Every time someone discovers THC, it makes them high, and for most, it’s the best feeling they’ve ever experienced. Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC are two of the most popular topics in the cannabis industry. They’ve been creating waves in the market since the Agriculture Improvement Act or Farm Bill of 2018 was implemented, which removed hemp (a cannabis sativa plant with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC content) and its derivatives from the list of controlled substances.
Both THCs come from the hemp plant but have different effects on the body and mind. This guide explores their differences and similarities to help anyone seeking insights to make informed decisions.
What Are Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC?
THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol. Delta-8 and Delta-9 are THC variants—THC is the psychoactive ingredient in the plant that gets the user high. Both cannabinoids are legal in many American states. People use them for recreational and therapeutic purposes like pain and stress relief.
While considered safe, these compounds are not FDA-regulated and lack abundant research to claim their health benefits.
Delta-9 THC: Delta-9 is the common THC variant in cannabis plants. It is well-known for its strong euphoric effects, often described as relaxing. This feeling of relaxation comes from the substance’s euphoria, which you may know as “high”.
The human brain has cannabinoid receptors. Delta-9 THC binds more intricately to these receptors than Delta-8 THC, which makes its effects almost instantaneous and stronger. In some states where cannabis is legal, people use THC to ease symptoms like chronic pain and appetite loss.
Delta-8 THC: Delta-8, however, occurs in smaller amounts in the plant, so manufacturers use a special chemical process to create it from CBD (which is abundantly available) to make Delta-8-infused products.
Result: a milder THC with a smoother, less intense high. The effects aren’t overwhelming and do not pack the powerful high of Delta-9. It is also undetectable on drug tests, which makes it popular.
Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 – Know The Differences
Whether you smoke Delta-8 or Delta-9, your experiences will vary. Both THCs interact differently with the brain, so the effects they trigger are different.
If you’re looking for a mild high, Delta-8 THC may be perfect for you. The effects are less intense, and even though it can get you high, the feeling is more relaxing and makes it easier to stay clear-headed.
With Delta-9, the effects kick in quickly. Expect a strong head high with euphoric sensations that are intense and long-lasting. Smoking too much in a short time can have possible side effects like anxiety.
The onset and duration of the high is another difference. Delta-9 THC hits hard and fast, while Delta-8 THC kicks in gradually.
How Are Delta-8 and Delta-9 Similar?
Despite the differences, both variants have a similar chemical structure and share some similarities. They interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, helping regulate mood, pain perception, and appetite. Both THCs produce a euphoric and relaxing feeling that helps reduce stress.
Appetite boost is another similarity between Delta-8 and Delta-9. They induce hunger and can be helpful for anybody who has lost their appetite due to medical conditions.
Just like Delta-9, you can smoke, vape, eat them as edibles, or take them in oils and tinctures. Your consumption method affects how quickly you feel the effects. However, the overall experience is largely similar.
Even the side effects of these THCs can be similar—possible side effects of consuming too much in a short time can cause red eyes and dry mouth. These adverse effects are typically mild but may increase with higher doses.
THC Consumption Explained
Smoking is the most common method of taking THC. You can smoke or vape Delta-8 or Delta-9 using a joint, pipe, or vape pen. Upon consumption, THC gets into the bloodstream rapidly to initiate the effects. This faster onset time makes this consumption method popular.
Eating THC through brownies, cookies, or gummies introduces long-lasting effects, which are longer than smoking. But the effects take a while to kick in since they must undergo digestion. Seasoned enthusiasts recommend waiting up to an hour for the effects to trigger. Eating Delta-8 or Delta-9 edibles is ideal for those seeking lasting relief.
For those who don’t like smoking but want the effects faster, you can try THC oil/tincture. Using them is easy—place a few drops under the tongue and hold for a minute or two, during which the THC content is absorbed into the bloodstream. Then, you swallow the rest. Oils/tinctures deliver a quicker onset than edibles and last longer than smoking THC.
The Takeaway
Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC have differences and similarities, as both are hemp-derived cannabinoids. What you choose will depend on what kind of experience you seek. Delta-9 produces intense euphoria, while Delta-8 is milder. Seasoned users prefer the original THC over Delta-8, so the choice is yours.
Also Read – How Long Does Delta-9 Stay in Your System?