Delta 8 vs Delta 9: What's the Difference And Benefits

Delta 8 vs Delta 9: What's the Difference And Benefits

Posted by Christian on 26th Apr 2023

People have discovered a trendier way to get high legally with Delta 8 THC, a close relative of the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. Interestingly, Delta 8 is a more appealing option to give you a nice buzz than any other existing hemp product.

With this new cannabinoid permeating through the cannabis industry, some people wonder whether there are differences between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THCs. And which one is better than the other.

Here is a breakdown of Delta 8 vs Delta 9 to help you fully understand them and make informed decisions regarding consumption, handling or distribution.

delta 8 vs delta 9

What is Delta 8?


The cannabis plant is full of naturally occurring cannabinoids, including Delta 8 cannabinoid, which is only available in trace amounts. It is considered an analogue of THC with analgesic, antiemetic, anxiolytic, orexigenic, and neuroprotective properties.

Also, Delta 8 can be produced by converting CBD under variations of temperature and pressure.

The cannabinoid is legal in most parts of the USA since it is extracted from the hemp plant and is less potent than Delta 9, the primary form of THC found in cannabis. Any hemp-based isomer or cannabinoid is legal in the U.S as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC.

What is Delta 9?


What exactly is delta 9? Delta 9 THC, or simply THC, is the main psychoactive or intoxicating cannabinoid in the cannabis plant responsible for the high effect.

It mimics anandamide (a natural chemical produced in the brain) in structure, altering its communication functions. Therefore, instead of the usual brain functioning via neurons, Delta 9 THC attaches to the neurons, changing the process.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse claims that THC affects your thinking, memory, concentration, coordination, pleasure, movements, and sensory and time perception.

Performing things such as driving or operating heavy machinery under the influence of THC is dangerous. For these reasons, it is illegal to use, possess, or distribute it in the United States.

Key Differences Between Delta 8 and Delta 9


Delta 8 vs Delta 9 effects are similar and also different at one point. However, there are several key differences which you should know about.

Chemical Structure


Delta 8 and Delta 9 are isomers of THC, and their difference lies in their chemical structure or bonding at the atomic level. Delta 9 contains a double bond on the 9th carbon chain, while Delta 8 has the same double bond but on the 8th carbon chain.

Perhaps these chemical properties dictate their varying psychoactive effects – Delta 8 has milder psychoactive effects than Delta 9.

Endocannabinoid System


Delta 8 and Delta 9 bind the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in slightly different ways. Delta 9 binds with only CB1 receptors, which are present throughout the body and brain. Upon binding, its effects are pretty strong due to its double bond on the 9th carbon chain.

On the other hand, delta 8 activates both CB1 and CB2 receptors, which induces both the manageable high effect and relaxation feelings.

Availability


Delta 9 is more abundant than Delta 8 in the cannabis plant. THC accounts for up to 30% of the cannabis plant. On the contrary, Delta 8 exists in trace amounts in the cannabis plant, and only the recent technological improvements have been able to isolate it from CBD.

Plus, it is easier to access Delta 8 compared to Delta 9. You do not need to visit a marijuana dispensary or store to get Delta 8 products – most products are available online, provided that they are derived from hemp and contain no more than 0.3% THC.

Availability

Legality


It is better to know the legality of Delta 8, Delta 9, or other hemp-derived products before using them. Delta 8 is federally legal in the United States through its access can vary from state to state, while Delta 9 is illegal.

Essentially, hemp-derived products with a THC content of under 0.3% are legal as per the 2018 Farm Bill.  Even so, some states allow the use of marijuana only for medical purposes.

Dosage and Usage of Delta 8 vs Delta 9


Dosage


What is stronger, Delta 9 or Delta 8? Let’s find out!

The standard Delta 8 dosage for optimal effects ranges from 10mg to 40mg. Your body weight, product source, and how high you want to feel determine the product's amount to take.

Delta 9 dosage, on the other hand, typically varies from 5mg to 20mg. Opt for Delta 9 if you are looking to get quite high. So, Delta 9 is stronger than Delta 8! Be sure to take moderate doses.

Usage


There are a few factors you should consider regarding the usage of Delta 8 vs Delta 9. Some experienced cannabis users will want a super high quickly, which could not be achieved by Delta 8. Basically, tolerance levels of all cannabinoids vary from person to person. Also, they differ with time as the body resists/adjusts its effects.

Luckily, those in states where medical marijuana is allowed will definitely prefer marijuana or THC products to experience stronger psychotropic effects.

At some point, you will want to consider using Delta 8, mainly when you want to avoid the overwhelming, sedative, or mind-altering effects associated with THC. For example, consumers who suffer from paranoia or anxiety because of Delta 9 products might find Delta 8 more helpful.

Both products can be consumed in the same ways; vaping, smoking, tinctures or oils, topicals, and edibles like gummies and capsules. Remember that inhalation and sublingual use render quicker results than topical application and oral ingestion.

Usage

 Benefits of Delta 8 vs Delta 9


Both Delta 8 and Delta 9 THCs are very helpful with some health conditions, provided that they are used safely and controllably. At some point, Delta 8 is considered to be more beneficial than Delta 9. This dates back to their different levels of potency, legality, and influence on the endocannabinoid system.

Treating Nausea


The therapeutic benefits of these two cannabinoids are different. For instance, they are both excellent at relieving nausea and stopping vomiting. But because Delta 8 has lesser psychoactive effects, it’s better than THC in treating nausea and vomiting, especially when it comes to cancer patients during chemotherapy.

Also, Delta 8 is a more powerful immune system activator than Delta 9 since it acts on both CB1 and CB2 receptors. This cannabinoid can relieve nausea and boost appetite effectively. Sadly, Delta 9 is sometimes associated with a lack of appetite.

Relieving Anxiety


Both cannabinoids have similar anti-anxiety effects. Delta 8 can be administered at high doses without elevating anxiety or other side effects. Delta 9 can also relieve anxiety at low doses – high doses can trigger anxiety and fear. In other words, Delta 8 THC’s less psychoactive effects give it a wider therapeutic window.

Relieving Anxiety

 Brain Food


THCs have neuroprotective properties that improve brain function. They can stimulate acetylcholine neurotransmitter in the brain that boost memory, cognition, arousal, and brain neuroplasticity. Unfortunately, high doses of Delta 9 THC are linked to increased memory loss and learning impairment.

Delta 8 has been found to counter these effects, improving learning ability and memory formation even when consumed at high doses.

Pain Relief


Several studies demonstrate that cannabis is safe and effective in relieving chronic pain caused by tissue damage and inflammation, including nervous system damage. Theoretically, Delta 8 and Delta 9 activates CB1 receptors in the brain that manage pain in the entire body.

Combining these two cannabinoids is highly effective in treating conditions associated with multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases. 

Delta 8 vs Delta 9 – Which One Is Better?


Curious about trying Delta 8 vs Delta 9 to get the best fit for you? Delta 8 is the perfect THC to consume. Due to its milder psychoactive effects, Delta 8 THC is great for treating nausea and vomiting, boosting appetite, relieving pain and inflammation, improving brain function, and relaxing.

Delta 9's association with increased risk of developing psychosis, including memory loss, increased anxiety, and fear, makes it a no go zone, especially for beginners. Plus, Delta 8 is legal in most parts of the United States since it is an isomer of legal hemp. Delta 9 is only legal when prescribed for medical or recreational purposes in a few states.

As a result, delta 8 THC extractors and manufacturers have started massive production of this cannabinoid due to its high demand.

Get Premium Delta 8 THC Products Today


Now that you know the similarities and key differences between Delta 8 and Delta 9, it is right time you buy high-quality hemp-derived products.

If you want to enjoy the healing effect of cannabis maximally, be sure to try Delta 8 products from a reputable company. Even better, they are the best option for those who cannot legally access marijuana.

Contact us right now to get top-tier, affordable Delta 8 products. Please, browse our product line anytime you wish!