The on-going legalization of cannabis and popularity of CBD oils, have created a boom in demand for these products in the USA. The Industry is growing rapidly, and THC and CBD products are consistently being innovated upon by companies trying to stand out in the market. Recently, a new type of cannabinoid has gained popularity: Delta 8. It is similar to Delta 9, the most abundant form of THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis), but is said to be less psychoactive and provides a clearer head than Delta 9. Some prefer the new Delta 8, while others stick with Delta 9. What’s the difference anyway?
To make sense of all this, let’s compare the similarities and differences of each product. Delta 8 vs Delta 9. Let the debate begin!
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexel
Delta 8 vs Delta 9: What Are They?
Cannabis plants contain a large number of cannabinoids. Each plant chemical has a unique effect on the human body. One of these cannabinoids is CBD. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is another commonly known cannabinoid. And when we talk about THC, we usually mean Delta 9. The chemical compound THC also exists in other forms, such as Delta 8 and Delta 10.
Delta 9
A cannabis plant’s greatest source of THC is Delta 9. Cannabis’ psychoactive properties are attributed to this form of THC, which is also the most studied and well-known. Delta-9-THC has been shown to have a range of effects on the body, including pain relief, relaxation, and euphoria. There are numerous Delta-9-THC products available, such as gummies, cookies, candies, infused drinks, tinctures, vaping cartridges, topical lotions, and pre-rolled joints. The compound has the potential to provide the following benefits:
- Relaxation and reduction of anxiety
- An increase in appetite
- The feeling of happiness or exhilaration
- Enhanced imagination
- Enhancement of sensory perception
Delta 8
Delta 8 THC is a less powerful form of THC that has similar medical benefits to Delta 9 without being as psychoactive. Therefore, it is considered a safer alternative to Delta 9. Delta 8 has a more subtle and calming effect on consumers compared to Delta 9, but still offers many of the same therapeutic benefits, including relief of pain, inflammation, nausea, and anxiety, as well as a mild sedative effect. There are many forms of Delta-8 THC, including chocolate, gummies, cookies, tinctures, vaping cartridges, and even breakfast cereals. Potential benefits of Delta 8 vs Delta 9 are
- Pain relief
- Improved sleep quality
- A calming effect on an overactive immune system or nervous system
- Improved appetite
- Preventing overstimulation of the senses
- A reduction in inflammation
Delta 8 vs Delta 9: Differences & Similarities
Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC are both composed of the same elements (carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen), differing only in their arrangement. Despite their similar composition, Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC the slight change in arrangement can cause different reactions. Let’s compare the similarities and differences between the two:
Delta 8 vs Delta 9: Similarities
Both compounds activate our body’s CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, located in our central nervous system.
Activation of CB1 receptors has analgesic, sleep-inducing, relaxing, and calming effects on an overactive nervous system; appetite stimulation, nerve protection/healing, and prevention of sensory overstimulation are other effects of CB1 receptors activation. Delta 8 and Delta 9 can reduce inflammation and calm an overactive immune system, both of which are critical for improving chronic diseases.
Delta 8 vs Delta 9: Differences
Delta 9 THC has been studied for almost 60 years, while the literature on Delta 8 THC is limited. Another major difference between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC is potency. Delta 8 THC can be expected to be about a quarter to a third less potent than equivalent amounts of Delta 9 THC.
It is possible to smoke or vaporize Delta 9 THC in flower (bud) form without extraction, but edibles, topicals, and other preparations must be extracted. Delta 8 THC products, on the other hand, are synthesized, extracted, and purified from cannabis-derived CBD. In addition, Delta 8 is on average more expensive than Delta 9, with Delta 8 products generally costing about 10% to 20% more than Delta 9 equivalents.
Why Does Cannabis Appeal To So Many People?
Cannabis products attract all kinds of people. Many see them as a natural and safe alternative to many pharmaceutical drugs. They are also used to treat a variety of conditions, from anxiety and depression to chronic pain and insomnia. The products are also becoming increasingly accepted in society and are legal in many states.
A 2021 study looked at Delta 8 users and found that half of the people surveyed used Delta 8 for medical reasons, including
- Bipolar disorder
- Panic attacks
- Stress
- Depression
- Chronic pain
Can Delta 8 Or Delta 9 Show Up on a Drug Test?
Delta 8 and Delta 9 have very similar chemical structures and bind to the body’s endocannabinoid receptors. However, Delta 8 is less likely to show up in a drug test than Delta 9 because it’s a less potent form of THC unless the test is specifically looking for Delta 8 THC metabolites.
There is no way to definitively say if Delta 8 THC won’t produce a positive result in a drug test because it all depends on the product used, its quality, and the type of test.
Delta 8 vs Delta 9, Which Should You Choose?
There is no right or wrong way when choosing the right cannabis extracts for you. Different situations may call for different products. Some people may prefer the potent “high” of Delta 9, while others are more likely to go for the stronger pain-relieving properties of cannabis’ milder cousin, Delta-8. Furthermore, in 2018, the U.S. Congress passed the Farm Bill legalizing hemp-derived chemicals. So as long as a Delta 8 product uses hemp-derived CBD as its raw material, it is legal under federal law.
Depending on what kind of experience you are looking for, one may be more suitable for you than the other.
Bottom Line
Though, regardless of which option you choose, you must buy from a reputable provider to ensure quality and safety. Always choose a supplier that is certified and whose product is grown organically and processed safely. At Nurse Wellness, our expertise and partnerships with the best THC and CBD manufacturers in the US, allow us to put together the finest selection of products that are safe and pure! If you still can’t decide between Delta 8 or Delta 9, we are always looking to help. Contact us anytime with any questions or if you want to know more about any of our products!
