Growing expansion in the world of THC and CBD in the light of discoveries has presented us with innovative means of benefitting from the cannabinoids in hemp plants. Delta 8 is the latest entrant in the cannabinoid radar which has been creating quite some noise, and for the right reasons. However, the more seasoned cannabis veterans swear by their close cousin Delta 9. Today we will take a closer look at both compounds alongside their differences so that you know which one will serve you best.
Delta 8
Delta 8 THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid similar to CBD, that is derived from the hemp plant. It is present in small concentrations and requires passing through a fractional distillation process. Delta 8 can be sourced from both marijuana and hemp. But it’s hard to extract and isolate as it constitutes less than 1% of the entire cannabinoid profile in cannabis. Though most of us associate THC with its high and intoxicating effects, Delta 8 THC isn’t as psychoactive as Delta 9 and only produces mild effects. It has climbed up the popularity ladder as it offers an array of advantages sans the overbearing side effects of Delta 9. This is why most people consider Delta 8 to be the perfect harmony between CBD and Delta 9 THC.
Benefits of Delta 8 THC
- Improved sleep quality
- Pain relief
- Improved appetite
- Calming of an overactive immune or nervous system
- Reduced inflammation
- Sensory overstimulation prevention
Risks of Delta 8 THC
Excess consumption of Delta 8 THC than what is required by our body can lead to short-term adverse effects. However, the negative effects depend on the dosage, and thus its severity increase with greater consumption. Some of the adverse effects of Delta 8 THC overconsumption are disorientation, lethargy, dry mouth and eyes, anxiety, impaired coordination, and increased heart rate. These effects resolve automatically within a few hours of inhalation and several hours of edible consumption.
Delta 9
Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC is a psychoactive cannabinoid extracted from the cannabis plant. It can be found in high quantities in marijuana with Delta 9 THC being the most common type of THC. It renders the high that a lot of people seek. THC activates the brain receptors which are linked with appetite, memory, auditory and visual perception, and other senses. As THC binds with these receptors, it causes a euphoric feeling. Despite being popular, Delta 9 THC carries various adverse side effects as it alters our body chemistry.
Benefits of Delta 9 THC
- Decreased anxiety
- Heightened imagination
- Relaxation
- Increased appetite
- Improved sensory perception
- Feelings of happiness
Risks of Delta 9 THC
Some of the common side effects of consuming Delta 9 THC are red eyes, dry mouth, anxiety or paranoia, sedation, confusion, decreased motor function, impaired decision-making abilities, feeling unhappy, uneasy, or dissatisfied, and fatigue or extreme drowsiness.
Similarities between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC
Both Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC are composed of the same set of elements, namely hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen. They activate our body’s CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors including the ones in our central nervous system. Active CB1 receptors help to increase relaxation promotes better sleep, protect and heal nerves, prevent sensory overstimulation, reduce pain, and improve appetite. Activating CB2 receptors primarily helps in reducing inflammation and calming overactive immune systems, both of which ultimately help in improving various chronic conditions.
Differences between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC
- The main distinctions between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC lie in their chemical structure and effects. Both cannabinoids bind to our body’s endocannabinoid system receptors similarly to render a euphoric effect. However, there lies a difference in the way each compound undertakes this process due to the double bond in their chemical structure. Both Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC carries a double bond structure and a chain of carbon atoms. While Delta-8 has a double bond on the eighth carbon, Delta-9 has a double bond on the ninth. Different locations of the carbon double bond cause Delta 8 to bind differently to the receptors.
- Several researchers believe that the separate binding location decreases the potency of Delta 8 and makes it 50% less intoxicating compared to Delta 9. The sensations aren’t as strong with Delta 8 THC making this the preferred choice for many people. This results in mild euphoria which comes in the middle ground of CBD and Delta 9 THC. Users can also benefit from increased energy and a clearer mind while bypassing the undesired side effects of Delta 9.
- Delta 9 gummies are obtained using a CO2 manufacturing process which makes them safe to ingest and doesn’t contaminate them in any way. The Delta 8 variants are obtained following a slightly older technology which impairs their quality compared to Delta 9 ones.
Choosing between Delta 8 and Delta 9 gummies
Delta 9 users report a decrease in mental clarity and an increase in confusion, an increase in anxiety, heart rate, and paranoia coupled with an intense high that hits you all at once. The Delta 8 gummies offer a slightly less psychoactive high and a more clear-headed mindset. You can go for Delta 9 if the first set of characteristics suits you better however, Delta 8 might be your newest best friend if the second set of characteristics seems more attractive.
- Does Delta-8 show up on a drug test?
Delta-8 THC won’t yield any positive result for THC on a drug test unlike Delta-9 THC unless the test searches specifically for Delta-8 THC metabolites. Coupled with the growing popularity of Delta-8 THC, certain commercial laboratories are offering confirmation analysis for Delta-8 THC for drug tests.
- What is the legality of Delta 8 and Delta 9?
Delta 8 is a fairly new concept that is currently being researched. There aren’t any specific laws about the usage or production of Delta 8 products as these surround the use of CBD and Delta 9 THC products. Following the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, all hemp-derived and hemp products have been legalized in the United States. You can legally purchase Delta 8 products provided it’s derived from hemp and not marijuana and carries either or less than 0.3% THC. Delta 9 THC is considered illegal in many states as it usually contains more than 0.3% THC and is thus considered a marijuana product.
- Why are Delta 8 products preferred over Delta 9?
Delta 8 products are highly sought after as they don’t leave you feeling intoxicated like Delta 9 ones. If you want to go through the day with an additional boost of energy and focus while still enjoying mild euphoria, then Delta 8 gummies can serve you well. They induce a feeling of calmness and relaxation without the overbearing effects that Delta 9 is infamous for. The high potency level of Delta 9 THC can leave you feeling paranoid and anxious. There is also a high chance of getting addicted as Delta 9 THC gummies alter our body chemistry.
- How long does Delta 8 last compared to Delta 9?
The effects produced by Delta 8 can last anywhere between two to six hours. This timing is the same in the case of Delta 9 THC. However, the effects are less potent with Delta 8 and tend to wear off more quickly.
- How Do Delta 8 Gummies Work?
Ingesting Delta 8 THC slows down the activation rate compared to smoking or vaping. These edibles need to pass through our digestive tract before the effects kick in. You will experience the effects once the cannabinoid reaches your liver. However, how quickly the Delta 8 gummies act depends on various factors like your weight, metabolism, and food consumed. The effects might be induced within a few minutes if you have an empty stomach and fast metabolism. However, it could take more than an hour if you have just finished a large lunch and your metabolism is running slowly.
- What is the recommended dose of Delta 8?
Newbies can start with around 6mg of Delta 8 THC. You can start by cutting your gummy appropriately and eating it to see how the effects feel. A waiting time of 90 minutes should be allowed before consuming more. Intermediate users can start with ½ of one whole 25 mg gummy. Advanced users with a high level of tolerance can start with one to two 50 mg gummies.
