Delta 8 vs. CBD: How Are They Different?

Since the
first reported use of cannabis in Asia in 500 BC, its products have been in demand for recreational purposes and their remarkable medicinal properties. To date, scientists have derived more than 100 cannabinoids, each with some unique properties. One of the most famous ones is CBD, known for its many medical uses.

An emerging cannabinoid, Delta 8 THC is also getting enthusiasts hyped up due to its similarity to delta 9 THC, making it even more sought after. At the moment, Delta 8 can be consumed through
vapes,gummies, andtinctures.

Delta 8 can sometimes be confused with CBD, but they are different cannabinoids with some similarities. Confusing, right? Don’t worry, we are about to tell you everything about delta 8 THC and CBD, highlighting their similarities and differences.

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is the second most prevalent active ingredient in cannabis (marijuana) next to THC. While CBD is an essential component of medical marijuana, it is derived directly from the hemp plant, a cousin of marijuana, or manufactured in a laboratory. One of the hundreds of components in marijuana, CBD does not cause a “high” when consumed by itself.

What is Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 is short for its scientific name, delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, or simply known as “D-8.” Delta-8 THC can cause effects similar to regular delta-9 THC (the most popular THC), but it is much less potent.

While it isn’t the most popular cannabinoid found in cannabis, it is one of the four most prominent out of more than 100 compounds that naturally occur. It also occurs in very small concentrations, which increases its value due to the intricate processes involved.

Is delta-8 the same as THC?

Delta-8 and delta-9 THC may have similar molecular structures, but they’re not exactly the same. As mentioned, delta-8 may produce milder effects than delta-9 THC itself.

Will delta-8 THC get you high?

As it is part of the THC family, delta 8 will get you high but not as potent as the more common delta 9. For those living in states where cannabis is illegal, delta-8 may be a legal way to experience some THC-like effects from cannabis.

Some consumers may even prefer cannabis products that aren’t as strong as common THC, even if they can legally obtain THC products. Delta 9 THC can cause negative effects for some, bringing on anxiety or paranoia. Delta-8 may offer a smoother, milder high as opposed to its cousin.

Where Delta-8 THC and CBD Overlap

Delta-8 is part of the other class of cannabinoids: THCs. Like CBD, it is a completely natural compound that exists in hemp and cannabis flowers. Just like CBD, Delta 8 offers a number of helpful active effects.

The most famous of the THC family is delta 9. Delta-9 is the active ingredient in cannabis responsible for the plant’s psychoactivity. It creates the intoxicating sensations by binding to another set of receptors in your body called the CB1 receptors. These receptors are specifically in charge of the “high” sensations that delta-9 generates.

We can say that delta 8 is like a fusion of CBD and Delta-9. It creates weak bonds with the CB1 receptors, and binds tightly with the CB2 receptors. The result is a unique combination of active effects that draws on sensations of both other cannabinoids.

What’s the difference between Delta-8 THC and CBD?

As mentioned, delta 8 THC is a nice blend between CBD and delta 9 THC. The main differentiator between CBD and delta 8 THC is that consumers report to “feel” delta 8 THC more after they consume it.

Depending on the method of consumption, these effects can be immediate (by vaping a cartridge or by dabbing), or within 30-45 minutes (by eating a gummy). Reported feelings include clear-headed relaxation and an uplifting body sensation. Consumers report that the effects of consuming delta 8 THC can last up to 3-4 hours.

In a way, products containing delta 8 THC are a better option for consumers than delta 9 THC because consumers of delta 9 THC frequently report negative effects from the consumption of delta 9 THC, including paranoia, cloudy thinking, “couch lock” and other effects that most people don’t willingly want to pay for.

CBD has a lot of behind-the-scenes benefits that people aren’t aware of because you can’t always feel them. You don’t immediately feel smarter or healthier when you take omega-3, for example, but that doesn’t mean it’s not working wonders for your body. Delta-8 is like that but gives your brain more immediate feedback.

D8 offers all those same benefits that CBD does and it has been shown to potentially offer neuroprotective benefits, relief from pain, nausea, inflammation, and can potentially help with appetite and stress relief with more of a psychoactive effect, but, again, far less psychoactive than THC. Because of this, D8 is the perfect option for people who crave something more than CBD but not as intense as THC.

Delta 8 vs. CBD: Final Thoughts

Delta 8 and CBD are cannabinoids both found in hemp and cannabis plants. They both offer a wide range of therapeutic effects from pain relief to neuroprotective properties. While CBD is not known to cause psychoactive effects, delta 8 actually does but milder when compared to delta 9 THC.

It may be tempting to get CBD or delta 8 right away due to their health benefits, but it is always important to consult a medical professional first before taking any cannabis product.