Difference Between Delta-8 and Delta-9

Cannabis is a naturally occurring plant that has been growing for thousands of years, and has many different applications.  This plant is full of natural cannabis compounds known as cannabinoids; which connect to receptors in our body to induce different mental and physical effects. 

Traditional Delta-9 THC, or “marijuana”, is the most well-known cannabinoid, but it is not the only powerful one.  Delta-8 THC is one of the four most common cannabinoids found within the plant, and is similar to traditional THC but with many key differences.

Chemical Difference:

Here is a quick chemistry lesson for the unscientifically inclined (including myself). “Delta” means “double”, so both Delta-8 and Delta-9 are Double Bonds.  The number signifies where that double bond is located on the atom.  That is the simple chemical difference between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC.  At a subatomic level, that small difference of the location of the bond is very significant when it comes to the way it reacts with your mind and body.

Psychoactive Difference:

Delta-8 THC can give you a psychoactive effect, but is much less potent.  It is a COMPLETELY DIFFERENT compenent to the plant and only can be slightly compared to traditional THC.  At The Dispensary – Appleton we hear first-hand positive feedback from customers ranging from all demographics about positive results from Delta-8; as it provides a little more “potency” than CBD in terms of its strength, but being “less intense” than traditional Delta-9.  It helps with a variety of ailments such as pain relief, appetite stimulation, nausea, and anxiety.

Legality Difference:

Under the 2018 Farm Bill hemp derived products are federally legal; as long as the products keep below the 0.3% Delta-9 THC limit.  The laws clearly state that Delta-9 THC is the illegal substance derived from cannabis. (Reference this article for more discussion on legality.)  This law is clear cut, and that is DELTA-9 THC is what deems a product illegal.  As always, make sure you double check your products Certificate of Analysis to ensure quality and legality of your purchase!  (Attached is a QR code that will show you our COA for our Delta-8 Products)

Last thoughts:

Although this puts Delta-8 in kind of a “grey-area”; this conversation really should only go one way (especially considering our Wisconsin Capital just decriminalized cannabis) and that is: "Lets legalize cannabis".  Let’s all cross our fingers and hope for the best!

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