effects such as elation, sedation, relaxation, laughter, memory impairment, and appetite.

Can you recall the Farm Bill from 2018? Well, according to that, for hemp products to be legal, THC levels must be below 0.3%. Delta-9 THC is the amount that passes the law.

There are many ways to extract Delta-9 and CBD from the plant. It is common to smoke cannabis strains with high levels of THC straight from the plant (flower buds) in the following ways.

• Rolled into a joint
• Smoked from a pipe
• Inhaled from a bong

A resin extract of THC can be used in a variety of products such as edibles, cannabis oils, and vape cartridges. The substance can also be found in many medications. It's worth noting that most CBD goods are extracted from hemp. Manufacturers extract its' oil to add to body products or sell it as a concentrate product.

Properties of Delta 8 THC: Reasons to Choose Delta 8

Why would you go out of your way to look for Delta-8 THC products? The answer is simple. Studies have shown Delta-8 to be beneficial to the human body in a number of ways. Let's examine some of them.

If you’re interested in Delta 8 and its properties, you can read our comprehensive Full Delta 8 THC Guide.

Check Out Fusion CBD Delta 8 Products

3-Delta-8 THC Vape Cartridge Value Pack

Offering Antineoplastic Properties

These results suggest that Delta-8 THC may reduce cancerous tumors. Additionally, it may prove that as a cannabinoid, Delta-8 offers more advantages than harm to your body's overall health.

The Journal of the National Cancer Institute reports that Delta-8 was associated with several interesting outcomes, all of which strongly suggested its beneficial properties:

• Inhaling Delta-8 THC inhibited tumor growth in the lungs.
• All doses of Delta-8-THC (50-400 mg/kg) inhibited primary tumor growth between 40 and 60% 12 days post-inoculation.
• Delta-8-THC and CBN reduced primary tumor size in mice treated for 20 consecutive days.

These results suggest that Delta-8 THC may reduce cancerous tumors. This study may prove Delta-8's benefits as a cannabinoid that has more advantages than harm for your body's overall functions.

Appetite Booster

Delta-8 THC is more effective at boosting appetite than Delta-9 THC when it comes to cognitive effects. According to scientists, Delta-8 THC can stimulate appetite twice as strongly as Delta-9 THC.

Those who enjoy using cannabis for the munchies will love Delta-8 THC, as a single dose can boost appetite by up to three times. People struggling with eating disorders and low appetite could benefit from Delta-8 THC's properties.

Assisting with Digestion

Nausea and vomiting can be controlled with Delta-8 THC. Delta-9 THC is also effective in treating them. Although, Delta-9 THC's stronger psychoactive nature has hampered its' wider use in treating nausea.

While Delta-8 THC has similar antiemetic properties, it is less likely to cause anxiety and paranoia. There is growing evidence that Delta-8 THC can be an effective adjunctive treatment for the side effects of conventional cancer treatments.

Relieves Pain

There is a growing trend to use Delta-8 THC for pain relief over other cannabinoids. Researchers have found that Delta-8 THC can relieve chronic pain through topical application. Neuropathy, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis are all associated with chronic pain and inflammation.

Research has shown that THC can relieve chronic pain. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and regulates the neurons and hormones that are involved in pain transmission. THC changes your perception of pain as well as its roots.

Delta-8 Products

Since the legalization of hemp-derived products in the U.S. this market has been thriving exceptionally. Today, you can enjoy a huge selection of products, created to satisfy every need. Let's take a look at some of the popular Delta-8 products:

Delta-8 Edibles

Had a long week, and now all you want is something to relax and enjoy while watching your favorite TV show? Delta-8 edibles are a great way to enjoy a tasty snack while waiting for a smooth and satisfying high.

Edibles come in a huge variety. From gummies and candies to drinks and chocolate bars, you can choose whatever you like. Edibles are a perfect choice for gatherings, parties, or times you need a Delta-8 dose on the go.

Note that edibles should pass through the digestive system before affecting. For this reason, they take longer to kick in. So be patient, and wait at least 2 hours for the full effects. Additionally, edibles last longer too, so if you're busy, you might want to leave them for a better time.

Delta-8 Topicals

Suffering from joint pain? Or maybe you just had surgery and you need something to relieve the aching pain? Delta-8 topicals are a natural alternative to your medication. Known for its soothing effects, Delta-8 topicals can offer quick relief.

For best results, rub the cream slowly on your painful area, massage it for a few minutes, and let it absorb. Delta-8 should work in 10 to 20 minutes. However, if you haven't felt much relief after the required time, you can increase the dose.
As they are absorbed through the skin, topicals don't cause any high effects. Topicals include ingredients other than Delta-8 too. So if you have sensitive skin or have allergic reactions to any substance, make sure to read the label carefully and use it with caution.

Delta-8 Tinctures

If you're interested in the medical usage of cannabis, you're probably familiar with CBD tinctures. These products are the classic way of using cannabidiol. Known for their ease of use, now you can enjoy your Delta-8 as tinctures as well.

Tinctures offer quick-delivering effects, which is a great option for times you need that relaxing high ASAP. For that, simply add a few drops under your tongue, and wait for the high to take you over.

But even if you're not a big fan of the sublingual method, tinctures still can be of use. Put it in your salad, your tea, or anything you like, and enjoy. Note that this way you need to wait more for the high to kick in.

Delta-8 Vape

Do you enjoy smoking Delta-8? What about vaping it? If you enjoy smoking but haven't tried vaping, you should absolutely give it a shot. Vapes are the new and cool way of smoking. These tools come in a variety of versions, allowing you to enjoy Delta-8 as you wish.

Inside the vapes are a chamber containing the Delta-8 oil. This oil is then heated up, and transformed into vapor, which you can inhale. When vaping, Delta-8 absorbs into your blood vessels quickly, allowing you to enjoy the quick releasing high.

That said, the high effects of vaping perish quickly as well. So if you're looking for a short relaxing high to unload your stress, vaping is your absolute go-to

 

Cannabis User Tips: Know Before Purchase

Delta 8 vs Delta 9 Dosing

No matter what cannabinoid you choose, you should always start with a low dosage and potency and gradually increase as your tolerance grows. Doing so will prevent severe side effects and other unpleasant symptoms.

The recommended dosage for Delta-8 THC is between 10mg and 60mg, while that of Delta-9 THC is between 5mg and 30mg. Each individual has a unique body tolerance and metabolism, as well as particular needs and preferences. Therefore, your dose might not be the same as someone else's.

You can search for dosage charts or consult a medical professional to determine what dosage is appropriate for you, especially if you are taking other medications.

Seeking Professional Advice

This article features products that are not FDA-approved and may pose certain legal and health risks. Make sure you consult with professionals before making any decisions based on the information presented. Advertisers created and paid for this content, not the Observer, and it does not imply endorsement, warranty, or guaranteed outcome.

Risks of THC Delta 9 & Delta 8

Since Delta-8 THC is similar to THC Delta-9, it exhibits similar side effects, such as:

• Red eyes
• Dry mouth
• Rapid heart rate
• Coordination issues
• Slow reaction times
• Stress/Anxiety
• Loss of memory

Delta 8 Legality

In the Controlled Substances Act, hemp was removed from the definition of marijuana in the 2018 Farm Bill. As a result, hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3 percent THC are now legal. 

However, some CBD goods contain more than 0.3 percent THC. These Delta-8 products are classified as marijuana and are illegal under federal law. Make sure to check state laws, especially when travelling. You should also keep in mind that the FDA does not approve nonprescription CBD products, and some products may have incorrect labels.

Which One to Go For, Delta-9 vs Delta-8

Now that you have a better understanding of two well–known THC isomers, it's time to choose which one is best for you. Depending on why you're using THC, the occasion, requirements, the expected outcomes, and your tolerance, your choice can differ.

If you're a cannabis enthusiast and wish to have a strong high, Delta-8 is not probably what you need. But if you're using cannabis for medical purposes, or you're a novice user and want to be safe, you should stay away from Delta-9.

In any case, it's important to use with caution, and not rush into high dosage before seeing the full effect. Sometimes the high kicks in later than you expected. Thus, be careful, and in case of any problem, try to stay calm and ask for help.

Where Is Delta 8 Available 

Where is Delta-8 available? To be sure that the product you're buying contains Delta-8, you should look closely to see if it says so clearly on the label. For example, Fusion CBD Delta 8 Products are great for beginners as well as experienced marijuana users.

Finding the best place to buy Delta 8 online is not as hard as you might imagine once you find the right sources. Selling online and/or through brick-and-mortar channels through a recognized brand within the industry is a guaranteed way to find the best cannabidiol products.

Fusion CBD Wholesale Club

Throughout the United States, we work with best-in-class industrial hemp facilities that are GMP-certified and FDA-registered, so we can provide you with the absolute best hemp. Join Fusion CBD’s wholesale club and provide your customers with a variety of products from capsules to gummies.

Conclusion

Cannabis is an extraordinary plant with an endless number of distinctive characteristics. THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids and terpenes can affect you differently. When using cannabis products for therapeutic purposes or for pleasure, it's important to know the properties of the plant.

If you want a milder "high" than you get from regular THC, Delta-8 THC may be a better choice than Delta-9 THC. Delta-8 THC is said to have less potent effects than Delta-9 THC, though more research is needed to better understand its' possible side effects.

Delta 8 vs Delta 9 FAQ

What is the difference between Delta 8 and THC?

Delta-8 THC is one of the isomers of tetrahydrocannabinol, found in the cannabis plant. The main difference between Delta-8 and its sibling Delta-9 is the position of their carbon molecules. This causes Delta-8 to have lower interaction with the endocannabinoid receptors in your body. As a result, Delta-8 has slightly different effects. According to the users, Delta-8 offers a less potent high, which is more relaxing than euphoric.

Is Delta 8 as good as THC?

According to multiple studies, Delta-8 offers similar effects to Delta-9, known commonly as THC. This means when you use Delta-8 products, you'll receive the same high effects including euphoria, happiness, relaxation, focus, mental clarity, and more. That said, Delta-8's effects are slightly less potent than THC. This means the same dosage of Delta-8 offers a milder high. So if you're looking for a smooth experience to relax with your friends, Delta-8 is probably the best option.

Does Delta 8 get you high?

Similar to other isomers of THC, Delta-8 is also psychoactive. Therefore, using this substance in any form, whether it's edible, vape, or tincture, can lead to the common effects of high. However, the effects are smoother compared to those experienced by Delta-9. Using Delta-8, you'll feel relaxed, relieved, happy, focused, euphoric, and sleepy. Note that high doses of Delta-8 can also cause strong highs, so don't rush into high doses just because it's less potent.

Is Delta 8 good for sleep?

Many benefits are associated with Delta-8 products. Among these are its calming and anti-inflammatory properties that can help individuals with sleep disorders have quality sleep. Studies suggest that pain and stress are two main factors beyond sleep problems. By binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors in our brain, Delta-8 helps endocannabinoid receptors work optimally. This will ultimately improve your mental and physical health, allowing you to enjoy better sleep.