What Are Delta 8 and Delta 9 Products

When the 2014 Farm Bill was passed, it opened up the doors for limited cultivation and research into industrial hemp. In 2018, the Agricultural Improvement Act would then legalize the cultivation of hemp at the federal level, leaving the door wide open for rapid improvements within the space. The 2018 Farm Bill made a clear distinction between hemp, which contains less than 0.3% of delta-9 THC, and cannabis plants, plants specifically cultivated to deliver high levels of THC.

Most recently, a federal appeals court in California ruled that delta-8 THC and other cannabinoids found within hemp are legal according to the 2018 Farm Bill. Judge D. Michael Fisher wrote in the court’s unanimous decision, “This court will not substitute its policy judgment for that of Congress.”

With the road to Delta 8 and Delta 9 products legally cleared and ready for individuals to explore, there is much by way of knowledge to expound upon.

Today, we are going to explore the new legal world of Delta 8 and Delta 9 products while navigating some of the intricacies regarding cannabinoids.

What Is Delta-9 THC?

Delta 9 is the most abundant form of THC found within the cannabis sativa, making it one of the most revered and hot topics in the entire cannabis industry. Since the onset of cannabis deregulation, due in large part to the aforementioned 2018 Farm Bill, Delta 9 has grown in popularity with more and more interested audiences seeking out its potential health and wellness advantages.

So What Makes Delta-9 Different?

When we consume cannabis there is a cannabinoid within that is the primary driver of the psychogenic high. This cannabinoid, as it turns out, is Delta 9. Delta 9 sports a slightly different molecular structure than Delta 8, which we will explore below.

• Abundant Cannabinoid – Delta 9 is a robust cannabinoid that is found in abundance within the cannabis sativa plant. More available than Delta 8, Delta 9 is easier to extract and produce. 
• Powerful Psychoactive Effects – When compared to Delta 8, Delta 9 offers more potent psychoactive effects. Some argue that Delta 9 is more than twice as potent as similar Delta 8 products. With that being said, Delta 9 products should not be considered in the same tier as true cannabis products. They are closer to low-THC CBD-based products, in effect, offering pronounced relaxation and deeper sleep.
• Vague Legality – Delta 9 THC is only legal when it sports THC levels under 9.3%. Delta-8, on the other hand, is entirely legal at the Federal Level, though state-level bans have made this a harder conversation to have. If you live in a state where Delta 9 is legally available, you can head to the local dispensary of your choice to make your purchase.
• Pronounced Effects – A litany of studies has revealed that Delta 9 THC consumption can aid with feelings of relaxation and calm. When consumed alongside CBD, Delta 9 can be used as a potent relaxation supplement to regulate stress.
• Improved Appetite – Some individuals have even reported that the consumption of Delta 9 products with regularity has helped to improve their appetite. This evidence is still largely anecdotal, with conflicting reports depending on the individual.

What Is Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 is considered a more minor cannabinoid and, as such, can be more expensive during the extraction process. As Delta-9 is the most common cannabinoid found within the plant, Delta 8 THC requires much more effort to procure, extract, and supplement.

Delta 8 can be found within hemp and other forms of cannabis, though never in the quantities of its sister cannabinoid, delta-9. 

What Does Delta-8 Do?

Delta-8 may be found in smaller quantities than Delta 9, but that doesn’t mean that the cannabinoid is bereft of potential benefits. Delta 8 is said to provide a much calmer and clearer experience with a similar ‘high’ to Delta 9. Colloquially referred to as ‘Diet Weed’, Delta 8 works at a slower pace as it spreads throughout your body, leading to an overall more mellow and relaxed experience.

• Flexible Cannabinoid – Delta 8 is widely available despite state-level restrictions in varying parts of the country. Delta 8 can be inhaled through vaping or smoked as a flower. Some consumers like to ingest their Delta 8 products as an edible through the use of gummies or chocolates. 
• Calmer Effects – Where Delta 9 may leave you feeling high as a kite floating through the sky, experiences are much more relaxed for Delta 8 products. Delta 8 is a slow-moving cannabinoid that brings about a more mellow state of relaxation.   
• Widely Available – Delta 8 products are not restricted to nearly the same level as Delta 9 products. While cannabis may be illegal at a federal level, Delta 8 products can be acquired anywhere in the country except for the 15 states that have chosen to limit its availability. Colorado was the most recent state to limit or otherwise restrict access to Delta 8.

Final Thoughts and Overview

Delta 8 and Delta 9 are two cannabinoids that are only going to become more popular alongside the ongoing cannabis movement. Delta 9 is considered a classic choice with pronounced effects most similar to traditional cannabis. Delta 8 offers a limited and more relaxed experience similar to that of a traditional CBD-based product.

To find out what is right for you and your body, explore Delta 9 and Delta 8 products from a reputable supplier. Everybody has a slightly different endocannabinoid system and, as such, may receive differing effects.