Today, we are discussing Delta 9 vs Delta 8. But first, let’s understand what cannabinoids are. Cannabinoids are compounds found in the cannabis plant. They are believed to modulate the human endocannabinoid system, which influences mood, hunger, pain, and various other factors.
Delta-9 THC is the compound most widely recognized in marijuana for its ability to produce intense psychoactive effects or “high” sensations. Its biosynthetic counterpart, Delta-8 THC, tends to produce more subtle psychoactive effects compared to Delta-9.
These compounds are not only derived from hemp or cannabis but are also becoming increasingly common in health and recreational products due to their various effects.
What is Delta 9?
Delta-9 also well known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) remains to be the most active component in cannabis. It is the one responsible for the ‘high’ experienced after the consumption of cannabis. From a structural standpoint, Delta-9 is a Cannabinoid which are chemical compound that is active in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) of the body, where it helps to control moods, enhance appetite suppress pain and memory.
Upon consumption, Delta-9 preferentially attaches itself to the CB1 receptor in the brain and central nervous system, other effects include euphoria, relaxation, perception changes, and in some cases, even anxiety and paranoia.
Although, Delta-9 is generally known as the primary active ingredient in cannabis, other examples like CBD – a non-psychotropic element present in cannabis – influence cognitive processes which is why the recreation of Delta 8 THC is not as impairing as Delta 9.
Delta-9 has many benefits these include, some relief from certain conditions like increased appetite for the patients and prevention of vomiting particularly in those on chemotherapy and other related treatments, and pain alleviation. Nonetheless, it must be done carefully since there are negative effects to it and also the risk of taking excess amounts.
What is Delta 8?
Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8-THC) refers to a naturally produced constituent within the cannabis sativa plant. It is one of the analogs of cannabinoids like Delta-9-THC which is the primary psychoactive agent in cannabis plants. The psychoactive properties of Delta-8 are less strong, offering a more delicate and thorough high than Delta-9.
Related: Is Delta-8 THC legal? State by State Guide
It also has lower potency which often makes it highly preferable for those who want therapeutic benefits without overt influences of the borderline psychotic THC. Normally, Delta-8 is obtained from industrial cannabis, this is because it is only found in trace amounts in both industrial hemp and marijuana plants.
Its legality differs from state to state because it resides in a gray area under the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill which legalized the use and distribution of hemp products that contained less than 0.3% of Delta-9-THC.
Different Between Delta 9 vs Delta 8 (Legality, Strain, High, Molecule, for sleep, effects, dosage, and more)
Delta 9 vs Delta 8 the two cannabis sativa difference in their following aspects are given below:
| Aspects | Delta-9 | Delta-8 |
|---|---|---|
| Legality | Federally illegal (Schedule I under U.S. law) but legal in some states for recreational/medical use. | Legal in many states under the 2018 Farm Bill if derived from hemp (<0.3% Delta-9 THC), but legality varies by state. |
| Strain source | Commonly found in significant amounts in cannabis plants. | Found in smaller amounts in cannabis plants; usually synthesized from hemp-derived CBD. |
| Psychoactive High | Stronger psychoactive effects; may cause anxiety or paranoia in high doses. | Milder psychoactive effects; described as more calming and less intense than Delta-9. |
| Molecular Structure | Double bond at the 9th carbon atom of the cyclohexene ring | Double bond on the 8th carbon chain (slightly different isomer). |
| For Sleep | Effective for sleep but may cause grogginess or intense sedation. | Promotes relaxation and sleep without excessive sedation; better for mild sleep issues. |
| Dosage | Effective dose: 5–20 mg for beginners; higher tolerance users may need 20–50 mg+. | Effective dose: 10–30 mg for beginners; higher tolerance users may need 40–60 mg+. |
| Therapeutic Use | Pain relief, appetite stimulation, anxiety reduction, nausea relief. | Pain relief, anxiety reduction, appetite stimulation, and anti-nausea properties; less likelihood of anxiety compared to Delta-9. |
| Side Effects | Anxiety, paranoia, dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, and dizziness. | Dry mouth, red eyes, mild dizziness, and less likelihood of anxiety or paranoia. |
| Cost | Usually more expensive due to stricter regulations and taxes. | Generally cheaper as it is derived from hemp and less regulated. |
| Effects | Euphoria, increased appetite, altered perception, and relaxation; may induce anxiety in high doses. | Similar but less intense effects; more focused on relaxation and mild euphoria. |
What is Delta 10?
Although Delta-10 Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-10 THC) is found in cannabis plants in rather minimal presence, it is indeed one of the naturally occurring compounds in the cannabinoids. Chemically, it is closely related to Delta-9 THC.
Usually, delta-10 THC is synthetically manufactured out of CBD derived from hemp because of legal and consumer pressure. Delta-10 THC is widely regarded as possessing much fewer psychoactive effects in comparison to delta-8 THC.
It has been observed that the experience associated with this compound is less about an overwhelming high and more about an enhancing yet calming euphoria.
More: What is Delta-9? Its Effects & Legality
Legally, Delta-10 THC is also in a gray area. It is commonly created from hemp which was made legal in America in 2018 for the farming of hemp via the Farm Bill so long as it contains less than 0.3% delta 9 THC.
Not all states, however, address its legality the same, and within some states, it has been specifically limited or even outlawed. A range of goods containing Delta 10 THC such as vape cartridges, edibles, and tinctures are enjoying growing acceptability.
