Comparison: Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC
To understand the similarities and differences between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC,vape cartridges you have to delve into the subjects of hemp, cannabis, and cannabinoids. When it comes to both cannabis and hemp, the subject goes beyond the most popular cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. While all the spotlight, research, and popularity go out to those major cannabinoids, where and when should we expect some love towards the minor ones? Sit back, relax, and take our favorite minor cannabinoid, Delta-8 THC, out for a spin.
In this article, we’re going to duke it out between Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC — what are their similarities, differences, and benefits? We’ll also dive into the legality of these cannabinoids and how their legality ultimately affects you, the user. Lastly, we’ll touch on the reasons people are beginning to make the switch from traditional Delta-9 THC products to Delta-8.
What Is Delta-9 THC?
Before we can understand the relationship between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC, we have to get familiar with Delta-9. Researchers attempted to pin down just how Delta-9 THC worked back in the ‘90s — and they accidentally discovered the endocannabinoid system in the process.
For a more detailed explanation of the endocannabinoid system, and how Delta-8 works with it, make sure to check our guide on it here. To summarize, however, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a fundamental part of the human body, with its primary function being to modulate receptors tied to other bodily systems to maintain homeostasis.
Back in the ‘90s, with the discovery of the ECS, scientists largely defined what exactly Delta-9 THC is. Otherwise known as Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, it is the most well-known and abundant cannabinoid that exists in both hemp and marijuana plants.
Delta-9 THC gained its notoriety as being the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis products, allowing users to feel the all-too-familiar “high.” Typically, you’ll find Delta-9 THC products in states that have legalized cannabis medically and/or recreationally, requiring you to either physically walk into a dispensary or get your THC delivered for an additional fee.
What Is Delta-8 THC?
Existing as an analogue of traditional Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 THC is a minor cannabinoid. While it is also naturally produced in both marijuana and hemp plants, most Delta-8 products — such as Eighty Six vape cartridges and gummies — are extracted from hemp-derived CBD.
Delta-8 THC has exploded in popularity thanks to the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized the production of hemp within the United States. Delta-8 works as a great alternative to traditional Delta-9 THC products as it delivers a similar psychoactive high but without the added negative side effects, such as increased paranoia.
The Similarities Between Delta-8 and Delta-9
Both Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC are fundamentally psychoactive compounds. They bind to endocannabinoid receptors in the body to respond to a myriad of situations — from discomfort to temperature to psychological responses in your everyday life.
While both cannabinoids are psychoactive and have similar potential benefits, there are quite a few differences to note.
The Differences Between Delta-8 and Delta-9
The biggest difference between Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC might be the intensity of their psychoactive effects. Delta-9 THC provides a stronger high than Delta-8, but with this intensity comes the potential for negative side effects. Paranoia, worry, sweating, and rapid heart rate are experienced all too often with Delta-9.
Delta-8 THC is a whole different ball game (in a good way)! Imagine the euphoric high of traditional weed products without the brain fog — the feeling of being stoned without forgetting what you were about to stay. Delta-8 THC users report feeling focused and better able to concentrate while enjoying a mellow, manageable chill. Essentially, Delta-8 is the better cannabis. And best of all, it comes from hemp, making it legal!
Our Delta-8 cartridges, for example, offer concentrated Delta-8 THC distillate derived from hemp. We extract Delta-8 from mass quantities of hemp and filter all other THC, so it doesn’t exceed the 0.3% Delta-9 THC mandate from the 2018 Farm Bill. This leaves a flavorful Delta-8 distillate that’s free of Delta-9 and made from hemp cultivated in the US, which provides a powerful and pleasing punch that has people going nuts!
There’s Something for Everyone
Everyone is different, so Delta-8 THC may affect you in different ways. However, while the experience may differ, there are some notable similarities we’ve seen between all the users so far. A lot of factors come into play, especially if it’s your first experience with a cannabis product.
First-Time Users
Whether you’re new to Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC entirely or branching out from your regular cannabis products, first-time users may have a wholly different experience than others. Even if you’ve tried CBD in the past, this is a completely different type of cannabinoid. The experience of being high is more intense than anything CBD has to offer.
Experienced Cannabis Users
Those that are more familiar with bud don’t have as much to worry about as the first-timers. If you’ve built up a tolerance, it may not hit you as hard, but cannabis smokers all around will note the similarities between your traditional cannabis and Delta-8.
Acting as a less potent version of Delta-9, Delta-8 THC serves as a perfect option for smokers who are looking for something more mellow. Maybe weed is a little too intense for you but you still enjoy the idea of getting high. Get a more relaxing, uplifting high with Delta-8 instead!
Feel the Difference with Delta-8
Expect to feel more active or chill with Delta-8 THC! Our premium cartridges feature a variety of terpenes and other natural flavors to improve the taste and increase the chance of the entourage effect taking hold. Feel the difference between Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC when you try our selection today!
