Since the passing of the Farm Bill in 2018, new cannabis products are being produced every day. From Delta 8 500mg gummies to Delta 9 vape cartridges, cannabis products are ever-evolving.
Delta 8 and Delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are two of the most popular cannabinoids in the cannabis industry. But what are the differences between them? Keep reading to find out what every cannabis user needs to know about Delta 8 vs. Delta 9.
What is THC?
Tetrahydrocannabinol, more commonly known as THC, is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. When consumed, THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, altering neurotransmitter release and causing the well-known “high” associated with marijuana. THC is not the only chemical in cannabis that affects the brain, but it is the most well-known and studied.
THC is widely considered non-addictive and does not appear to cause any long-term cognitive impairment. However, it can cause short-term impairments in memory, judgment, and coordination. THC is also known to increase heart rate and appetite. It is unclear whether THC has any long-term health effects, as research in this area is still ongoing.
THC can be divided into Delta 8 and Delta 9. These two types of THC can vary in several ways that we’ll discuss below.
Delta 8 THC has a lower potency than Delta 9 THC.
One of the main differences between these cannabinoids is that Delta 8 THC has a lower potency than Delta 9 THC. Delta 8 THC will still cause psychoactive effects the same way its more famous cousin does. However, consumers typically report that the high associated with Delta 8 THC is clearer and smoother high than with Delta 9 THC.
For some consumers, this pushes them away from Delta 8. However, for many more, it’s the main reason they tried cannabis products for the first time. So, the difference in potency can be a benefit and a disadvantage depending on what you’re looking for in a cannabis product.
Delta 9 THC is much more prevalent than Delta 8 THC.
Another significant difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 is their availability. Delta 9 THC is much more prevalent in the cannabis plant than Delta 8 THC. Delta 8 is only found in minute amounts in cannabis. As a result, it’s much more difficult to source and produce directly from the cannabis plant.
However, many cannabis product manufacturers have found a solution to the scarcity of Delta 8 THC. Cannabidiol (CBD) is another popular cannabinoid that has its own potential benefits for consumers. However, it can be converted into Delta 8 THC. As a result, companies have started doing this to produce Delta 8 products.
These cannabinoids differ in their legality.
The legality of these cannabinoids is their legalities. Delta 9 THC is still illegal on the federal level. However, many states have legalized Delta 9 for recreational and medicinal use.
On the other hand, Delta 8 THC is legal federally and in most states. However, several states and municipalities have enacted their own policies to ban Delta 8 from their locations. Overall, if you’re considering trying any cannabis product, make sure you check with your local state and municipal laws.
Choose the best cannabis products for your needs.
Now that you know the differences between these cannabinoids, you can make the best decision for your next purchase. Remember that these cannabinoids differ primarily in their potencies, availability, and legality.
Keep in mind when choosing cannabis products that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t approve cannabis products to treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Moreover, you should always consult your doctor before beginning any new supplement.
