We get asked "What is Delta 8" quite often. As many more people are hearing about and learning of the potential benefits of Delta 8, we expect that we get will start getting asked that even more often than we already do. At the same time a lot of people are curious about what the differences are between Delta 8 THC products and Delta 9 THC.
If you don't already know, Delta 9 THC is the primary form of THC that is often times associated with marijuana and cannabis. We will take a deep dive into what Delta 8 and Delta 9 are and explore the similarities and differences between them.
What Is Delta-8 THC?
Delta 8 THC is a chemical compound found in both cannabis and hemp plants. It was made legal with the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, which defined hemp from cannabis plants as being federally legal. Since Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC products can be derived from the hemp plant, they are technically legal.
Most manufactures of Delta 8 actually convert hemp derived CBD into Delta 8, since there is not enough raw plant material to go around, making the minor cannabinoid considered semi-synthetic by many.
Delta 8 is a psychoactive compound, which does produce intoxicating effects, meaning it does produce a "high", but to a much lesser degree than that of Delta 9 THC. Overall, Delta 8 THC falls in a middle ground between CBD (hemp derived cannabidiol) and regular THC (Delta 9 THC). As a cannabinoid, the potential benefits that Delta 8 THC brings to the table are very appealing for many.
If Delta 8 THC is legal in the state you live in, it makes for a great alternative to those who are either unable to access medical or recreational cannabis legally. It's also a great option for those who prefer a more mellow alternative to Delta 9 THC and other cannabinoids.
Delta 8 Benefits
There is very limited clinical research at this point, with no confirmed medical use of Delta 8 THC. It does, however, show promise with quite a few medical and therapeutic applications. Due to lack of clinical trials and research, the potential benefits of Delta 8 are primarily coming from user reports.
Until more research is done, users have reported potential medical benefits and health benefits such as Delta 8's ability to relieve stress, stimulate appetite, reduce inflammation and help with pain relief. It may also be beneficial for certain medical conditions such as chronic pain and multiple sclerosis.
Potential therapeutic and recreational uses and benefits of Delta 8 THC products include helping to reduce stress, anxiety reduction, and assisting with maintaining a tranquil and euphoric state of mind.
Potential Delta 8 Risks
If you are thinking about trying Delta 8 THC, or any other hemp derived products you should of course, speak with a medical professional about the risks and possible side effects before making your decision. You should also be sure to familiarize yourself with the federal law along with any local laws pertaining to Delta 8.
As with any chemical compound it effects the human body, specifically our central nervous system, in a number of ways. Because each of our bodies are slightly different the effects that one person may experience may not be exactly the same as what you will.
It is important to understand that potential side effects that may come with using Delta 8 or any other synthetic cannabinoids. They may include dry mouth, red eyes, grogginess, and increase appetite.
Lastly, since hemp products are not currently regulated by the FDA. You should be conscious of only purchasing Delta 8 or Delta 9 THC products from hemp producers and retailers that are reputable to ensure your safety. You should only purchase from companies that offer products that are lab tested, which will show that their production process does not leave behind any organic solvent or other harmful by products.
What Is Delta-9 THC?
Delta 9 THC, or Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is a chemical compound called a cannabinoid that is found in both the hemp plant and the cannabis, or marijuana plants. It, among over 100 other cannabinoids and terpenes are what make up the chemical structure of the cannabis plant. Delta 9 THC is most commonly referred to as just THC, which is psychoactive, therefore produces intoxicating effects.
Marijuana was added to the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, which turned the plant illegal at the federal level. Even before then, between 1916 and 1931, 29 states had banned marijuana and many additional laws had targeted its legality. Even since then, it has continued to be a sought after and controversial plant, looked to for its medical, therapeutic applications, and recreational uses.
Since the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, not only are cannabis dispensaries able to sell Delta 9 but other retails are as well. There is no chemical difference between hemp derived Delta 9 and marijuana derived Delta 9 other than one is technically legal at the federal level whereas the other is not.
Delta 9 Benefits
Delta 9 boasts various medical benefits along with therapeutic uses. Then there of course is recreational use. Some of the benefits of Delta 9 thc include euphoric effects, which are associated with getting "high". Additionally, many marijuana users report feeling slower, calmer, and overall happier. Many people experience relaxation, or a sedative effect, which can help users relax and assist with sleeping.
Some medical benefits of Delta 8 include pain relief, reducing symptoms of anxiety and PTSD, help those with low appetite, slow the spread of cancer cells, control epileptic seizures, ease the pain of multiple sclerosis, treat eating disorders, and treat patients with glaucoma. The list of benefits that medical marijuana can provide patients is broad and wide reaching.
Potential Delta 9 Risks
With anything positive, there will always be some negatives. One of the drawbacks with Delta 9 THC is its cognitive effects on your body, to include potential memory impairment and other adverse effects such as impaired motor skills. Since cannabis products target the cannabinoid receptors in your body.
There are some adverse effects to consider when using Delta 9. Those side effects can include dry eyes, dry mouth, increased appetite, potential to cause anxiety or paranoia, and grogginess.
With hemp derived Delta 9 there may be concern about short and long-term health effects. Unregulated market brings up the point of public health risks with potentially harmful chemicals left over from the hemp production and extraction process, with even minimal amounts being harmful to your health.
Delta 8 vs Delta 9 Differences and Similarities
Delta 8 and Delta 9 share similar chemical structures, with the only difference being in their molecular structure and the location of the double bond. Delta 8 THC's double bond is located at the eighth carbon atom, hence its name Delta 8. As you probably assumed, that means that Delta 9 THC's double bond is located at the ninth carbon atom.
Besides the chemical structure similarities and slight differences, Delta 9 thc and Delta 9 are both considered psychoactive, unlike CBD oil. They both produce euphoric and tranquil feelings. Delta 8 thc does this to a lesser degree and is considered to be less potent.
Because of the way that most delta 8 is manufactured, where they convert CBD isolate into Delta 8, many consider Delta 8 THC to be a synthetic cannabinoid. That is not the case with Delta 9 THC.
Legal
Cannabis plants are either considered hemp or cannabis. The difference between the two is in the THC content. Hemp plants have very minimal amounts of Delta 9 thc where marijuana has a much higher percentage of Delta 9 thc content. This differentiation between the cannabis plants is what determines the legal status of each cannabinoid.
Federal and state legislatures have mixed views on both Delta 8 and Delta 9. Most of that tends to stem from the intoxicating effects that both produce. At this point Delta 9 is federally illegal unless derived from hemp. Delta 9 derived from marijuana is considered illegal at the federally.
Delta 8 THC is considered federally legal as long as it is derived from hemp, although there are a lot of states that have enforced a ban on delta 8 and other minor cannabinoids, making them illegal. You really have to be careful and know your state and local laws when purchasing from online retailers or before crossing state lines with Delta 8 or Delta 9 products.
Dosage
Dosage for both Delta 8 and Delta 9 products really comes down to a handful of factors. Those are an individuals' usage history, dosage, body composition, and consumption method.
No matter what, we suggest always starting out with a very small amount and waiting to get the full effects before ever deciding to take more. That even applies to whenever you are trying a new cannabinoid since they can differ greatly in potency and effects. Following these helpful tips will ensure you have a positive experience.
General dosing guidelines for Delta 8 and Delta 9 are:
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Edibles & Tinctures
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Beginner (5-10mg)
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Intermediate (10-30mg)
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Advanced (30-50mg +)
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Vapes & Vape Cartridges
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Beginner (1, 1-2 second puffs)
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Intermediate (2-3, 1-5 second puffs)
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Advanced (3+, 1-10second puffs)
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Drug Tests
Whether it be cannabis or other synthetic cannabinoids, "Will I fail a drug test?" is a question that gets brought up often. Regardless of if you use Delta 8 or Delta 9, if you are subject to a drug test at any point, you should avoid using either. Both of these THC products will cause you to fail a drug test.
A standard drug test will identify THC metabolites in your system regardless of where those metabolites came from. We suggest not risking it and playing it safe by avoiding any cannabis products regardless of if they are legal in your area.
Which is better for you?
Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC both have pros and cons. Which is better for you comes down to which benefits you are looking for and which is legal in your area. Legality alone may force the decision for you, but if you have the option between the two, we suggest Delta 8 for anyone who is not looking for the ultra-potent, couch lock effects of Delta 9 THC to try out Delta 8.
Now, if you are looking for some of the additional medical benefits and are not prone to anxiety or paranoia, which Delta 9 THC can cause in some users, then give Delta 9 THC a shot.
Either way, there is nothing that says that you cannot try both options and then determine which is best for you. We suggest if you go that route to start off by trying Delta 8 THC and then moving on to its more potent big brother.
Frequently Asked Questions
What States Banned Delta 8?
There are currently 21 states that have banned Delta 8 THC. Those states include: Alaska, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New York, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, South Carolina, Utah, & Vermont.
Do Delta 8 Edibles Get You High?
Yes, Delta 8 is psychoactive and will get you high. It is about 50-60% as potent as traditional THC, or Delta 9 THC.
Are Hemp Gummies and Delta 8 the Same?
Yes, federally legal Delta 8 THC is derived from hemp. Delta 8 is used in many products like edibles, disposable vapes, vape cartridges, flower, dabs, and tinctures.
Is Delta 9 the Same as Marijuana?
No, Delta 9 THC can be found in both Marijuana and hemp. Both of which are from the cannabis plant. Marijuana has a much higher Delta 9 THC content than hemp does. Hemp's Delta 9 THC must be no more than 0.3% Delta 9 THC content on a dry weight basis.
What Are Delta 9 Gummies?
Hemp derived Delta 9 gummies have grown in popularity ever since Delta 9 THC products became legal at the federal level. These gummies are infused with THC which gives the user an uplifting euphoric feeling while relaxing your body.
Is Delta 9 Legal Federally?
Yes, hemp derived Delta 9 THC is legal at the federal level due to the passing of the 2018 farm bill, which defines hemp as containing no more than 0.3% Delta 9 THC.
Conclusion
As you can see, both Delta 8 and Delta 9 have many pros and some cons for each. We hope that this was helpful in allowing you to evaluate both and make a final decision on if, or which, cannabinoid is right for you. Regardless of which you choose, be sure to remember to be safe and only purchase your hemp derived Delta 8 and Delta 9 products from reputable sources.
We, at Everyday Delta pride ourselves on only offering top tier products from brands that we personally vet before any of that company's products ever land on our shelves. Customer safety is so important to us that if a product has not been third party tested for potency, compliance, and safety we will not offer it to you.
Check out all of the Delta 8 and Delta 9 products we offer, from edibles & gummies to disposable vapes, vape cartridges, and tinctures.
