Delta 8 Versus Delta 9 THC: Unveiling the Key Differences Between These Cannabinoids
Up until recently, quite a few people didn’t realize that there was more than one type of THC. The ‘THC’ that’s abundant in cannabis is called delta 9 THC and is one of 100+ cannabinoids in the plant. Not every cannabinoid in cannabis causes an intoxicating ‘high,’ but quite a few do, including delta 8 THC.
Although this cannabinoid has only recently become prominent, a legal loophole and innovative ways to create more of it have ensured it has quickly gained a loyal following. Yet, the question remains: How is D8 different from D9? This article provides the answer.
Delta 8 and Delta 9: One Key Thing Makes a BIG Difference
Delta 8 THC is a so-called “minor” cannabinoid found in the Cannabis sativa plant. It gets this designation because it’s only available in tiny quantities. By contrast, delta 9 THC is the primary intoxicating cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. It is the THC that everyone with knowledge of marijuana is familiar with due to its ability to cause a high.
What’s surprising is how similar D8 and D9 are. They share a chemical formula: C21H30O2. This means they have the same types and numbers of atoms. However, the placement of a single double bond in their molecular structures makes all the difference.
In delta 9, the double bond is on the ninth carbon atom on the molecular chain. In delta 8, this bond is on the eighth carbon atom. Despite seemingly being a small difference, it has a massive effect on how they impact us.
Delta 8 Causes a Milder High
D9’s structure results in a stronger binding affinity with cannabinoid receptors (CB1, to be precise) in the brain, leading to more potent intoxicating effects. By contrast, the placement of D8’s double bond changes its receptor affinity, which means a gentler interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and a less intense high.
The difference in structure also influences the stability of each cannabinoid. Delta 8 is more chemically stable than delta 9. As a result, exposure to light and heat makes it less likely to degrade over time. So, if you buy a product such as our delta 8 gummies, it’s expected to last longer than if you buy D9 gummies, assuming you store it as recommended.
Although no one is entirely sure, the suggestion is that delta 8 is about half as powerful as delta 9.
How Are They Created?
It’s far easier to create delta 9 THC products since the cannabinoid is so abundant in the cannabis plant. Manufacturers can use CO2 or ethanol extraction to take the D9 out of the plant. While the former option tends to provide a purer product, plenty of companies use the latter.
As far as delta 8 is concerned, there isn’t enough of it available naturally to warrant extraction. Therefore, the most common method of synthesizing it involves converting CBD derived from hemp into D8 using solvents and acids.
In both cases, products such as gummies, vape liquids, and oils are available on the market.
What About Legality?
It is perhaps this issue that has led to the growth of the delta 8 THC market over anything else. In the United States and most countries around the world, the laws surrounding D9 are clear. For instance, in the U.S., the cannabinoid is considered a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). As such, it remains federally illegal.
However, medical cannabis is legal in a majority of states, whereas recreational cannabis is also widely available. In states with medical cannabis, you need a special card to purchase any delta 9 products legally. In recreational states, you only need to be aged 21+ and bring a photo ID.
Things are a lot more complicated with delta 8. A ruling by a federal appeals court suggests that D8 products are federally legal as long as they come from hemp and have a maximum delta 9 THC content of 0.3%.
Despite this judgment, confusion remains, and a growing number of states have elected to restrict or ban the cannabinoid. Therefore, delta 8 is illegal in places that allow delta 9 even though it is technically federally legal while D9 is not! You must check the laws in your state before making a purchasing decision on either delta 8 or delta 9.
Dosage and Side Effects
Since delta 8 is approximately half as potent as delta 9, one may assume they can use twice as much. However, this isn’t wise because D8 affects everyone differently, and there’s no guarantee that you’ll tolerate it as well as you think.
When using delta 9, a low dose is often considered within the 2.5 mg to 5 mg range. You’re in moderate dosage territory up to 15 mg, and beyond that, you’re in the high dose zone. With delta 8, you should still stay in the 5 mg to 10 mg range at first to gauge its effects. A moderate dose is 20 mg to 40 mg according to most people, while at 40 mg, you can expect to feel very noticeable, strong effects.
Those who overuse delta 9 know that the adverse effects are not fun. You may experience dry mouth, dry eyes, an increased heart rate, and potentially impaired coordination. With delta 8, all of the above are possible, although users generally acknowledge that the experience is milder. I should point out that delta 8 does show up in drug tests, so bear this in mind before buying it.
Delta 8 Versus Delta 9: Know the Differences Before You Try
It’s important for you to understand the nuances between delta 8 and delta 9 before deciding which one is right for you. If you’re a relative novice, you might find that D8 is a better option because of the milder level of intoxication. More experienced cannabinoid users tend to view D9 more favorably because it provides the effects they desire.
Regardless of which one you choose, only buy from a highly rated brand like Premium Jane that subjects all products to rigorous third-party testing.
