
How Does Delta 8 Differ from CBD
If you’ve walked into any local CBD shop or browsed CBD products online, you’ve no doubt come across Delta-8 THC. It’s also probably left you with a lot of questions, like is Delta-8 CBD? Or is Delta-8 legal if it’s THC? With the legal cannabis industry being so new, you are smart to be asking questions – and we have the answers. Especially when it comes to comparing Delta-8 vs. CBD.
At Go Green Botanicals, we are a resource for information and education on cannabidiol CBD products and its benefits for individuals who seek to take ownership of their health and wellness.
Cannabinoid Basics
Before we get all technical comparing the cannabinoids Delta-8 vs CBD, it’s important to understand at a basic level how cannabinoids work.
Just like we all have a cardiovascular system and nervous system, we also have an endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS helps our body maintain homeostasis, or “inner balance”. This includes energy, sleep, appetite, stress, pain, memory, fertility, and the list just goes on.
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds produced naturally within the body, and that interact with our endocannabinoid system (ECS) to send and receive messages, and regulate homeostasis. Cannabinoids are also produced in plants, such as cannabis and cacao (really!), and are able to work with our ECS. All cannabinoids work by interacting with endocannabinoid receptors within the body.
The Difference Between CBD and THC
CBD and THC are the most well-known cannabinoids, and also the most prolific in cannabis. They both interact with our receptors, but make us feel very different! While we are still learning about how our ECS works and the differences between the cannabinoids, it’s clear that THC offers a pronounced psychoactive effect. On the other hand, the effects of CBD are more subtle, and described as relaxing, mellow, or helpful. Of course, THC is illegal in many parts of the United States, which creates questions when it comes to Delta-8 THC. If you can buy it from CBD shops, but it‘s called THC…
Is Delta-8 CBD? Or THC?
To settle this once and for all, Delta-8 THC is a type of THC. It’s also legal. How? It all comes down to molecular structure. Delta-8 is another cannabinoid from the cannabis plant, though it occurs in very small amounts. It’s very similar to the THC that’s abundant in cannabis (also called Delta 9), but is different enough that it’s considered separate from THC, and thus is legal to buy, sell, and use.
Delta-8 acts similarly to Delta 9 THC, and can stimulate appetite, reduce nausea, and soothe pain when inhaled. The big difference, however, is the psychoactive effects are reported to be much less intense. Be careful, though – when ingested, Delta-8 edibles are processed by the body like Delta 9 THC, and can be just as intoxicating.
Choosing Delta-8 THC vs CBD
When it comes to deciding whether to use CBD vs Delta-8 THC, you should think about the effects you desire and your own personal preferences. These comparisons may help:
Feel the effects sooner: Delta-8 THC
For daily routine/continued support: CBD
Psychoactive effects: Delta-8 THC, though less than “traditional” Delta-9 THC
Won’t show up on a drug test: CBD (Delta-8 THC may show up on a drug test)
Most heavily researched: CBD
Available as tincture, edible, flower, or vape: Both
Legal: Both are federally legal, as long as the plant it originates from is classified as hemp (0.03%). Always be sure to check your own state’s regulations.
Where to Start with Delta-8 THC
Delta-8 THC is a great place to start if you are curious about how THC will affect you. Since edibles can be a pretty intense high for some people, you may want to try smoking, vaping, or using a sublingual tincture. No matter how you decide to go for it, always start slow with a small dose until you know how it affects you. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
As always, if you have questions about CBD vs Delta-8 THC or need help choosing the best product for you, the educated Go Green Botanicals staff is here to help.