Trying to learn all you can about the 100+ cannabinoids found in hemp and cannabis can feel a bit like you’ve been transported back to your high school chemistry class. This is particularly true when researching closely related compounds like Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC.
But while you may hear a bit about double bonds and carbon atoms when learning about Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC, the most important discrepancies between the two have little to do with their atomic arrangement. And you don’t need a degree in organic chemistry to comprehend them, either.
We’ve created this comprehensive comparison guide to help you understand the key differences between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC. Check it out before you give either of these cannabinoids a try to make the most informed decision.
What is the Difference Between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC?
Before delving into the intricate differences between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, it’s essential to first understand the fundamental characteristics that set them apart. This foundational knowledge will provide a solid basis for comprehending the more complex aspects that distinguish these two cannabinoids.
Chemical Composition
Although Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC are nearly identical in their chemical composition, a subtle variation in their atomic structures sets them apart. Both cannabinoids share the same molecular formula, but the key difference lies in the positioning of a double bond between carbon atoms. In Delta-8 THC, this double carbon bond is located on the eighth carbon ring, whereas in Delta-9 THC, it is positioned on the ninth.
Discovery
Believe it or not, Delta-9 THC was identified later than Delta-8. The landmark isolation of Delta-9 in 1964 by Israeli chemist Raphael Mechoulam came years after Delta-8 had been recognized as a distinct cannabinoid. Delta-8’s discovery dates back to 1941, credited to a research team led by renowned organic chemist Roger Adams at the University of Illinois, thus establishing its presence in cannabinoid research well before Delta-9’s emergence.
Public Awareness
Despite being discovered over two decades before Delta-9, Delta-8 THC remained largely obscure outside scientific realms until recent times, especially in the context of Delta-9 vs. THC in all its other forms. This lack of public awareness persisted because Delta-8 was not a featured ingredient in cannabinoid products. It wasn’t until the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp cultivation and the use of its derivatives in consumer products that Delta-8 began gaining prominence.
In contrast, Delta-9 THC has long been the most recognized cannabinoid among the general public. Historically, it was synonymous with THC itself. Before the emergence of Delta-8, Delta-10, and their chemical relatives in the cannabinoid market, there was no distinction made between Delta-9 and THC in general. Delta-9 was, for a long time, the sole THC compound known to most people.
Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 THC: Psychoactive Effects
Now that we’ve covered some of the more basic Delta-8 vs. 9 differences, it’s time to delve into the differences more pertinent to your personal experience with these cannabinoids.
One of the most notable differences is in the psychoactive effects the two provide. While the experiences offered by these two cannabinoids are not radically different from one another, there are some distinctions that are worth noting.
Delta-8 Effects
The basic characteristics of the Delta-8 THC psychoactive experience are essentially the same as those of the Delta-9 high. You can anticipate feelings of euphoria and relaxation, altered perception, enhanced creative thinking, appetite stimulation, and more.
However, depending on your chosen strain, you may have a slightly different experience. For instance, a Sativa-forward strain will have you feeling more energized, while an Indica strain will leave you feeling more subdued and calm.
Less Potent
Which is stronger, Delta-8 or Delta-9 THC?
One of the most notable differences in the Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 high is that Delta-8 is slightly less potent than Delta-9. While you will be experiencing many of the same effects regardless of which cannabinoid you go with, choosing Delta-8 means the experience will often be milder.
No Anxiety or Paranoia
Despite its incredible popularity, Delta-9 THC is known to occasionally cause some anxiety and paranoia, particularly in those who are unaccustomed to its effects or have simply taken too much of it. Delta-8 is often recognized for lacking those unpleasant side effects.
Delta-9 Effects
The psychoactive experience of Delta-9 THC has all the same traits as Delta-8 THC. You may feel an uplifted mood, an intense sense of relaxation, enhanced creative thinking, a shift in your perception, an increased appetite, and more.
More Potent
If you’re looking for the more potent psychoactive experience of the two, Delta-9 is considered to be the winner in that realm. The difference between them is not necessarily tremendous, but you are likely to notice a more intense effect from the better-known form of THC.
Potential for Anxiety and Paranoia
The heightened potency of Delta-9 THC also brings a greater possibility of experiencing adverse side effects. As mentioned earlier, consuming too much Delta-9 can sometimes lead to feelings of anxiety and paranoia, highlighting the need for more cautious use.
For this reason, newcomers to the world of psychoactive cannabinoids trying to choose between Delta-8 or Delta-9 THC may want to consider the former.
Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 THC: Legality and Regulation
Another of the most notable (and important) differences between these two cannabinoids is their legality on both the federal and state levels. The law looks at Delta-8 quite differently than it does Delta-9 in many instances, and that can make a big difference in which of the two you might want to try.
To make sure you stay on the right side of the law in your adventures with cannabinoids, take a look at the laws and regulations surrounding Delta-8 vs. THC in its other forms.
Delta-8 Legality
The reason why Delta-8 THC products have become so incredibly popular in recent years is that it has only recently become legal to create, sell, and possess them.
It all began with the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, which allowed for the cultivation of industrial hemp in the United States. With hemp cultivation legal on the federal level, hemp-derived products like Delta-8 were also made legal, provided they contain no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC.
However, legislators in some states have since gone on to create new laws banning or regulating Delta-8. Products containing the cannabinoid are currently legal (with limited regulation) in 22 states, plus Washington DC.
Remember that it’s always important to keep an eye on your state’s laws regarding Delta-8, as they are subject to change.
Delta-9 Legality
The legal status of Delta-9 THC has been a contentious issue among cannabis advocates and various levels of government in the United States for many years. However, recent times have seen a gradual shift in perspective. An increasing number of states are legalizing this cannabinoid each year, reflecting a significant change in public opinion toward cannabis. Despite this progress, a major hurdle remains: Delta-9 THC is still illegal at the federal level.
Moreover, some states continue to firmly oppose the legalization of recreational Delta-9 THC. Nevertheless, as of now, 20 states have legalized its recreational use, indicating a complex and evolving legal landscape for this cannabinoid.
Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 THC: Potential Health Benefits
While the recreational effects of both Delta-8 and Delta-9 are enough on their own to make the cannabinoids incredibly popular, some possible therapeutic benefits broaden their potential applications tremendously. Research into these health benefits is still ongoing, but several studies have yielded some exciting results.
Let’s take a look at the differences between these two cannabinoids as it relates to their potential therapeutic benefits.
Delta-8 Benefits
Much like Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 may have the potential to ease physical and mental discomfort, provide increased relaxation, stimulate the appetite, and help you get to sleep. But although the general benefits may be nearly identical, there is a distinction between the two that might make a considerable difference.
Because Delta-8 is considered to have fewer unpleasant side effects like anxiety and paranoia, it may be the preferred option for anyone seeking relief from the cannabinoid, particularly if that relief was sought due to any mental discomfort they may be feeling.
Delta-9 Benefits
Studies have found that Delta-9 THC may be effective in relieving physical discomfort, stimulating appetite, increasing relaxation, helping people with sleep difficulties, nausea relief, and more. Many more potential benefits, such as Delta-9’s anticonvulsant characteristics, are currently being researched.
The prospect of reaping many potential benefits from a single plant like Delta-9 THC is indeed thrilling. However, it’s crucial to remain mindful of the possible side effects associated with excessive consumption. These can include drowsiness, dry mouth, anxiety, and paranoia, underscoring the importance of moderation and responsible use.
Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 THC: Consumption Methods
There are many different ways to enjoy both the recreational and therapeutic effects of Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC. Even in states where recreational cannabis is currently illegal, there are specific ways to enjoy legal Delta-9 products. If you’re curious about exploring the worlds of these two amazing cannabinoids, look at the most popular ways to begin your journey.
Edibles
Edibles are cannabinoid-infused snacks and sweets, like chocolates, caramels, gummy candies, and more. They make consuming your Delta-8 or Delta-9 easier and more enjoyable for many. If you are looking to avoid inhalation and want something discreet and delicious, you should strongly consider this option.
Surprisingly, legal Delta-9 gummies are available even in states where recreational cannabis isn’t legal. This is because these gummies comply with the legal criteria for a cannabinoid product: they are derived from hemp and contain no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight. Despite this low concentration, they still possess enough Delta-9 THC to provide the psychoactive experience sought by many users.
Topicals
Edibles show the fun side of cannabinoid consumption, but topicals fall more onto the “all business” end of the spectrum. These products are cannabinoid-infused creams, balms, salves, and lotions that can be applied directly to problem areas for highly effective targeted relief.
The benefit of topicals is they require very little fuss for you to get the relief you need, and they are absorbed directly into the skin for fast-acting results.
Flower
Flower is the raw plant material from which all of these products were originally derived, and it still offers plenty of benefits that none of the others can provide. These beautiful buds can be enjoyed in a lot of different ways, including smoking them in a pipe or joint, vaping them, or using them to create edibles of your own.
Delta-9 flower is, of course, just cannabis, which means that unless you live in a state where recreational weed is legal or you’ve got a medical card, you are out of luck legally enjoying it in your jurisdiction.
However, there is still Delta-8 flower for sale, which meets all of the legal requirements for a legal cannabinoid product and, therefore, may be the solution to all your cannabinoid flower needs.
You can even get your Delta-8 flower in the form of pre-made joints that are perfectly rolled and ready to go. Delta-8 pre-rolls are not only super convenient but an enjoyable experience for users looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy Delta-8 THC.
Vaping
Vaping offers many benefits similar to smoking flower and some other unique advantages. These devices are engineered to heat a cartridge filled with cannabinoid oil, transforming it into a terpene-rich, psychoactive vapor upon the press of a button. This method leaves no lingering smoke odor behind, produces no ashy residue, and delivers an excellent taste.
Among the variety of vapes available, some are rechargeable for repeated use, while others are designed as disposable vapes. These disposable vapes, which are meant to be discarded after the cannabinoid oil is depleted, are a fantastic option for those who are new to vaping cannabinoids and wish to try them without a long-term commitment.
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