We all know what Delta-9 THC (D9 or Δ9) is. But there is a new cannabinoid that is hitting the market by storm. That is Delta-8 THC (D8 or Δ8), the hottest thing since Delta-9 THC and arguably one of its greatest substitutes. If you have stumbled across this article wondering what this cannabinoid entails, then you have come to the right place. This guide aims to provide you with a greater understanding of D8, and how it affects you differently from D9.
Delta 8 (Δ8) VS Delta 9 (Δ9)
D8, like D9, is found in hemp and cannabis. Unlike the potent cannabis plants containing high amounts of D9, D8 is currently found in smaller amounts in both hemp and cannabis. Because of this, extracting D8 requires a different approach, often requiring chemically converting CBD or D9 concentrates into other forms of THC like D8 and even Delta 10 THC. That being said, extracting D8 directly from hemp and cannabis is still possible, but may require more expertise. Once D8 is isolated and compared to D9, a chemist may describe to you these key physical differences between D8 and D9 as depicted below.
From a molecular standpoint, there is a very minor difference between D8 and D9. From the image above, we can see that there is a double bond located on the chain of carbon atoms. Delta 8 has a double bond on the eighth carbon atom, while Delta 9 has a double bond on the ninth. Now that we understand the physical differences between these two cannabinoids, we can now dive into how they differently affect us and our endocannabinoid system.
How Does Delta 8 Affect You?
From the placement of those double bonds, D8 and D9 affect our endocannabinoid system in our bodies differently. D8 is still considered to be psychoactive, however, the effects reported from D8 have allegedly been milder when compared to D9. As a result, consumers consider D8 to be a more practical option, as D9 may be too impairing for ingesting throughout the day.
Delta 8 and Delta 9 not only contain psychoactive properties, but they both have medical properties as well, from reducing inflammation, to increasing appetite, the benefits behind THC is still being researched and discovered. Additionally, because D8 is commonly converted from CBD, it is considered a hemp derived product, allowing D8 to leap over legal hurdles into states in which D9 is outlawed. Due to its practicality and accessibility, D8 is the premiere choice for many consumers across the nation.
Has Delta 8 Become Too Accessible?
Accessibility comes with its problems, however. D8’s popularity has fueled incentive for many D8 companies to rise with the trend. Because of this influx of brands, it may be difficult for D8 consumers to understand which products are the most trustworthy.
Delta 8 by Mints
Mints Market aims to provide high quality products sourced from all natural ingredients and tested by DEA registered laboratories to provide consumers with the best products possible. Additionally, Mints Market is backed by incredible customer testimony, allowing us to continue to provide some of the most trusted products in the industry. These high quality products can be checked out at our shop.
We hope you learned more about what Delta 8 is, and how it compares to Delta 9 THC. Have we peaked your interest in trying some Delta 8? If so, check out our other article discussing how to use our pods! If you would like to learn more about D8, check out our blog!
