As the cannabis industry continues to grow, it is no surprise if you wonder about the differences between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC. More and more people decide to use cannabis, so it is essential to understand these two cannabinoids and their effects on our bodies. In this article, we will see how Delta 8 vs Delta 9 compare by exploring their chemical structures, legal status, medical uses, and side effects.

Without further ado, let’s begin.

Delta 8 vs Delta 9 Comparison

Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC are both psychoactive cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, but they are present in different quantities and have some distinct characteristics. Delta 9 is the most well-known and prevalent psychoactive compound in cannabis. It is extracted and purified from the plant, featuring a double bond at the ninth carbon atom in its molecular chain. This structural feature contributes to its strong psychoactive effects.

Delta 8, on the other hand, is an isomer of Delta 9, meaning it has the same molecular formula but differs slightly in structure. Specifically, Delta 8 has a double bond at the eighth carbon atom, whereas, as mentioned, Delta 9 has it at the ninth carbon atom. This small difference leads to variations in their effects.

Delta 8 is generally considered less potent and provides a milder psychoactive experience compared to Delta 9. Both cannabinoids can be used in various products such as edibles, oils, and vape products. Homemade edibles can be made using a weed infusing machine to incorporate either of the cannabinoids, depending on your preference and legal restrictions. For those in states where Delta 9 is restricted, Delta 8 can be a viable alternative.

Delta 8 vs Delta 9 — Source: shutterstock.com / Photo Contributor: About time

Chemical and molecular differences

Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC are isomers of each other, meaning they have the same molecular formula but differ in their atom arrangement. Although a minor difference in the position of the double bond may seem insignificant, it affects the molecule's shape and how it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).

The ECS consists of cannabinoid receptors (mainly CB1 and CB2) found throughout the body, including in the brain, nervous and immune systems. Delta 9 THC has a higher affinity for the CB1 receptors, especially those in the brain, leading to its strong psychoactive effects. This stronger binding is due to the optimal positioning of its double bond, which fits more snugly into the CB1 receptor’s binding site.

Delta 8 THC, with its double bond on the eight carbon, binds to the CB1 receptors less efficiently, resulting in a milder psychoactive effect. The difference in receptor interaction also influences the duration and intensity of the effects, with Delta 8 being described as providing a more clear-headed experience.

Effects and potency

When it comes to Delta 8 vs Delta 9 high, both have psychoactive effects, yet they differ in potency and the nature of the experience they provide.

As the most known psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, Delta 9 causes a strong “high”. Consumers feel euphoria, increased appetite, deep relaxation, and even changed sensory perception.

Moreover, Delta 9 may cause severe hallucinations and delusions. Its effects can last for up to 12 hours. During those hours, you may feel out of control.

Delta 8 THC has a slightly different structure to Delta 9 and it is less potent. Users may feel more relaxed and focused, less anxious and less euphoric. Delta 8 is less likely to cause paranoia, making it ideal for those who want to feel the benefits of THC without the overwhelming effects.

Medical and therapeutic uses

Benefits of Delta 8 THC

Although more research is needed, some reports show that Delta 8 THC can successfully be used for medical and therapeutic purposes. Here are some of its uses:

Mood elevation – It may make you feel well and a bit euphoric, which is useful for people who suffer from anxiety and depression.
Anxiety reduction – Delta 8 may lower stress and anxiety without intense psychoactive effects.
Pain relief – Delta 8 may also offer analgesic effects, beneficial for those who suffer from chronic pain. It may alleviate pain caused by fibromyalgia, migraines, arthritis, etc.
Nausea relief – Delta 8 THC might be effective in reducing nausea. No wonder it is often used in chemotherapy patients. The antiemetic properties of Delta 8 may improve the quality of life of people who suffer from vomiting and nausea.
Increased appetite – Research suggests that even very low doses of Delta 8 THC may increase appetite and affect body weight.

Benefits of Delta 9 THC

Studies have shown certain benefits of using Delta 9 THC, and the most important ones include:

Anti-inflammatory effects – It may alleviate inflammation in conditions such as multiple sclerosis and arthritis.
Nausea and vomiting relief – Same as Delta 8, it is used to potentially help against severe nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Pain relief – Like Delta 8, this cannabinoid may help alleviate pain in chronic conditions.
Increased appetite – Delta 9 may significantly increase food intake and body weight.
Sleep improvement – Delta 9 may improve sleep quality by reducing insomnia and other sleep disorders.

Side effects and safety

Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC share some similar side effects due to their chemical similarities, but they differ in terms of intensity and safety profiles.

Delta 8 THC side effects include dry mouth, red eyes, increased appetite (which sometimes might be a benefit), and mild euphoria. Some users have reported other side effects, including confusion, dizziness, slow heart rate, fast heart rate, vomiting, shaking, hallucinations, etc.

Delta 8 products are often less regulated because they are perceived as milder alternatives to Delta 9 THC. However, some states regulate them similarly to Delta 9, leading to inconsistencies across state lines. This lack of regulations increases the risk of contamination with harmful chemicals during the conversion process from CBD, which can lead to adverse effects such as dizziness, confusion, and hallucinations.

Delta 9 has several benefits, but it also has several side effects, such as dry mouth, increased appetite, memory loss, red eyes, rapid heart rate, and slow reaction times. Rarer short-term effects include hallucinations, paranoia, panic attacks, nausea, and vomiting. Finally, there are other risks to consider:

Cannabis use disorder – At least 9% of users may develop a dependency

Mental health – THC can trigger conditions like schizophrenia and susceptible individuals

Respiratory issues – Smoking or vaping THC may lead to breathing problems

Delta 8 vs Delta 9 legality

Delta 8 and Delta 9 have different legal status in the US. Delta 9 is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under Federal Law, making it illegal in most states except where medical or recreational cannabis is legalized.

Delta 8 THC, on the other hand, has gained popularity because it is derived from hemp, which was legalized at the federal level under the 2018 Farm Bill. Yet, its legality is more complex. While Delta 8 is legal under Federal Law due to the Farm Bill, many states have moved to ban or restrict it, citing concerns over safety, potency, and lack of regulation. As a result, Delta 8 THC’s legality varies significantly by state, with some allowing its sale and use while others have banned it.

Delta 8 vs Delta 9 Legality — Source: shutterstock.com / Photo Contributor: designerx

Conclusion

Knowing how Delta 8 vs Delta 9 compare is important for several reasons, such as their psychoactive effects, health and safety, legal implications, and medical use. Learning about these differences will help you make an informed decision and it will ensure safe consumption.

Both Delta 8 and Delta 9 are cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, but Delta 8 occurs in much smaller quantities. Although these cannabinoids share a similar chemical structure, Delta 9 is known for producing a stronger “high”. In addition to promoting relaxation, both cannabinoids offer potential benefits, including pain relief, mood elevation, and anxiety reduction. They are also used to alleviate nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy patients.

However, in addition to their benefits, they also have side effects, such as dry mouth, red eyes, and increased appetite. In some cases, users might experience more serious side effects. That’s why we recommend being informed as much as possible before their consumption.

Delta 8 vs Delta 9