The Difference Between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC

Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC are both cannabinoids with different effects on the body. Learn about their differences in terms of chemical structure, potency, availability, legality, and more.

The Difference Between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC

Delta-9 THC is the most commonly known cannabinoid, and it can be smoked or vaporized in the form of a flower (bud) without the need for extraction. On the other hand, almost all Delta-8 THC products are synthesized, extracted, and purified from cannabis CBD. The only chemical difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC is where a particular double bond is found in the chain of carbon atoms. Delta 8 has a double bond on the eighth carbon atom of its molecular structure; Delta 9 has a double bond on the ninth carbon atom.

THC Delta 9 has a double bond in the ninth carbon of the central ring structure, while delta 8 has this bond in the eighth carbon. The HHC simply doesn't have a double bond in any of the positions. At a given dose, THC delta 9 is more likely to cause unpleasant effects than HHC or THC delta 8 due to its greater potency. Since THC delta-9 produces a stronger euphoric effect than THC delta-8, there is a greater danger of overdose and negative side effects. The key difference between these three cannabinoids is the presence of a double bond in the chemical structure.

Delta 9 THC is the cannabinoid most marijuana users look for when they want euphoric, and that's what most people refer to when they say THC. THC Delta 8 has its double carbon bond in a different location from that of THC delta 9, and that apparently small structural difference gives it completely different pharmacological effects. HHC has two additional hydrogen atoms that completely fill the molecule's carbon ring, making it more stable than any of the varieties of THC. The Farm Bill effectively legalized Delta-8-THC through a legal vacuum that allowed its sale from hemp in areas where recreational use of cannabis was prohibited, as well as where medical marijuana required medical authorization. Researchers say it is essential to study delta-8-THC and other cannabinoids that come to the market to develop policies, regulations and practices that minimize costs, risks and harms while maximizing potential benefits. The choice between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC ultimately depends on your personal needs and desires.

Many people find THC delta 8 to be more pleasant and effective than THC delta 9 because they say it causes unwanted side effects, such as anxiety and paranoia. The research team has just published two articles based on a survey on the experiences of more than 500 participants with delta-8-THC and its comparison with cannabis. Since then, 12 states have independently decided to regulate THC delta 8 by imposing restrictions or prohibitions on its sale and possession. Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC Delta-8) and tetrahydrocannabinol delta-9 (Delta-9 THC) are both cannabinoids, but they have different effects on the body. Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol is often consumed in edibles such as gummies, but it is extremely difficult to find in today's cannabinoid markets, making it more expensive and less available than Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC.