Delta-8 vs. Delta-9: What Are The Major Differences?

THC, a type of cannabinoid present in cannabis, is the psychoactive component responsible for the "high" feeling some users report. Due to their shared etymology and structural similarity, the two forms of THC, Delta-9 and Delta-8, both found in the Sativa cannabis plant, are often misidentified. 

You undoubtedly found several items that contain these cannabinoids after doing some research. Since they were finally allowed to be sold legally, their use has skyrocketed as more and more people discover the benefits they provide.

If you're feeling lost, don't worry; we can assist you. This in-depth comparison of Delta-8 and Delta-9 will enable you to make educated purchasing decisions in the future.

Introduction to Delta-8

Delta-8 THC, unlike CBD, has psychoactive effects, albeit they are typically less strong than delta-9 THC.

Delta-8 THC can be found in numerous edible and ingestible formats, including candy, gummies, chocolate, cookies, infused beverages, tinctures, vape cartridges, and even morning cereal.

Unfortunately, the FDA has not reviewed the therapeutic claims made by the manufacturers of delta-8 THC products. 

Introduction to Delta-9

The main psychoactive compound found in cannabis is delta-9 THC. Most people become "high" from smoking or ingesting delta-9 THC after reaching a specific threshold.

Gummies, biscuits, chocolates, infused beverages, cartridges, tinctures, vaping, topical lotions, and pre-rolled "joints" are just some of the various delta-9 THC products available at cannabis shops in places where it is legal to do so.

Many delta-9 THC medications are marketed by their producers with the claim that they can cure or alleviate the symptoms of a wide variety of ailments and medical problems. 

Only two synthetic THC formulations, dronabinol and nabilone, are currently approved by the FDA. Nabilone is also prescribed to AIDS patients to stimulate their appetite.

Delta-8 vs. Delta-9: Detailed Overview

Since Delta-8 and Delta-9 have very similar effects and characteristics, it is tempting to treat them as interchangeable. Even their chemical structures are nearly identical, with just a few electrons separating Delta-8 and 9.

However, there are a few significant distinctions to keep in mind. Let's learn more about the fundamental characteristics of Delta-8 and Delta-9 to better understand their distinctions.

Chemical Structure

The molecular structures of delta-8 THC and delta-9 THC are quite similar, yet there are important variances between the two. The two cannabinoids differ, for instance, in where the double bond is located along the chain of carbon atoms.

The double bonds in delta-8 THC are on the molecule's eighth carbon atom, whereas those in delta-9 THC are on the molecule's ninth carbon atom. This is the reason why delta-8 THC and delta-9 THC have been given their names. 

The location of the double bond on the carbon chain affects how the compound binds with CB1 found in the body's central nervous system.

Legality

For those who cannot obtain delta-9 THC legally, delta-8 THC is a popular alternative. Products containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight, like industrial hemp, were made lawful by the 2018 Farm Bill. 

Many cannabis manufacturers interpreted hemp products with less than 0.3% THC as being lawful. The legitimacy of Delta-8 has been questioned on both the national and state levels.

Production

Remember that delta-9 THC is the predominant cannabinoid in cannabis, while delta-8 THC only occurs in very low doses.

Female cannabis plants have a higher percentage of delta-9 THC, making biomass extraction a more efficient and cost-effective method for manufacturers. After the buds or trim have been harvested, dried, cured, and flash frozen, the delta-9-rich biomass is extracted using either ethanol, carbon dioxide (CO2), or light hydrocarbons (propane and butane).

The extraction process for delta-8 THC from hemp plants is more laborious because it is found in lower amounts in the cannabis plant. For delta-8 THC to be synthesized from a CBD isolate, a variety of solvents, acids, and regents are required. 

Despite being derived from hemp, a lawful crop, the product itself is illegal due to how it is manufactured.

Potency and Intoxication

Can you get high off of delta-8? 

True, but not nearly as strongly as delta-9 THC. To put it simply, the effects of delta-8 THC are substantially less intense. The effects of delta-9 THC, including euphoria and changes in cognition, are well-known to be powerful and profound.

When taken, delta-8 THC is processed in a distinct way. The impacts of delta-8 THC can be experienced when the compound is inhaled or taken sublingually. Second-pass metabolism converts the delta-8 THC into the THC metabolite 11-hydroxy-THC after consumption. 

Even when ingesting delta-9, the identical procedure occurs. You shouldn't take delta-8 if you're trying to pass a THC drug test.

Availability  

Good for you if you're located in a state where Delta-9 THC is legal to purchase and use recreationally. If you're in need of some cannabis, drop by your neighborhood dispensary. However, there is less variety available online because shipping across state borders is illegal.

The scenario changes when Delta-8 becomes available. Delta 8 can be transported across borders because it is federal law. This has led to a proliferation of internet stores selling Delta 8 components. 

However, for obvious reasons, most reputable businesses won't export to states where Delta-8 is prohibited. You may also purchase Delta 8 in stores. Here's where some care could be useful.

Delta-8 vs. Delta-9- Dosing Facts

No matter whatever cannabinoid you decide to use, it's best to ease into it with a modest dose and gradually increase the strength as tolerance develops. By doing so, you won't have to worry about any of the potentially dangerous side effects.

Delta-8 THC has a recommended dosage range of 10-60mg, while Delta-9 THC has a dosage range of 5--30mg. Every person has their own specific metabolic rate, allergens they're sensitive to, and other personal preferences and requirements. Because of this, your dosage may differ from that of another person.

If you are consuming other drugs, it is very important to visit a doctor or look up recommended dosages online to get the right one for you.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, the preference for Delta-8 THC over Delta 9-THC is subjective. Despite sharing some characteristics, they are otherwise distinct. The softer effects and the legal availability of delta-8 contribute to its rising appeal. The possible future standard for THC consumption.

Last but not least, sleep is proven to improve physical and mental well-being. It's simple to improve your sleep quality. Studies demonstrate that getting a good night's sleep might help with focus, energy, metabolism, and inflammation. A good night's sleep will help you make the most of the benefits listed above and set you up for real success in terms of your health.

Resources:

1. https://www.forbes.com/health/body/delta-8-vs-delta-9/ 
2. https://blog.lunatechequipment.com/delta-8-vs-delta-9
3. https://fusioncbdproducts.com/blogs/news/delta-8-vs-delta-9-what-are-the-differences