Just when you think you are getting the hang of all things Mary Jane, you discover there is so much more to learn! Whether it be different weed strains, the difference between THC and CBD, or what method of marijuana consumption works best for you - the list of what you should know about weed just never stops growing. So what is with the sudden influx in popularity with the Delta THC strains? Dating back all the way to the 1960’s, Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC is a cannabinoid that can provide some health benefits more than other THC strains. So what is the difference between Delta 8 vs Delta 9 and why is this important? You’ll soon find out!
What is Delta 8?
Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, or Delta 8 THC, is a cannabis compound that occurs in both hemp and marijuana plants in small concentrated batches. Distillation makes it possible to extract Delta 8 THC and is used to relieve chronic pain and promote relaxation.
What is Delta 9?
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or Delta 9 THC, is actually what everyone refers to when speaking about THC. Delta 9 THC is the molecule to initiate the “high” feeling everyone wishes to experience when consuming THC. Delta 9 can be used as an appetite stimulant (aka the munchies), prevent nausea and decrease insomnia. Sometimes Delta 9 can be a lot since THC is fully present and the psychoactive effects are thriving, which is important to understand the difference between the two and usually used for separate reasons.
Difference between Delta 8 vs Delta 9?
The major difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 is that Delta 8 is less psychoactive than Delta 9, which makes it a nice and viable option for those that do not want to consume much THC. While both still contain THC, many use Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC as an alternative to other THC strains. It is said that Delta 8 is about half as potent as Delta 9, so if you consider Delta 8 and Delta 9 to be fraternal twins they are still very much similar and within the family but have slightly different compositions. Delta 8 is the more chill of the two that is fine staying at home to relax, while Delta 9 is the definite partier of the group and will show you a good time.
Delta 9 THC can often be more harsh when consuming, which is why Delta 8 is a popular alternative but only if you are not looking for psychoactive effects like Delta 9 delivers. While some like to compare Delta 8 to CBD, it is important to note that Delta 8 still has THC in its composition but is a lighter strain compared to other Delta 9 THC strains.
Delta 9 THC and Delta 8 THC also activate at different times which might affect your choice based on when or why you’d like to consume Delta 8 or Delta 9. Delta 9 is extremely fast-acting and oftentimes immediate, where the psychoactive effects take over and you’ll feel pretty high almost immediately after consumption. Delta 8, on the other hand, takes a lot more time to react and take effect, similar to CBD. It is suggested to take Delta 8 at least an hour before you’d like to experience effects so it can kick in, and be mindful not to take Delta 9 straight to the dome right before going out or you will be down for the count.
Want to try Delta 8 or Delta 9 and unsure which is best for you? See below and understand the differences based on the end result you’re looking for.
Delta 8 or Delta 9 for anxiety?
If you experience anxiety and looking for relief, Delta 8 will most likely be the better choice between the two, since Delta 9 has had reports of users feeling anxious and paranoid due to the full THC effect. Many note that they became “too high” which can be pretty unpleasant and not recommended. Delta 8 is far less potent than Delta 9 THC and it is suggested that users who are not wanting or needing the psychoactive effect for relief should try Delta 8 with not much THC composition but still promotes relaxation without the paranoia.
Delta 8 or Delta 9 for insomnia or relaxation?
Depending on whether you’d like to experience the “high” effect, both Delta 8 and Delta 9 can be used to promote better sleep and relaxation. Many users like Delta 9 because the complete euphoria and enhanced high will most likely knock you out, but if you are trying to go a different route or are not able to fully experience the high effects that come with Delta 9, Delta 8 is still a viable choice for promoting better sleep and relaxation.
Should I choose Delta 8 thc vs Delta 9 thc?
Bottom line, Delta 8 and Delta 9 are two options that can provide relief and relaxation based on what you are looking for but it all depends on those reasons. Delta 8 is a great choice for those that want some type of relaxation but do not want to experience the psychoactive effects and feeling high the way Delta 9 offers. Think about why you’d like to use Delta 8 or Delta 9 and based on that, there are many products to choose from to find relief. Although the former is relatively new to the market there are tons of Delta 8 products out there!
