Many people seek out THC for the benefits they provide. However, they are also popular recreationally, but because of the number of different types of THC available, there may be some confusion about them.
Do you want to know the big difference between the two cannabinoid compounds, Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC? We explain the differences in this article.
Not to be mistaken for CBD, which you have certainly heard of.
But first, before we get into the details, here is a list of the top Delta 8 products on the market right now.
- Koi Delta 8 Gummies – Strawberry 25mg 20 count $39.99
- Mystic Labs Delta 8 THC Gummies – Mixed Berry 25mg – $19.99-$49.99
- CannaAid – Delta 8 Gummies – Strawberry – 30mg $7.99-$39.99
- NuLeaf Naturals Delta 8 THC Tincture Oil – $24.99-$144.99
- Hyper Delta 10 + D8 Square Gummies – 1250X Fruity 25mg 50 count – $59.99
- 3Chi Delta 8 THC Vape Carts – Grandaddy Purple – $39.99
- Delta Effex Balance Delta 8 Tincture Oil – Tropical Passionfruit 1000mg 30ml – $39.99
Extraction
Delta 9 THC is a major cannabinoid found in abundance, and extraction is relatively cheap and straightforward. Because of that, this is usually derived from the marijuana plant itself.
However, the extraction of Delta 8 THC requires a lot of work because Delta 8 is a minor cannabinoid. Since cannabis produces so little natural Delta 8, it's not worth the considerable effort to extract it.
Fortunately, there is another way to produce Delta 8. It was discovered that Delta 8 could be manufactured entirely from CBD using solvents. Unfortunately, this method is more expensive but has made creating Delta 8 products accessible. Most Delta 8 products offered today are derived from hemp rather than marijuana, and this is how they regulate their concentrations to stay under 0.3% Delta 9 THC, the threshold required for it to be legal.
Effects
One of the significant differences between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC is their effects, which is also the deciding factor for people who use it.
Delta 9 is considerably more potent than Delta 8. Some believe it to be about twice as strong. The side effects are more intense, including paranoid delusions, increased feelings of anxiety, impaired motor skills, and mental fog.
People say Delta 8 provides a much more pleasant experience. Most users feel calm and clear-headed; many describe a definite “high” in the experience, but not enough to impair your ability to focus or form coherent thoughts. You may, however, feel relaxed and unburdened with stress.
It takes longer for Delta 8 to work itself into your system, but Delta 9 has a rapid onset that you feel instantly.
Products
In terms of products, the two cannabinoids are very similar. You can smoke the flower, inhale the vapor, or consume them in edible forms. You can easily find various edibles, capsules, tinctures, and topicals.
Legality
As you probably know, marijuana isn't legal federally in the United States. Instead, there is a strong push for legality, with 34 states that have legalized it for medical or adult use.
Delta 8 is still technically legal on a federal level, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, this legalized hemp production and didn't prohibit deriving Delta 8 from hemp and creating products.
Due to the psychoactive nature of Delta 8, it has attracted several local bans on the state level. Currently, 15 states restrict the sale and use of Delta 8 products and another six where actions are pending.
Even though Delta 8 is easier to find than Delta 9 right now, how long that will last is unknown.
Availability
Suppose you live in a state where you can safely buy and consume Delta 9 THC; good for you. Go to your local dispensary to get what you need. It's hard to find options online since shipping it across state lines is prohibited.
The availability of Delta 8 is much different. Since it's legal federally, Delta 8 can be shipped across state lines. There are a lot of retailers for Delta 8 products because of it.
You can also find Delta 8 products locally, but this is where you should have caution. For example, we wouldn't recommend picking it up at the gas station or some sketchy shop.
Like many supplements, Delta 8 isn't regulated by the FDA, equating to an abundance of low-quality products that could have all kinds of contamination or pesticides.
When you shop for Delta 8, you should make sure it's a reputable and trustworthy brand, its website should have information about its production process, and lab results should be easy to view or obtain. You can find more info and options to buy here.
One of those companies is Direct Delta 8; they are a premier marketplace for all things Delta 8 THC. They source all the major brands of vape, prerolls, edibles, tinctures, and distillates with enviable strains and flavors. They even categorize products by Indica, Sativa, or hybrid.
Conclusion:
Your decision to buy Delta 8 or Delta 9 products boils down to your personal needs and desire; they share some common traits but enough differences to note.
Delta 9 may be considered the “classic” choice by some in the cannabis community, but Delta 8 is quickly gaining popularity since it's milder and legal. It may end up becoming a preferred form of THC for most people.
Finally, if you desire to improve your health and energy level, you may want to pay attention to your sleep schedule. According to this study, there is a link between getting good sleep leads to better concentration, more energy, faster metabolism, and lower inflammation.
