It doesn’t seem like long ago that THC was just THC—and it was prohibited in most locations. However, with cannabis regulations in the United States easing, you can find various products online, and stores are touting different “deltas” of THC, most often Delta 8 or Delta 9. But what are they, and what does taking them entail for you?
In this post, we’ll go over the differences between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC, as well as discuss some of the most popular THC products.
What Is Delta-8 THC?
Delta 8 is a molecular variation of THC that occurs naturally in the cannabis plant, though in trace amounts. However, it’s usually not worth the effort to extract it. So, why are we seeing it everywhere now?
Scientists have discovered how to synthesize it from another cannabis ingredient called CBD. As you may have noticed, there are many CBDs around, making Delta 8 relatively simple for cannabis companies to produce. Hence make sure to consume delta 8 edibles safely from https://weedsmart.cc/product-category/cbd-canada/cbd-gummies-canada/.
What Is Delta 9 THC?
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is found naturally throughout the cannabis plant, although in slightly varied forms depending on molecular structure. THCa, not psychoactive, is the predominant type of THC in raw, live cannabis. That’s why people dry it, smoke it, or bake it into stuff to achieve the high.
Heat converts THCa to Delta 9 THC, which is responsible for the psychoactive effects. Delta 9 THC is the “natural” version of the molecule because it requires so little processing.
What are the main differences between delta-8 and delta-9 THC?
Dosage
The user always determines the correct dosage, as people have varying tolerance. Significantly, because delta-8 is half the strength of delta-9, most delta-8 products are sold at two to three times the dose of delta-9 products.
Consider the product’s potency before consuming a considerable dose of delta-8 or delta-9. It is recommended that first-time users who are still learning to consume edibles safely should begin with a low dose and gradually increase to obtain the desired sensation.
According to some industry experts, the olivetol byproduct in delta-8 THC products may be the source of the lower intoxication amounts. One patented application of oral olivetol is intended to prevent delta-9 intoxication. This byproduct may reduce delta-8’s potency and produce lower intoxication effects.
Chemical structure
On a molecular level, delta-8 and delta-9 look almost similar except for one minimal but significant difference. Both cannabinoids have double bonds in their chemical chains but different places.
Delta-8’s double bond is located on the eighth carbon chain, as the name implies. However, the double bond in delta-9 is on the 9th carbon chain. It may appear small, but it is not. This minor distinction alters how cannabis interacts with the endocannabinoid system, specifically how well it binds to cannabinoid receptors, resulting in similar but distinct experiences when taken.
Legality and accessibility
Delta-8 THC is significantly more available than delta-9 THC since delta-8 derived from federally compliant hemp varieties is technically legal, according to the 2018 Farm Bill. It means delta-8 is federally legal, not a controlled substance, and is available in most U.S. states.
The delta-9 THC condition is unique. The 2018 Farm Bill does not safeguard it and is classified as a “dangerous” substance. It implies it is officially banned, and minimal evidence supports its safety as a therapeutic or recreational substance.
Delta-9 products are only available if you live in the U.S., where medicinal or recreational cannabis is allowed.
Feeling
Delta-8 produces a less intense but arguably more enjoyable high when consumed. An old study paper says it’s less effective and sedating, yet anecdotal evidence is more compelling.
Some believe delta-8 is as strong as delta-9 but has less of a euphoric “kick,” while others think it is somewhere in between, resulting in a clear-headed body high without feeling too “heavy.” However, it all comes down to the dose and strength of your delta-8 product.
Drug test
Delta-8 and delta-9 are absorbed by your digestive system and processed by your liver. When digested, they split into different metabolites that circulate through your blood and are stored in adipose tissue and hair follicles for up to 60-90 days.
Because the metabolites of delta-8 and delta-9 are nearly identical, drug testing cannot distinguish between the two. Your medication test will almost certainly be a false or positive regardless of which one you take.
Side effects
There is a widespread misunderstanding that delta-8 intake has no adverse side effects. It is entirely false. Like delta-9, it can cause anxiety, uneasiness, paranoia, enhanced self-awareness, and sickness. However, a far higher dose is required for adverse effects to emerge.
Potency and Intoxication
Do you get high on delta-8? Yes, although not to the same extent as delta-9 THC. The high from Delta-8 THC is substantially milder. Delta-9 THC is well-known for eliciting pleasure and other cognitive impacts through its solid and intoxicating effects.
Remember, delta-8 THC metabolizes differently when ingested. When delta-8 THC is taken, it undergoes second-pass metabolism and is transformed into 11-hydroxy-THC, a THC metabolite. The same thing happens when you consume delta-9.
Conclusion
Knowing the distinctions between delta-9 and delta-8 THC is critical for achieving the desired high. Delta-8 is ideal if you want to experience a euphoric high without the risk of overpowering adverse effects. Consider it a decent starting point, similar to training wheels before consuming delta-9.
