If you have any interest in cannabis, it is important to understand the difference between Delta-8 and CBD. How are they alike? How do they differ? In this guide, we will explore their similarities and differences to help you better understand what will best meet your needs.
What Is Delta-8 THC?
According to the National Cancer Institute, delta-8-THC can be defined as:
“An analogue of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) with antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. [Delta-8-THC] binds to the cannabinoid G-protein coupled receptor CB1, located in the central nervous system…This agent exhibits a lower psychotropic potency than [delta-9-THC], the primary form of THC found in cannabis.”
Put simply, Delta-8 is considered to be a minor cannabinoid that is a weaker version of THC (commonly known as Delta-9). It can be found in cannabis plants but only in low concentrations (lower than 0.1%). Since its concentration from hemp flowers is limited, other manufacturers resort to human-made methods to produce Delta-8.
The preparation of Delta-8 can be formed through the oxidation of its more potent derivative, Delta-9 THC. The compounds of THC are isolated, and its products will then turn into Delta-8.
Similar to THC, Delta-8 has psychoactive effects on the brain and studies have shown that it can be beneficial for anxiety, depression, pain, and even help with appetite.
What is CBD?
CBD is derived directly from the Hemp plant, which contains much higher levels of CBD than a Marijuana plant would. Like all phytocannabinoids, CBD works by directly and indirectly stimulating your Endocannabinoid System (ECS). CBD alone has no psychoactive effects – meaning it will not cause a “high,” but it is well known for its calming, soothing effects that are often experienced as relaxing and beneficial for mitigating pain.
Using CBD has been proven to aid in pain management, help with anxiety relief, and even boost your immune system. Further research on potential health benefits of CBD is ongoing, and while there is still so much to learn, the therapeutic uses for CBD are undeniable.
CBD vs. Delta-8 THC
Though the chemical properties of CBD and Delta-8 are similar, they differ a lot. The main difference between CBD and Delta-8 is the psychoactive effects. Beyond that, here are the differences between CBD and Delta-8:
- Euphoric Effects: CBD will not make you high since it binds lightly to the neurotransmitters in the body’s endocannabinoid system. However, Delta-8 will have a euphoric effect because it will have a stronger bond with the CB-1 neurotransmitters, and it will react differently.
- Benefits: CBD induces sleep, relaxation, stimulate appetite, manage anxiety, reduce stress, lessen insomnia, improve memory, and pain relief. Delta-8 has similar health benefits as CBD, except that Delta-8 produces the euphoric feeling.
- Legality: CBD and all other byproducts of industrial hemp are legal nationwide. It is protected under the federal law called the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018. Delta-8 is federally legal as long as the THC content is less than 0.3% and naturally derived from the hemp plant. If Delta-8 is derived from the marijuana plant and has 0.3% THC concentration, it will now be considered a controlled substance.
- Accessibility: CBD is more accessible for consumers to buy than Delta-8. This is because CBD has been on the market for a longer period and more people are familiar with it. Delta-8 products are limited compared to CBD, but are still available.
If you are looking for the benefits of THC but don’t want the anxiety or paranoia that comes with it, Delta 8 THC might be right for you. Shop both high-quality CBD and Delta-8 THC at Mindful Medicinal.