Delta 8 THC vs CBD: Understanding the difference

 

It seems like overnight the world has been taken with the new kid on the hemp block: Delta 8 THC. Reported by researchers and users alike to be a ‘less intense’ version of the THC we’re all familiar with, Delta 9, but a more intense version of CBD with its subtle psychoactive properties.

In a previous blog post, we took a deep dive to better understand the similarities and differences between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC. To learn more about Delta 8 THC vs Delta 9 THC,click here.

 

What is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC, also known asdelta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol is one of over 100 known cannabinoids that can be found within the hemp plant. First discovered and studied in 1974 on mice in a laboratory, it was found that Delta 8 may have potentially powerful benefits and effects in the body.

Although similar to Delta-9 in many ways, Delta-8 stands out on its own for a number of reasons. A slight difference in the chemical bond of each of these cannabinoids leads to Delta 8 having much more tolerable effects with almost none of the negative side effects typically associated with Delta 9 such as paranoia or anxiety.

So how does Delta 8 THC make you feel?

Many report that Delta-8 THC has similar effects to Delta-9 THC, but much less intense psychoactive properties. In addition to almost no paranoia or anxiety, many report still being able to fully function while feeling a slight euphoric “high” feeling. Other things you can expect when ingesting or inhaling Delta 8 THC are:

• Improved mood
• An overall feeling of calm
• Improved sleep quality
• Increased sex drive
• Appetite Stimulation
• Reduced aches and pains
• Reduced nausea
• Some even experience and increase in energy and motivation

Studies have also shown the potential of Delta 8 to reduce or even kill off cancer cells within the body. More research needs to be done to better understand the full potential Delta 8 poses.

One of the main reasons Delta 8 THC is not more readily available is due to its rarity within the hemp plant. In fact, it is available in such limited amounts that the Delta 8 used in most products have been created in a laboratory by isolating Delta 8 from Delta 9.

 

What is CBD?

One of the most common Cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, most people are very familiar with CBD. Alongside THC, CBD is one of the most common compounds found in hemp. CBD, also known as cannabinoid, is well known for its calming effects on the body with no psychoactive effects.

Here are the commonly reported benefits of CBD:

• Improved sleep quality
• Reduced inflammation in the body
• Reduced anxiety
• Reduced general aches and pains
• Increased alertness and attention during the work day

Delta 8 THC vs CBD

While CBD and Delta 8 THC are both cannabinoids and do have some overlapping benefits including improved sleep and reduced anxiety, they are not all that similar. The most notable difference between the two cannabinoids was with their psychoactive effects. Simply put, Delta 8 THC does have psychoactive properties and CBD has zero.

The difference in Delta 8 vs CBD’s effects is due to the way they interact within the endocannabinoid system. While they both bind to CB1 receptors and CB2 receptors, the way they interact with them is the exact opposite. While THC initiates a response when binding to receptors as an agonist, CBD calms the receptors as an inverse agonist.

 

Psychoactive Properties

As we mentioned above, CBD has no psychoactive properties and cannot get you ‘high’. However, Delta 8 THC can. While it does have milder psychoactive properties than traditional THC, Delta 9, it definitely will produce a ‘high’ or euphoric effect for many. The “high” experience with Delta 8 is much less intense and typically does not last as long as what typically is experienced with Delta 9.

Tolerance

Most people are aware that our bodies will build up our tolerance for different substances as we use them over time. Interestingly, CBD has a reverse tolerance effect. Essentially, the more you use CBD, the less you will need. However, Delta 8 THC is much different. In fact, users of Delta 8 need to be mindful that overusing it will cause its effects to lessen. This is something that many view as a positive since it is less likely to lead to an addiction in users.

Legality

CBD was made legal in 2018 with the passing of the Farm Bill. With the passing of that bill, Delta 8 was also made legal in any state that also legalized medical and/or recreational marijuana use. While CBD has been legalized in all 50 states, Delta 8 is still considered illegal in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, Rhode Island, and Utah.

Drug Tests

CBD users can feel comfortable knowing that CBD will not show up on any drug test. However, Delta 8 users should be aware that it will most likely still show up on a drug test. While it is legal in most states, drug testing for THC does not differentiate between the two strains. Therefore, Delta 8 THC will show up on a drug test just as Delta 9 THC would.

Where to Buy Delta 8

Many carriers of CBD products are branching out and now offering Delta 8 as well. You can purchase Delta 8 THC products for salehere.

Ways to Consume Delta 8

Just like CBD and Delta 9 THC, there are many ways to consume Delta 8 including edibles, vape pens, flowers, pre-rolls and more. To purchase Delta 8, clickhere.

Coastal Hemp is excited to carry the highest quality Delta 8 THC for sale. Purchase delta 8 vape cartridges and Delta 8 gummies from CoastalHemp.co. 

 

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-vs-thc#psychoactive-components

https://www.westword.com/marijuana/delta-8-thc-wtf-is-it-and-what-can-it-do-for-you-10528117

https://potguide.com/blog/article/delta-8-thc/

https://serenetree.com/blog/delta8-thc-vs-cbd-whats-the-difference/