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Delta-8 and Delta-9 cannabinoids are almost identical in structure, which is why delta-8 THC was originally discovered as a byproduct of delta-9 THC.

Delta-8 THC was first synthesized in 1940 at the University of Illinois by chemists trying to create an analog for placebo capsules that wouldn’t cause any psychoactive effect. Their experiment proved unsuccessful, but they went on to isolate delta-8 THCA (delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol acetate), hence its other name: Delta 9 THC.

Recreational users are now turning to delta-8 THC for its non-psychoactive effects and medical benefits without worrying about feeling ‘high.’ This article will break down the information you need to know about delta-8 THC vs. delta-9 to make a well-educated decision.

Delta-8 vs Delta-9

Delta-8 THC and delta-9 THC have an identical molecular structure, except for a slight difference in their atomic arrangement – specifically, where they attach to the carbon chain.

Regarding chemical composition, both cannabinoids have 21 atoms: 18 carbons, one nitrogen, and two hydrogens. Delta-9 has a saturated hydrocarbon chain with nine carbons forming its side chain.

Delta-8 has an unsaturated hydrocarbon chain with seven carbons and two double bonds forming its side chain.

These two cannabinoids also differ by how easily they are metabolized in the liver. Delta-9-THC is hydroxylated at the 11th carbon atom, creating an active metabolite (11-OH-THC), while delta-8 is not processed this way.

Additionally, delta-8-THC affects the receptors differently from delta-9-THC. Some studies suggest that both cannabinoids utilize CB1 and CB2 receptors equally, while others give more credit to delta-9 for using these receptors. Click here to learn more about it.

Because of its similarity to cannabinol (CBN), it has been assumed that delta-8 also converts into CBN; however, there is no available evidence to prove this. Other tissues may contain enzymes that can convert delta-8 into CBL or CBN.

Effects

Delta-8 and delta-9 similarly utilize both receptors, but their respective effects may differ slightly based on this.

At lower doses, delta-8 affects the CNS more than at higher doses. It begins to affect other tissues; delta-9 has been observed to affect other tissues at lower doses rather than just affecting the CNS like delta-8. This is due to anandamide content in different areas of the body. Anandamide acts as a CB1 receptor agonist in the brain but as an antagonist when found elsewhere in non-brain regions.

Delta-8-THC may be a more balanced option than delta-9 if you’re looking for a slightly less psychoactive and more cerebral experience.

Benefits

Overall, it looks like delta-8-THC might be a good choice for people who want a slightly less intense experience than what’s associated with delta-9 – the full-psychoactive version of this molecule. If you’re vaping or smoking cannabis that contains both cannabinoids, then delta-8 should be your preferred choice over delta-9 because there is no risk of getting high from its psychoactive effects.

Because of its lack of psychoactivity and greater affinity for CB2 receptors, it has been suggested as an anti-inflammatory option for those seeking relief from chronic pain or neurodegenerative diseases.

Delta-8 has also been studied as a treatment for cancer, pain management, and appetite stimulation. The results are promising, but there isn’t enough information yet to make any definitive claims about how well it works or what doses are required for optimal relief.

Although it could potentially have a greater therapeutic potential than delta-9, more research must be conducted before any claims of delta-8’s superiority over delta-9 are made.

Extraction

The extraction processes of these cannabinoids are also different. Because delta-8 is non-psychoactive and available in minimal quantities in the cannabis plant, it is typically isolated through a process known as chromatography.

In this technique, the cannabinoids are separated based on their differing affinities for a stationary phase and the mobile phase passing through it. This is usually done with high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Delta-9 THC requires chloroform or ethanol to extract its psychoactive effects, making delta-8 the better option for those concerned with potential solvent residue in their end product.

Delta-9 THC has been studied alongside CBD in preclinical trials to investigate its potential application as an antiemetic agent, but delta-8 research is limited due to its rarity compared to delta-9.

Some people may be interested in buying Delta 9 THC for medical purposes. Others may want to use it recreationally. In addition, Delta 9 THC is available for sale in some states where it is legal. The states that have currently legalized Delta 9 THC sales are Colorado, Washington, Oregon, and Alaska. People there can also purchase Delta 9 THC online from websites that are based in these states.

Practical Uses

The most practical use for delta-8 may be in vape cartridges, which can be mixed with other cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. It can also be used in foods and topical ointments where the full benefits of THC are desired, but a higher dose than what’s possible through inhalation alone is preferred.

For example, this would be an ideal way to create a topical ointment that has the benefits of THC but isn’t sticky or smelly like other cannabis-infused products can be. At stronger doses, delta-8 may begin affecting other tissues in the body, making it more useful for people with neurodegenerative diseases looking for relief.

Delta-9 is better suited for those looking to get high from smoking or eating cannabis since these routes of administration easily allow you to reach psychoactive effects.

The standardization of delta-8 into capsules and vape pens would likely benefit manufacturers because they could then sell their products without worrying about the harshness of the extraction process, allowing them to use cheaper materials while still producing high-end products.

A standardization of delta-8 into these types of cannabis products would provide consumers with more product options that will meet their needs and give them the benefits associated with THC without the potential side effects of getting high.

Conclusion

Delta-8 is generally considered less psychoactive than delta-9-THC, even though its affinity for CB2 receptors makes it an incredibly effective medicine at stronger doses. It is possible that this cannabinoid could begin affecting other cell types when used at higher doses, making it an even more versatile medicine than delta-9.

It is also much easier to extract delta-9 than delta-8 because it is available in large quantities in the cannabis plant. This allows manufacturers to use cheaper materials in their products without compromising on quality.

If you’re looking for fewer side effects and less intensity when consuming cannabis, delta-8 may be an excellent option. It can provide the same benefits as delta-9, minus some of the adverse effects of getting too high.

CBD Products

Glow Lotion Lavender & Arnica – 600 MG
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CBD Transdermal Patch 4 Pack
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The Healing Rose Silver Holiday Gift Bundle
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BoodleBody Santa Fe DIRT Moisturizer
Santa Fe DIRT contains a high level of active ingredients, including full-spectrum CBD (500mg), jojoba milk, shea butter, orchid stem cells, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and ubiquinone. DIRT soothes the skin, reducing sebum production, diminishing breakouts, and redness while addressing the free-radical damage that can cause wrinkles and inflammation.

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Dr. Love CBD Rest Program: Two-Week Sample
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Sugar Free CBD Gummies
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The Complete CBD Bath Bomb Kush Queen Collection 100mg
Save over 15% and get all 6 100mg CBD Bath Bombs in one convenient (and discounted!!) collection! Whether you are a newbie who just wants to try things out or a Kush Queen enthusiast who can’t get enough, this is the perfect set of CBD products for EVERYONE! Included: 1 of each CBD Relax, Relieve, Sleep, Love, Citrus, and Awaken Bath Bombs.

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Fitish CBD Hair Plumping Serum
Green Tea and Oleanolic Acid prevent hair loss, promote hair growth and strengthen the hair follicle. CBD and Aloe condition your scalp while plumping up the volume, thickening your roots, and softening your hair for an easy comb through.

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Joy Organics Nighttime Bundle
Experts say that restful sleep starts with a consistent nighttime routine, which is exactly what this bundle is for. It includes Melatonin + CBD Softgels, 30 Servings, and Lavender 25mg CBD Bath Bombs 4 Pack. Both of these products are made using 0.0% THC, broad-spectrum CBD oil.

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CBD Pillow
The CBD Pillow releases microdoses of CBD all night long so you can have a relaxing sleep. The pillowcase is infused with millions of microcapsules filled with the highest quality CBD for deeper sleep, relaxation, and a more refreshing morning. Purchase a new CBD-infused pillowcase every 3 to 6 months to replenish with a fresh supply of CBD. You can unzip the cover and remove any amount of fill to customize the firmness level to your individual needs.

Available at CBDpillow.com. MSRP $100/Pillow $50/Pillowcase
Ott CBD Coffee
With the Productivity Blend you can enjoy a cup of alertness, focus, and mellowness free of the caffeine jitters, anxiety, and crashes. The Relaxation Blend is for when you’re craving a late-night warm and soothing nightcap to wind your energy down. Ott uses 125-600mg of top quality hemp-derived CBD from their providers, Extracts Labs, located in Boulder, Colorado.

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Pride GummiesRX CBD Chews 750mg CBD: Full-Spectrum
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Batch CBD Gift Bundle
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High Falls Hemp NY Pomegranate CBD Gummies
Unlike others, High Falls Hemp NY owns the process from the seed in the ground to the product delivered to your hands. They craft the purest hemp-derived CBD-infused supplements, tinctures, and topical care products to promote your health and wellness on the market today. The product ingredients are sourced from our farm in High Falls, New York. Available in 100mg and 750mg.

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Yummy Gummy CBD Holiday Gift Set
This gift set is all about the gummies — a chewable, fruity, and fun way to get all the benefits of CBD. Each gummy has 10 mg of full-spectrum CBD. With 3 jars of 30 each, that’s enough to help with months of peace and calm. It also comes with a Comfort & Joy Holiday Card that includes a 2-ct. sachet of Body Comfort CBD Capsules, ready for you to personalize.

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Lavender Coffee Hemp-Infused Blends
Redefining the coffee shop experience by savoring these specially crafted lavender coffees for a focused yet relaxed start to your day. With a commitment to quality and efficacy, it starts by sourcing sustainably grown coffees from small farmholders around the globe and investing in coffees that feature gentle acidity, decadent sweetness, and rich mouthfeel. CBD/bag/360mg.

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Mana Botanics Hemp Dark Chocolate Bar
Located on the foothills of Mauna Loa Volcano, Honaunau Farm Wellness Retreat is the birthplace of Mana Artisan Botanics. This decadent dark chocolate bar is infused with 100mg of cannabinoids and Hawaiian sea salt! All ingredients used in the hemp infusions are certified organic, non-GMO, and sourced from Mana's own farm or local farms when possible. Organic hemp used is cultivated sustainably, in Colorado.

Available at ManaBotanics.com. MSRP $18/Bar