What is the difference between Delta-8 and Delta-9?

Boston Hemp Delta 8 THC vs Delta 9 THC

BOSTON, 6/15/2022 – /PRNEWSWIRE/

THC is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in both hemp and cannabis plants. People who use these cannabinoids either through smoking, vaping, or ingesting them, find that they feel an increased sense of euphoria. Many people also report an increase in appetite and an increased sense of awareness

While there may be many similarities between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, the significant differences are how they are derived and classified. Sativa cannabis plants that have Delta-9 THC levels that are below .3% are classified as hemp and are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. From these hemp plants, both low-grade Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC cannabinoids are derived and processed into a variety of products. 

The Chemical Difference Between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC

For those of you who are chemistry nerds and want to know the chemical difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9… The only difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC is a particular double bond located on the chain of carbon atoms. Delta 8 has a double bond on the eighth carbon atom in its molecular structure. Delta 9 has a double bond on the ninth carbon atom.

While some people might say there are no significant differences to be found when comparing these two compounds side by side, this slight chemical distinction can lead to cognitive changes and physical effects. Users considering whether to choose Delta 8 vs. Delta 9 choose between two decidedly different products. 

Delta 9 THC is the cannabinoid that most marijuana users are looking for when they want to get a euphoric high and is what most people refer to when they say “THC.” Delta 9 binds with CB-1 receptors in the brain and can produce strong psychoactive effects like joy, relaxation, talkativeness, and laughter

The Medicinal Benefits of Delta 8 VS Delta 9

Delta 8 THC may produce mild psychoactive effects, though they are much less impactful than Delta 9 THC. Delta 8 users may be looking for the medicinal effect of this form of THC, like pain relief, anxiety reduction, reduced inflammation, and relief from insomnia

Delta 8 is found in hemp plant material in minimal amounts and harvesting enough raw plant material to profit off the low levels of Delta 8 would take too much time, effort, and money.

Instead, growers look to processors to extract and effectively concentrate Delta 8 from the raw plant material, and fortunately for hemp producers who want to extract this compound, CBD can be converted into pure Delta 8. 

Boston Hemp Inc. continues to expand its product offerings that include both Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC. New products include flowers, vapes, tinctures, and gummies. Products are available for sale at their Hanover location and online at BostonHempInc.com. Products purchased online can be shipped anywhere in the United States.

Common Questions About Delta 8 vs 9

What’s the difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9?

Well, this entire post is dedicated to answering this question in detail, so scroll around and take it all in. However, to reiterate, the difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 is that Delta 8 is a slightly altered version of Delta 9. Delta 8 has a double bond located at the 8th carbon position, whereas Delta 9 has a double bond located at the 9th carbon position.

This difference in structure affects the psychoactive effects of the two compounds. Delta 8 THC is known to produce milder psychoactive effects than Delta 9 THC. Additionally, Delta 8 is federally legal, while Delta 9 is not.

Is Delta 8 Synthetic?

No, Delta 8 is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the hemp plant. It is an isomer of CBD and Delta 9 THC, meaning it has the same molecular formula as these two compounds, but the atoms are arranged differently. Delta 8 is produced through a process called isomerization, which converts Delta 9 THC into Delta 8 THC.

Is Delta 8 Safe?

While Delta 8 (delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol) products have gained popularity in recent years, there are some cautions to be aware of when using them. Some potential risks associated with Delta 8 include:

  1. Legal Status: While Delta 8 is derived from hemp and is considered legal under federal law, some states have banned its sale and use. It’s important to check the laws in your state before purchasing or using Delta 8 products.
  2. Quality Control: Because Delta 8 is a relatively new and unregulated market, it’s important to choose a reputable supplier and ensure that their products undergo third-party testing to verify the potency and purity.
  3. Psychoactive Effects: Delta 8 is a psychoactive compound that can cause a range of effects, including euphoria, sedation, and anxiety. These effects can vary depending on the dosage, consumption method, and individual tolerance.
  4. Drug Interactions: Delta 8 can interact with other medications, especially those that also affect the central nervous system. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using Delta 8 if you are taking any medications.
  5. Side Effects: Delta 8 can cause side effects such as dry mouth, red eyes, dizziness, and impaired coordination. These side effects can be more pronounced at higher doses.

As with any cannabis-related product, it’s important to use Delta 8 responsibly and to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Is Delta 9 Legal?

No, Delta 9 THC is not legal in the United States. It is classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, which makes it illegal to possess, produce, or distribute. However, Delta 8 THC is federally legal. It is not specifically listed in the Controlled Substances Act, so it is not subject to the same restrictions as Delta 9 THC.

Is Delta 8 Legal?

Yes, Delta 8 THC is federally legal and can be legally purchased and sold in the United States. While Delta 8 is not specifically listed in the Controlled Substances Act, it is technically a derivative of Delta 9 THC which is listed as a Schedule I substance.

As such, it is subject to certain restrictions imposed by the federal government. For example, Delta 8 must be derived from hemp plants that contain less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC in order to be considered federally legal. Additionally, some states may have additional restrictions on Delta 8 THC, so it is always best to check your local laws before purchasing or consuming Delta 8 products.

How is Delta 8 Made?

Delta 8 is typically made through a process known as isomerization, where the molecules in hemp extract are converted from Delta 9 THC to Delta 8 THC.

This process can involve the use of heat, light, or chemical catalysts to achieve the desired result. The quality of the Delta 8 THC produced depends largely on the quality of the hemp extract used and the method of isomerization.

Is HHC Stronger Than Delta 8?

It is not accurate to say that HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) is stronger than Delta 8 (delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol) in general, as the effects of these cannabinoids can vary depending on several factors such as dosage, consumption method, and individual tolerance.

HHC is a relatively new and less researched cannabinoid compared to Delta 8, which has gained popularity in the cannabis industry in recent years. Therefore, the effects of HHC are not well-understood yet.

What Can You Buy Delta 8 Products?

Here at BostonHempinc.com, we offer several types of products using Delta 8 THC. Our many customers are loving our hemp flowers, Delta 8 Gummies, waxes, resins, and much more. Browse the shop to the perfect product for your needs, and you won’t be disappointed.