With the recent changes made towards lifting the cannabis prohibition laws in many regions, many consumers are slowly discovering new and innovative ways to use THC. Delta-9 THC and delta-8 THC are the most popular cannabinoids in hemp and cannabis plants. Though they both contain some forms of THC that interact with the body in various ways, these two are different chemical compounds and they will give you an altogether different experience. This article seeks to compare delta-9 THC and delta-8 THC gummies and their uses in detail.
Key Takeaways
- Delta-9 THC’s potency differs from delta-8 THC, which contains slight mind-altering effects.
- Patients are known to prefer delta-8 THC more since its side effects are mild.
- Delta-8 THC is less regulated than delta-9 THC.
- In terms of quality and safety, delta-8 and delta-9 are compliant with standards, but delta-9's regulations are more lenient.
What is the Difference Between Delta-9 and Delta-8 THC?
THC is a psychoactive compound that triggers euphoria, and calmness, and even relieves pain by acting upon the endocannabinoid system in a variety of ways. There are several types of THC. However, delta-9 THC is the most popular.
What is delta-9 THC?
Delta-9 THC is the most active known ingredient of marijuana, which is absorbed in the brain in different parts and is the ingredient responsible for the psychoactive effect on the user. This is what makes you ‘high’ when you use marijuana. Most cannabis strains contain delta-9. This cannabinoid has significant effects from appetite stimulation to altered perception and relaxation.
What is delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC is not as popular. It’s a cannabinoid that some hemp customers have come to like due to the mildness of its effect. Mostly, delta-8 THC is hard to come by in full-spectrum cannabis but can be synthesized from delta-9 through isomerization. It has been reported by many users that the intake of delta-8 reduces the intensity of panic attacks that are associated with delta-9 usage.
What is the Difference Between Delta-9 Vs Delta-8 THC Gummies?
Potency and Effects
- Delta-9 THC Gummies: These gummies are mostly available in higher doses as they give ‘higher’ psychoactive effects. You can expect a very strong effect that includes enhanced sensory perception and relaxation. The relaxation, however, may be coupled with overly negative responses such as anxiety or panic, especially with users who are sensitive to THC or those who use too high of a dose.
- Delta-8 THC Gummies: In contrast, delta-8 produces less intense psychotropic reactions to users. Many people who have been using delta-8 are able to go to work or live their day-to-day lives without fear that they will have anxiety breakdowns.
Medical Benefits and Uses
Pain, to some extent, diminishes with the use of either delta-8 or delta-9 THC. Users say that pain levels can be improved with these cannabinoids, which is helpful, especially among arthritis or fibromyalgia patients.
- When the pain becomes too much, especially in cancer, delta-9 THC is often made available.
- Delta-8 THC, however, should elicit the same effect but with fewer side effects.
- Both are also effective against swellings, which may occur in joints.
Anxiety and Stress Reduction
- Delta-9 THC has a degree of efficacy in the relief of anxiety. However, for some individuals, it can have the opposite effect and cause paranoia.
- Starting from delta-8 THC, which is relatively low in the hierarchy, may be preferable for new patients.
- When you use delta-8 or delta-9 THC, there is a sense of removing unnecessary tensions and stress, and a calm, gentle feeling is often experienced.
Nausea and Appetite Stimulation
Both cannabinoids are also associated with appetite-enhancement properties.
- When going through chemotherapy treatment, delta-9 THC is commonly used by cancer patients.
- Delta-8 THC can help against nausea but is usually regarded more as an agent for appetite stimulation.
Legal Status
The legal status of delta-9 and delta-8 THC is very different in different circumstances.
- Delta-9 THC: This substance is illegal at the federal level. However, it’s legal in certain states for both medicinal and recreational use. So, do your due diligence to know the regulations in the area if you want to use delta-9 products.
- Delta-8 THC: As of the 2018 Farm Bill, delta-8 THC is considered federally legal, so long as the delta-9 THC levels do not surpass 0.3 %. However, check with your state, as different states have different laws regarding the usage of THC.
Availability and Variety
- Delta-9 THC Gummies: These gummy bears for adult use can be purchased in legal cannabis states. There is a vast variety of products to choose from, varying in different doses and flavors.
- Delta-8 THC Gummies: Over the past twenty to thirty years, delta-8THC gummies have risen in popularity. You can buy them on the internet and in brick-and-mortar dispensaries in regions that allow delta-8-THC. There are many different brands and types of these products to choose from.
Delta-8 and Delta-9 Safety Regulations and Risks
Production and Manufacturing Standards
Delta-8 THC production and other associated items are under the protection of certain safety standards:
- Quality Control: Manufacturers need to adhere to proper procedures to make safe products.
- Ingredient Transparency: Ingredient listing should not include any harmful ingredients.
- Reputable Sources: THC products should be procured from reputable companies.
Third-Party Testing and Verification
Most companies practice certain precautions concerning safety; this is why a lot of them undertake third-party lab testing. This follows the notion that some other laboratory evaluates the products. Here’s why it matters:
- Accuracy: Testing to determine the exact proportion of the THC as well as other cannabinoid agents.
- Safety: Laboratory analysis makes it possible to assess whether or not contaminating or degrading ingredients are present.
- Trust: Verified products tend to enhance consumer confidence.
Possible Toxins and Health Concerns
Patients should be educated about the following potential dangers:
- Heavy Metals: May inflict health damage when ingested.
- Pesticides: Pesticides used in agriculture may harm products.
- Mold and bacteria: Unsafe conditions can result in contamination.
It’s important to choose products that have passed all tests and are given the seal of approval. Safe hemp products should not contain any trace of these harmful substances.
Conclusion
Delta-9 THC and delta-8 THC gummies deliver varying experiences. Knowing the differences in potency, effects, legality, and availability will help you choose the best option for you. As always, moderate use of these products is advisable while also being up-to-date on the products you take.
FAQs
What are delta-8 and delta-9 THC?
Delta-8 and delta-9 are tetrahydrocannabinol strains found in cannabis plants. Delta-9 is the most studied and well-known for its intoxicating effects. Delta-8, on the other hand, may reduce the “stoned” sensation for some users.
What are the differences in the effects of delta-8 and delta-9?
Users usually feel relaxed yet happy with delta-9 due to the fact that its effects are more euphoric. With delta-8 THC, however, there should be a smaller risk of the anxious feelings that can potentially come with delta-9.
Is delta-8 THC legal?
People can use delta-8 THC in a good number of states. But such laws may differ based on the state; hence, there is a need to be careful and aware of the laws and regulations in your state before using delta-8 products.
Will I pass a drug test after I use delta-8 THC?
No. Delta-8 THC will appear in the drug test results.