WHAT IS DELTA-8 AND DELTA-9 THC?
WHAT IS DELTA-8 AND DELTA-9 THC?
Many people smoke marijuana or hemp because they want to feel 'high.' Consequently, cannabis sativa, another plant that nearly causes the same effect as cannabis sativa, gained popularity for its various medical and recreational purposes. If you're a cannabis consumer, you might have ideas on what THC is or have used it.
Many people confuse different types of THC and fail to know each of them accurately. If you fall among such people and are eager to know what they are, there are two types of THC that you should know. Such types of THC include and are not limited to delta-8 and delta-9 THC. This article will focus on the major difference between the duo, comparison in terms of concentration, and the method of extracting each. Moreover, one will know the products containing each THC type and their availability. Furthermore, this article will enable one to fully understand the types of THC and choose the most effective one. Peer into the article and get more pieces of information.
THC vs. CBD
If you are a regular cannabis smoker, you've undoubtedly come across the two compounds or know more about them. According to Colizzi et al. (2017), THC is a cannabis compound that causes a 'high' feeling when consumed, while CBD is a compound in the cannabis plant that has more applications and no psychoactive effects. Despite the two exhibiting varying effects, many individuals confuse the two and give up on getting the difference between them.
Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC
As mentioned, these are two types of THC different in concentration, availability, uses, and even extraction method. Learn more about a first-time user's guide to cbd oil products
Delta-8 THC
It is the minor type of THC found in cannabis sativa. Delta-8 THC is in little amount compared to delta -9; hence requires more effort to extract. It can be extracted through two methods: direct synthesis from cannabis sativa or solvent extraction. Between the two methods, one should consider delta-8, extracted through solvent extraction, since it ensures total extraction of the type that contains 0.3% of THC, the amount recommended by the FDA. Regarding the effect, delta-8 is good; since it contains the required amount of THC. Delta et al. (2019) noted that delta-8 does not cause intoxicating effects, impairing the user's state of mind and greatly changing their behavior. Many individuals find it good as it makes one calm and relaxed. It takes time for the effect to be felt; it is gradual as opposed to the other type, which has an immediate effect. In terms of availability, it is more available than delta-9. This is tied to the fact that it contains the amount of THC recommended federally; hence it can cross borders and be used by as many people as possible. Furthermore, it is legal in many states and available in various formulations like gummies, oils, or tinctures.
Delta-9 THC
Unlike delta-8, Rymanowski et al. (2014) noted that this THC is more abundant in cannabis plants. Consequently, the extraction method tends to be easier than the other type of THC. It can easily be derived from marijuana or hemp as its concentration is higher than delta-8. Additionally, the effect it has on an individual is considered more vigorous than delta-8. Bourque et al. (2021) suggested that it causes an individual to experience heightened anxiety, mental fog, and impaired motor skills. Most people complain of increased anxiety and high psychoactive feelings due to its usage. Just like delta-8, it is also available in the same products; hence one can enjoy it in different products. Since it contains a high amount of THC not recommended by the FDA, delta-9 is not legalized, and one may only use it under strict conditions. It may not be used across the states as it applies to delta-9 THC.
How To Consume THC
There are different ways to enjoy the benefits of THC, provided the forms are available in the market. The types of THC that can be obtained include oils, tinctures, gummies, edibles, and vapes. Moreover, the major types of consuming THC are topical, oral or sublingual, and smoking. Learn more about How Much CBD Oil Should One Consume?
Smoking
It involves the consumption of THC vapes where wax or shatter are allowed to melt, leaving behind vapor that one inhales and enjoys the benefits. One needs to have the recommended tools like nails or rigs, put a small amount and allow it to evaporate as the vapor is inhaled. Much is unknown about this method as it may subject one to respiratory chaos like lung damage. As a result, each person's attention is always called to let the doctor know when one needs to use such a method.
Topical Applications
This method of application applies to THC creams and lotions. Here, one must put the correct quantity of cream or lotions on the hand, allow it to melt, and carefully apply it to the affected part until the effect is felt. This method may be slow; hence not suitable for those who intend to experience immediate effect.
Oral or Sublingual Applications
It applies to THC oils and tinctures but may also be effective regarding edibles. The amount approved by the doctor is ingested or placed under the tongue, and the effects are experienced quicker if the tinctures are consumed sublingually. Tinctures have a faster effect because it is quickly absorbed by the saliva, enter the bloodstream, and cause the effect. However, this method may not be effective for first-time consumers since the compound's earthy smell, and weird taste may be felt directly, making such individuals disgusted.
How To Safely Pick THC Products
To benefit from the compound, it is advisable to choose safe products while considering the quality and standard. The following should be considered:
- Certificate of Analysis. – This indicates the purity and potency levels of the compound and the brand's authenticity. Ensure the CoA is not older than 6 months.
- Check the extraction method.
- Check the hemp source.
- Ensure the product has undergone intensive independent third-party testing.
- Read the product label and ensure the product is free from impurities and harmful substances such as vitamin E acetate.
The absence of the above indications implies that the product is probably harmful and should not be consumed.
Conclusion
Since many individuals have peered into the use of cannabis compounds, it may be possible for them to confuse them. THC is a critical cannabinoid; misusing it may cause psychoactive effects and addiction problems. It is further classified into delta-8 and delta-9 THC, with delta-9 THC being more psychoactive. Despite the duo exhibiting different concentrations, availabilities, and individual effects, many confuse them. Delta-9 is more abundant in the cannabis plant and can easily be extracted, while delta-8 is less, and the extraction method is pricey. One should consider the consumption of delta-8 since FDA recommends it. It is also advisable to consider the above ways of knowing the safe products.
References
Bourque, J., & Potvin, S. (2021). Cannabis and cognitive functioning: from acute to residual effects, randomized controlled trials to prospective designs. Frontiers in psychiatry, 919.
Colizzi, M., & Bhattacharyya, S. (2017). Does cannabis composition matter? Differential effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol on human cognition. Current Addiction Reports, 4(2), 62-74.
Delta, D., Ages, T. C. V. C., & so Inaccurate, W. A. C. (2021). CBD Oracle Lab Study Shows Some Delta-8 Products Are 7700% Over the Legal Delta-9 THC Limit We got 51 hemp-derived Delta-8 THC products tested by an independent lab and found high levels of Delta-9 THC in most of them. And that was just the beginning. Delta.
Rymanowski, M. (2014). Cannabis-Review of the issues related to the determination of the total content of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol ()-9-THC) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid ()-9-THCA-A). Problemy Kryminalistyki, 285(3), 1-22.
