The Differences Between Delta-8 & Delta-9
Both Delta-8 and Delta-9 are derivatives from plants within the cannabis family, but there are distinct differences between the two. Delta-8 is a more recently known distillate, highlighting the variation and complexity found within the compounds or cannabinoids and tetrahydrocannabinol extracted from cannabis plants. They are similar in how they connect with the body, binding to CB1 receptors in the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). This system keeps the body in equilibrium, healthy, and functioning properly.
Delta-9
Traditionally, Delta-9 is the fancy term for the compound that causes the effects of marijuana, or more specifically the type of THC that affects the brain that makes you feel high via a strong head and body effect. Delta-9 is not found in the plant itself, but is created from heating up the bud or cannabis flower through a process called decarboxylation. The chemical reaction within the compound THCa creates the psychoactive cannabinoid. It is worth noting the potential side effects that result from consuming Delta-9, which are not as present from consuming Delta-8. Some of them may cause you to have an increase in appetite or the munchies, a higher heart rate, paranoia or hallucinations, and several other side effects. In certain instances increasing appetite may be medically necessary, but most of the side effects can be undesirable, especially for daily use. This is where Delta-8 differs, and can provide a better solution for frequent cannabis consumption.
Delta-8
This cannabinoid, also a tetrahydrocannabinol, is very close in composition to Delta-9, but is produced in far lesser quantities in hemp and marijuana plants than its counterpart. It also doesn’t create as strong of a psychotropic effect as Delta-9. This article shares that Delta-8 can be a way to enjoy cannabis legally in most states, and more gently than Delta-9 and marijuana-derived compounds. Since Delta-8 is classified as CBD under the Farm Bill, it does not have the regulations in many states that Delta-9 and marijuana-derived THC have. CBD and derivatives of CBD are Federally legal, with variations of acceptance at each state level.
When freely enjoying Delta-8, the sought after benefits like creating a sense of calm are reportedly the same in Delta-8 and Delta-9, however there are a few additional reported benefits. This article states that Delta-8 may be responsible for relieving pain and inflammation according to several studies. Additional benefits also include its function as a natural sleep aid and its help in reducing anxiety. The benefit of consuming Delta-8 is that it does not interfere with mental alertness or memory as Delta-9 can.
If you’re interested in learning more about how consuming Delta-8 affects the mind and body in comparison to Delta-9, see our article here on dosing, usage, and consumption methods.
