Delta 8 vs Delta 9

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or D9 THC, is regarded as the “classic” cannabinoid when most people think of the intoxicating or psychoactive effects of cannabis. Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol is an isomer of that “classic” cannabinoid and while they share some similarities, understanding their differences is important to decide which is better for you personally.

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What is Delta 8?

Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol is a cannabinoid present in the cannabis plant (usually in minor amounts) that is psychoactive. It is an isomer of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, which means that it shares a similar molecular structure. Delta 8 has been studied for it’s possible therapeutic benefits. It has been studied for its possible antiemetic, anxiety-relieving, orexigenic, pain relieving, and neuroprotective properties.

Is Delta 8 Psychoactive?

Delta 8 is a psychoactive cannabinoid, but it depends on how much is utilized and personal body chemistry that will affect the experience and reaction. Some prefer delta 8 over delta 9 because it may produce a milder and smoother experience, however many heavy cannabis users report that Delta 8 has no impact on them at all or is “too weak,” this may have a part to play in Delta 8’s more so delayed and milder range of effects. It absolutely boils down to trial and error, and discovering whether this cannabinoid feels right in your experience and needs. 

How long does Delta 8 last?

The duration of Delta 8’s effects will differ depending on method of consumption. Anecdotal data shows that vaping, dabbing, or smoking may last anywhere from 1-4hrs in total, while edibles may last anywhere from 4-6hrs or morel. The CB1 and CB2 receptors in our Endocannabinoid system bind to inhaled Delta 8 THC and due to its weaker bonding with CB1 receptors, it does not have as strong of an effect as Delta 9 THC. When ingested in edible form it is converted into a much more potent form in the liver, which will give much more prominent and longer-lasting effects. 

Does Delta 8 test positive on a drug test?

THC is detected in drug tests for delta 9. Because of its similar structure to D9, delta 8 stays in the body for a similar amount of time and will be detected by a drug test for THC. Delta 8 can show up on a drug up to 3 months after intake, it can also depend on the fat content of your body as THC is fat soluble and also how well your endocannabinoid works.

Is Delta 8 legal?

Delta 8 THC is available for purchase online and may also be found at your local head store. However, the legality of delta 8 THC is, to say the least, unclear, and depending on whether you view it at a state or federal level. Delta 8 is legal on the federal level, as long as it is derived from hemp rather than cannabis, due to the 2018 Hemp Farming Act.

Is Delta 8 safe?

Delta 8 has been described as a “an efficient new cannabinoid antiemetic in pediatric oncology” delta-8-THC, like its sibling cannabinoids, shows a lot of potentials. We can combat the stereotype of bad distillate by utilizing full panel labs that are done by 3rd party labs.

What is Delta 9?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive component of cannabis and one of 113 cannabinoids found in the plant. Although the molecular formula for THC specifies many isomers, the term THC most commonly refers to the Delta-9-THC isomer, also known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol.

How long do Delta 9 effects last?

THC may be detectable in the body for considerably longer than most other drugs (up to 20 hours after intake), despite the fact that the euphoric effects last just a few hours. THC is retained for three to four weeks in body fat and organs. THC can be detected in hair follicles after even longer lengths of time, about 90 days.

Does Delta 9 show up on a drug test?

Drug Tests are originally done to detect the levels of THC or Delta 9 THC in the body. Therefore, yes it does show up on a drug test.

How long does Delta 9 stay in your system?

Cannabis effects wear off fast, but the substance may be detectable in the body for weeks, if not months. The active components and breakdown products of cannabis can last in the system for a few hours to 90 days, depending on how frequently or how much cannabis the individual has used.

Is Delta 9 legal?

Delta 9 is responsible for the psychoactive effects experienced after consuming cannabis products, and it is banned both federally and in a large number of states, but states do have medical cannabis programs and are starting to decriminalize or lean towards legalization.

Is Delta 9 safe?

THC is a safe substance. Although becoming one of the most common psychoactive compounds in the world, there has never been a single recorded incidence of THC overdose. THC’s toxic dosage is so high that the only method to achieve it is to inject several milliliters of pure THC into the body. It is nearly difficult to get a fatal amount of THC by smoking or ingesting it.

In Summary

The decision between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC is determined solely by your own wants and preferences. While some in the cannabis world regard Delta 9 to be the “traditional” option, Delta 8 is fast gaining favor owing to its gentler effects and legal status. It can be utilized in edibles, topicals, and more just like regular Delta 9, but the difference in edibles translates to usually a less anxious experience. To read more about the difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 edibles, check out our other blog post.