There is a lot of confusion about the difference between Delta 8 vs. Delta 9 and CBD. A few similarities exist, but there are also some big differences.
With all the hype around CBD (and now Delta 8), the cannabis industry is abuzz with descriptions, claims, and yes… misinformation about the difference between Delta 8, Delta 9, and CBD. We will try to break down the major similarities and differences between each of them.
The Difference Summary
- Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC have psychoactive properties. CBD does not
- CBD and Delta 8 are made from the Hemp Plant and can be federally legal; Delta 9 is federally legal
- Delta 9’s sole focus is to give the biggest “high.”
- CBD has amazing physical properties and, by itself, is not psychoactive
The Difference Overview:
Delta 8 and Delta 9 are both a form of THC.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is a chemical found in cannabis plants that have psychoactive effects.
Delta 8 and Delta 9 can produce euphoria or paranoia, depending on the dosage and strain.
There are many different types of THC, but in this article, we will specifically focus on Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC.
CBD is a certain type of Cannabidiol. While both THC and CBD are both Cannadidoils, CBD does not have psychoactive properties like THC.
However, CBD has many other positive effects on the body. CBD products are experiencing tremendous growth due to their therapeutic effects.
CBD, THC, and all other Cannabidiols come from cannabis. While there are many types of cannabis, we 1st need to look at the major breeds, Hemp and Marijuana.
Both Hemp and Marijuana are Cannabis plants, just like a Great Dane and a Chihuahua are both canines. However, humans have bred Hemp and Marijuana for two different reasons.
First, marijuana is bred to maximize the flowers and get people high. This is where Delta 9 comes from.
Hemp is bred for hundreds of products such as paper, clothing, building materials, biofuel, food products, oils, and more. In addition, hemp is federally legal to grow, and Hemp is where both CBD and Delta 8 come from.
What is Delta 8?
Delta 8 is a type of THC that comes from the Hemp Plant. Hemp has been traditionally bred to have very low levels of THC – specifically under 0.3% THC per the 2018 Farm Bill.
These legally grown hemp plants have been bred for industrial purposes – like rope, clothing, and oils. These legally grown hemp plants also are where we get 99% of the CBD in the market.
In addition, a recent study found that Delta-8 THC can induce a less anxious or potentially paranoid high than your average THC marijuana, which is great news for the casual cannabis user.
Finally, in terms of health use, this study shows that there is potential for Delta-8 THC to be used therapeutically as an antiemetic, curbing nausea and vomiting in those suffering from such conditions.
Delta-8 THC can not only aid in a more clear-headed and less anxious high, but it can help with pain and inflammation, stimulate appetite, curb upset stomach, and overall supplement a healthier livelihood. Thus, the medical benefits of Delta-8 make it an extremely vital property of cannabis.
Delta 8 Tale of the Tape:
Produced from: Hemp Plants
Psychoactive: Yes
Naturally Occurring: Yes, in small quantities. For higher doses, the plant or flower will go through a process of extraction, isolation, and synthetization.
- Important note – Delta 8 can also be made through a chemically induced, unnatural process which makes it cheaper and less effective. Ensure you are buying your Delta 8 through a reputable company that can supply the Certificate of Analysis.
Binds to: CB1 and CBD 2 Receptors
Best Forms to Ingest Delta 8 THC?: Delta 8 Gummies, Delta 8 Vapes, Delta 8 Sleep Gummies
What is Delta 9?
Marijuana plants have been specifically bred to have higher levels of THC. As a result, Delta 9 from THC is the most “Famous” of all Cannabinoids – and deservedly so.
Delta 9 gets people into a euphoric state, gets people out of reality, and helps people forget their troubles.
But, like all compounds, Delta 9 can be overused, and when people overuse it, they can become “stoners” – just like people who use too much alcohol are “drunks.”
Delta 9 Tale of the Tape:
Produced From: Marijuana Plants
Psychoactive: Yes
Naturally Occurring: Yes
Binds to: CB2 Receptors
Best Forms to Ingest Delta 8 THC? Smoke the flowers, Edibles, Vape
What is CBD?
And finally, CBD stands for Cannabidiol, an active ingredient found in cannabis plants that do not produce psychoactive effects (meaning you won’t get high).
Like Delta 8, CBD oil is also made from hemp plants bred to have low THC levels in them – under 0.03% THC per the 2018 Farm Bill.
CBD is also nonpsychoactive because it has so little THC content that any psychotropic effects would be minimal at best if they even exist at all.
Strong Government and University clinical research underscores CBD’s potential as a treatment for a wide range of conditions and is helping people all over the world live a healthier life.
In addition, CBD has demonstrable mental benefits, and its healthy properties are currently being investigated at several academic research centers in the United States and elsewhere.
CBD Tale of the Tape:
Produced From: Hemp Plants
Psychoactive: No
Naturally Occurring: Yes
Binds to: Cb1 and CB2 Receptors
Best Forms to use CBD? Oil Tinctures, Capsules, Gummies