Have you heard of Delta 8? Well, if not…where have you been hiding all this time?
A unique chemical compound, Delta 8 provides remarkable benefits in conjunction with the subtle psychotropic effect that enthusiasts have been craving.
Unfortunately, this cannabinoid hasn’t garnered nearly as much attention as its relative Delta 9, resulting in limited studies on the compound.
Yet, despite the dearth of available research, here’s what we know about Delta 8, how it differs from CBD and how you can decide which cannabinoid is best for you!
The difference between Delta 8 and CBD
Delta 8 is chemically distinct from CBD and produces different effects. Below, we compare the two substances to give you a better idea of how they differ and what you can expect.
What is Delta 8?
While not the most common cannabinoid, Delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol (or simply Delta 8) is one of the four most significant (out of over a hundred naturally occurring) compounds found in the cannabis plant.
When people talk about THC, they are usually referring to Delta 9 THC. Although Delta 8 produces some psychoactive effects, it is less potent than Delta-9 since the chemical structures of Delta 8 and Delta 9 are close but not identical.
Delta 8 THC is an isomer, or chemical analog, of delta-9-THC. The difference is due to the location of a double bond in the carbon ring, which causes Delta 8 THC to have a lower affinity for the CB1 receptor of the brain’s endocannabinoid system.
Delta 8 delivers a clear-headed, functioning high, which some regard as a businessperson high since you can easily go about your business with a sense of calm and a shift in perspective without fear of becoming sedated or experiencing severe psychedelic effects.
Delta 8 also occurs in extremely low concentrations, which adds to its value due to the overly complicated process of extraction, isolation, conversion, and refinement.
(Though obtaining considerable amounts of Delta 8 is a laborious procedure, there are fewer complex techniques for producing Delta 8!) Overall, Delta 8 is a potent cannabinoid with plenty to offer.
Delta 8 at a glance
- Provides a mild high
- Low THC potency
- Found in small concentrations
- Higher chances of failing a drug test (THC present)
- Used recreationally and medicinally
- Binds to CB1 Receptors
What are the health benefits of Delta 8?
As already mentioned, there’s a lack of research regarding Delta 8’s impact on overall health. However, many users have reported the following benefits:
- Calming of nausea
- Boost appetite
- Aids pain relief
- Boost mental health
- Prevents vomiting during cancer treatments
What is Delta 8’s possible side effects?
Although unlikely, consuming Delta 8 could produce several side effects such as red eyes, dry mouth, increased heart rate, coordination problems, longer response times, and anxiety.
To minimize the likelihood of experiencing any adverse events, you should only buy Delta 8 products from companies that can prove their products are safe and contamination-free.
Is Delta 8 a legal substance?
Even though its legality may be confusing to some folks, Delta 8 is legal under federal law in most states. The 2018 Farm Bill, commonly known as the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, amended the legal status of hemp.
This legislation expressly specifies that all derivatives, isomers, and cannabinoids derived from hemp are permitted if the final products contain less than 0.3 percent Delta-9 THC.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a compound located in the hemp plant. Full-spectrum CBD contains minuscule amounts of THC. CBD oil is the most common form, but it’s also available as an extraction, a vapor-liquid, and an oil-based tablet. CBD goods include gummies, drinks, and cosmetic items, to name a few.
CBD at a glance
- Non-Psychoactive
- Found in the aerial components of the hemp plant (stems, flowers, and leaves)
- Lower chance of failing a drug test
- Found in high concentrations
- Often used medicinally
- Binds to CB1 Receptors
What is CBD’s possible side effects?
When taken topically or orally, CBD is generally recognized as a safe substance. When using CBD, you should be aware of some possible side effects, which are minor.
The most commonly reported CBD side effects are drowsiness, decreased appetite, gastrointestinal issues, dry mouth, nausea, and interactions with other medicines.
It is imperative to consult with your doctor to see whether CBD may interact with any existing drugs you are taking. CBD supplement users may experience nausea in very rare cases. The individual’s CBD sensitivity determines this, and the amount eaten.
What are the health benefits of CBD?
CBD offers a broad range of potential health benefits, including promoting better sleep, relieving anxiety, and helping with chronic pain.
The Verdict: Which is better—Delta 8 vs CBD?
There is no one correct answer when selecting which cannabinoid is best for you, as different situations will call for different products. Cannabinoids have diverse effects on the body and provide distinct benefits.
While some people might prefer the mild effect of CBD, Delta 8 is the ideal choice if you want the benefits of THC without the strength of Delta-9 THC (in other words, you’ll experience a euphoric high without having to cope with the often-overpowering psychoactivity of other THC products!)
Although there is still much to learn about Delta 8, progress is being made, and people are slowly becoming more acquainted with the rather remarkable cannabinoid.
It’s essential that, regardless of whether you opt for CBD or Delta 8, always purchase from a source you trust! (This is especially true in the case of unregulated substances.)
Be safe and always buy your products from a reputable retailer such as Golden Goat CBD, and start with smaller doses.
