Delta 8. The new THC that has been taking the market by storm. But you may be wondering: What is Delta-8 THC? And how does it differ from Delta-9? In this post, we explain the core differences.
First, let’s start with the basics.
What Do I Need to Know About THC?
THC is an acronym for Tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is one of the cannabinoids found in hemp, and is the main psychoactive element. CBD is another predominant cannabinoid.
When most people think of hemp, or weed, you tend to think of the “head high” associated with it. That’s because of how THC interacts with your endocannabinoid system. If you want to learn more about the science, check out this link.
What is THC and Why Does it Make Me Feel High?
Our body is made up of different receptors hidden in the endocannabinoid system. This complex system is responsible for balancing our body and state of mind. It’s in charge of functions such as mood, pain, inflammation, appetite, and even our sex drive. THC binds to the receptors CB1 and CB2 in the endocannabinoid system.
These receptors are located in our nervous systems. The CB1 receptor is known to create “bliss” and euphoric mood changes, whilst CB2 helps to relax the body and doesn’t impair cognition.
The “head high” you’re thinking about when you smoke weed is from Delta-9 THC, however, there’s also another kind of tetrahydrocannabinol called Delta-8 THC.
Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC can produce different effects. But both will still get you high.
What is Delta 9 THC
When we say THC, we are usually referring to Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or Delta-9 THC. The beneficial effects of hemp are largely due to this THC molecule, providing a “classic” high. The effects of Delta 9 THC can include elation, relaxation, laughter, as well as increased appetite and sensory awareness.
Unfortunately, the high from Delta-9-THC has also been known to cause agitation, confusion, paranoia, and anxiety.
A lot of times, people who have had a negative experience with hemp have usually consumed a higher dose of Delta-9 THC than they are ready for. And that has led them to experience panic and anxiety rather than some of the reported benefits.
It’s important to understand that not all cannabinoids found in hemp are going to have that intoxicating effect. For example, CBD is also found in the hemp plant and is non-psychoactive. It reacts with the CB2 receptors that help you to feel less stressed and removes tensions around the body. You’d feel a “body high” rather than a “head high.”
What is Delta 8 THC
Delta-8-THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is also a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in hemp. It occurs in very small concentrations, but cannabinoids extracted from hemp can be converted into Delta-8 THC. Delta 8 is derived from the hemp plant using a scientific process called isomerization. It exists in very small quantities naturally, but can be extracted.
Delta 8 THC is usually consumed as edible gummies, or with a vape cart.
The effects of Delta 8 can include:
- Reducing nausea and vomiting
- Reducing anxiety
- Improved productivity
- Natural pain relief
- A natural sleep aid
- Increase in appetite
If you want to learn more about the possible benefits of Delta 8 THC, we’ve got a complete guide just for you!
The Difference Between Delta 8 and Delta 9
Chemically, the structure of Delta-8 THC is very similar to that of Delta-9 THC. Thanks to a few electrons in different locations. The primary difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 is how the high is reported to feel. Delta 8 is widely thought to provide a much smoother experience than Delta 9 THC. Delta 8’s THC feeling comes on gradually, and because of those small chemical differences, there’s usually less risk of anxiety and paranoia.
In fact, many people have described Delta 8 as a halfway point between CBD and THC. Which makes it the ideal cannabinoid for those looking for the immediate benefits of THC, with less risk of anxiety and paranoia.
Want to know more about what Delta 8 feels like? 13 people tried it and reported their experiences here.
Delta 8 may be ideal for active people who need to stay functional, creative, and coherent, but still want the therapeutic effects of THC.
Delta 8 |
Delta 9 |
| A minor cannabinoid. Exists in trace amounts in the hemp plant and can be extracted with scientific processes | A major cannabinoid. Exists in large amounts in the hemp plant. |
| Slow onset | Rapid onset |
| Users report less anxiety and paranoia than with Delta 9 | Inappropriate dosing or inexperience can lead to feelings of anxiety, paranoia, and panic |
| Federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, access can vary state by state. | Legality varies state to state. |
| Primarily available as edibles (gummies) and vape carts | Can be smoked as a flower. But also available in a variety of forms including edibles and vapes. |
| Limited scientific research, although more is happening over time due to its mild effects | More scientific research has been completed, but more also needs to be done |
| Not available medically | Available medically |
At Moonwlkr, we extract Delta-8 THC from specially grown hemp plants, which makes our vapes and gummies federally legal.
The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, also known as The 2018 Farm Bill, states that all derivatives, isomers, and cannabinoids in hemp are legal if the final product has less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. However, Delta 8 is not available in all states. Check out where we can ship Delta 8 to here.
Ready to experience something different?
We love hearing from our customers that more and more Delta 9 users are switching to Delta 8. And because of its reported mildness, it is the ideal product for those looking to switch from CBD to a THC product.
Delta 8 may be able to help you sleep, improve your appetite, and much much more.
As with any hemp products, we also recommend you to speak with a health practitioner first if you’re taking medications, are pregnant, or have a serious health issue.
