Delta 8 THC vs. Delta 9 THC – What are the Differences?

Are you curious to know what the difference is between delta 8 THC vs. delta 9 THC? If you have ever come across these two products or have heard about them, you might not have known what the difference is and which one you may want or need.

In this article, you will get all the information on delta 8 THC vs. delta 9 THC and what their differences are. Let’s get into what exactly THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is.

THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol

Tetrahydrocannabinol is more commonly referred to by its abbreviation: THC. THC is one of at least 113 cannabinoids that have been found in cannabis. It is the constituent of cannabis that is psychoactive.

THC is a compound that can be found in resin that is secreted by the glands of the marijuana plant. It is different from a common cannabinoid called CBD as the latter is non psychoactive.
THC stimulates cells in the brain and is proven to release dopamine. It has the main psychoactive property that produces a high sensation.

Delta 8 THC

Delta 8 THC is a form of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) with antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. Delta 8 THC offers a high to users and is also federally legal. It gives users a psychoactive high, but not as intense as the high one can get from marijuana. Delta 8 THC is derived from hemp. Hemp is not a controlled substance.

Most people prefer delta 8 THC because it gives users a less intense high with the reduced chances of paranoia. Most users, for this reason, find it more enjoyable.

Delta 9 THC

Delta 9 THC is a form of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It is also a cannabinoid molecule with a slightly different structure to delta 8 THC. It is found in marijuana and usually is administered through marijuana as opposed to hemp. It also produces a high when administered. It is usually used recreationally by smoking marijuana.

Although psychoactive effects last for a few hours, THC is stored in body fat and organs for up to four weeks. Although it is mostly used recreationally it also has a list of medical purposes and has FDA approval in certain forms.

Differences Between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC

Delta 8 THC is often more appealing to users, as you can get the same type of high as with the stronger delta 9 THC but not as strong. It also has reduced side effects that include: addiction, laziness, sleep issues and paranoia. Addiction is often noted as a key negative side effect of delta 9 THC that should be mentioned.

Delta 8 THC is far less likely to produce an addiction in consumers as they tend to build a “mental high”. It allows for a less risky recreational use, overall. For this reason it is also better for users who wish to use THC for purely medical purposes.

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