Everyone in the cannabis community has been talking about a certain cannabinoid, delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta 8 or D8 THC). However, there is another cannabinoid that is far more famous, causing some confusion. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (D9 THC) sounds like D8 THC. Many people wonder how they are different and the same. Titan Botanicals is all about education and wanted to discuss this with you. So you know what you’re getting into when you try Delta 8. Let’s go.
Table of Contents
What unites Delta 8 and Delta 9?
Let’s start with the similarities between these two.
First, both Delta 9 and Delta 8 are cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Let’s define a cannabinoid for those who don’t know. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found only in marijuana plants. They are amazing because they can do things no other compound can. They can interact with the ECS (ECS). This is a group of human receptors. They help regulate your body’s reactions and functions, such as appetite and mood. Cannabinoids can affect these processes by interacting with the ECS. So D8 THC and Delta 9 THC can both affect these processes. Let’s look at some of their effects.
These two cannabinoids appear to share a few potential effects. This isn’t surprising given their shared base, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Similar effects include the ability to help with the pain. This is a well-studied area with D9 THC. As a result, studies like this one exist. The researchers found that D9 THC has a lot of potentials to help with neuropathic pain in the study linked. There aren’t as many studies on Delta 8 in pain, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any. For example, this study examined D8 THC’s effect on corneal pain in mice. The researchers concluded that it may help reduce pain and inflammation, indicating great potential for this cannabinoid.
Delta 8 and Delta 9 share more similarities than differences.
What makes them unique?
Now we must examine how these two differ.
Let’s start with one of their most notable differences, euphoria. They both cause euphoria, but the feelings differ slightly. Delta 9 interacts tightly with the ECS receptors. This produces the typical cannabis high/euphoria. Delta 8 binds to receptors, but not as strongly as D9 THC. This slight difference in hold tightness is enough to reduce the euphoria caused by D8 THC. Stronger, but more bodily. This is because they are built differently. This model of Delta 9 and this model of Delta 8 show the differences in construction. As you can see, each of these cannabinoids has a unique double bond. Delta 8 can’t bind to ECS receptors in the same way.
Their legal statuses are also distinct. This is where many people get confused. Because D8 THC and Delta 9 are so similar, it’s hard to tell which is legal. So, let’s discuss. First, D9 THC is a narcotic. It doesn’t matter what type of cannabis plant it is; it is federally illegal. But many states have legalized marijuana (a variation of cannabis), so Delta 9 is legal.
Technically, Delta 8 is unique. In 2018, the federal government legalized hemp and all of its cannabinoids. Also D8 THC. While D9 THC is found in hemp, it is still a schedule one drug and therefore illegal. Just because hemp is federally legal doesn’t mean it’s legal where you live. Each state can enact its own hemp and D8 THC laws. These laws can also vary by county and city. So, before buying any Delta 8, check your local cannabis laws. Also, laws change. In your state, hemp and/or D8 THC are currently illegal, but that won’t last.
Comparing these two cannabinoids is as simple as deciding which one you prefer. Delta 9 is a more classic THC, providing a more intense euphoria. It’s probably illegal in your area. D8 THC, on the other hand, is less potent but may be legal where you live. So it’s effect vs. availability. If D9 THC is illegal but Delta 8 isn’t, you’ve made your choice. If both are legal, you’ll need to weigh your options and make a choice. Hopefully, reading through this has helped. Learn more about Delta 8 vs Delta 9 here.
Types of THC products
We’ve got you covered if you’ve decided on a THC type and want to know about the various THC products available. There are many products to choose from. Each has benefits and drawbacks. It can be difficult to choose the right one if you don’t know much about them. However, learning about them can be intimidating. To help you narrow down your search, we’ve broken them down into general categories.
Edibles
People prefer these products because they are simply foods and drinks infused with Delta 9 or D8 THC. Edibles are popular because they lack the distinct cannabis flavor that many THC products have. Many people enjoy the taste of hemp, but many others prefer to avoid it. Edibles are a great way. It’s also easy to track how much Delta 8 or D9 THC you’ve taken. One disadvantage is that THC effects from edibles can take up to an hour to manifest. However, edibles’ effects will last much longer than other products. So while it takes a while to get the Delta 9 or D8 THC into your system, once it does, it stays around. Delta 8 gummies are a popular edible!
Smokables
For a more traditional way to use Delta 8 or D9 THC, try smokables like blunts and vapes. There are pre-rolled joints and vape pens galore. You can also buy hemp and marijuana flowers to roll your own joints if you prefer. Smokables are loved because they are simple to use and the effects start working quickly. This is because THC does not have to be digested and passed through your stomach. It’s in your system once you inhale it. The only drawback is that the effects do not last as long as other products. Unlike edibles, which stay in your system for a long time after just one, you have to keep taking hits from the blunt or vape.
Oils
Oils and tinctures are a good choice if you want some flexibility and versatility in your product. They contain only THC extract (Delta 9 or D8), a carrier oil, and possibly another essential oil. They’re great because they’re versatile. One of the most common is straight from the dropper in the bottle. So you just let the oil fall into your mouth, wait a few seconds, and swallow. THC absorbs first through the thin skin in your mouth, then in your stomach.
This is a great way to get Delta 8 or D9 THC because it works faster than edibles and lasts longer than smoking. However, there are other ways to use oils. You can cook with them to make an edible. Smokeable oils It’s also topical. If you’re unsure how to use THC, an oil may be the best option!
Topicals
This is one of the rarest Delta 9 and D8 THC products. Topicals include lotions, creams, balms, and salves. The reason these aren’t as common is that rubbing THC (D8 or D9) into your skin won’t get it into your bloodstream. That you don’t get the euphoria that other products give you.
These products do have some appeal. However, THC can be absorbed through the pores. So it may still be able to provide those pain-relieving effects.
If you’re still undecided about which Delta 8 or Delta 9 product to try, we recommend experimenting with oils (since they can be used in so many ways). You could also try out a few products to find the best fit for your needs. Remember that these cannabinoids affect people differently. Just because someone you know had a certain effect from D9 THC or D8 THC doesn’t mean you will, or that they will have all the same effects.
Finally, if you’ve learned enough about THC and want to try some Delta 8, look no further. On the Titan Botanicals website, you can choose from a variety of Delta 8 THC products. We have everything from the simple (like whole hemp flowers) to the complex (like green apple Delta 8 gummies). So, if you’re over 21 and live in a state we ship to, start shopping here. You can also contact us here if you have any questions about D8 THC. For more information, please visit our contact page.
