There’s a chance that you’ve heard of THC, but you might not be sure what it is. THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, which gives you the sensation of feeling “high”. You may have also heard of Delta-8 THC (or Δ⁸THC). Delta-8 is a cannabinoid that’s similar to THC, but it’s less psychoactive. In other words, it won’t get you as “high” as THC will. For the difference between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC (Δ⁹THC), let’s take a closer look.
What Is Delta-9 THC?
Delta-9 THC is the active ingredient in cannabis. It is responsible for the plant’s psychoactive effects. For this reason, most people who smoke cannabis flower will try Delta 9 THC first.
Delta-9 THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and produces the “high” associated with cannabis use. The concentration of Delta-9 THC in cannabis varies depending on the strain and growing conditions. In general, Indica strains have higher concentrations of Delta-9 THC than Sativa strains.
Cannabis plants grown indoors tend to have higher concentrations of Delta-9 THC than those grown outdoors. Delta-9 THC is broken down by the liver into various metabolites, including 11-OH-THC, which is also psychoactive. These metabolites are stored in fat cells and are released into the bloodstream over time. Delta-9 THC is metabolized by the CYP450 enzyme system in the liver. Its half-life is approximately 24 hours.
What Is Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC is a chemical compound that occurs naturally in the cannabis plant. Unlike its better-known cousin, Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 THC is only present in trace amounts. However, recent advancements in cannabis extraction have made it possible to isolate and concentrate Delta-8 THC, making it a popular new product on the market.
Delta-8 THC is said to produce a similar high to Delta-9 THC, but with less intensity and paranoia. Additionally, some users report that Delta-8 THC provides a more clear-headed and focused high than Delta-9 THC. As a result, it is becoming increasingly popular as a way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis without some of the negative side effects.
The Legality of Smoking Delta-8 THC
Delta-8 is seen by some as a loophole because of its ability to produce some of marijuana’s desired effects. And while it is commonly found at smoke shops across the country, one state has already outlawed synthetic cannabis altogether.
The 2018 Farm Bill made it federally legal to grow, sell and use hemp in the United States. However, the bill specifically excluded Delta-9 THC from this definition. This has led to some confusion over the legal status of Delta-8 THC. While it is not explicitly mentioned in the Farm Bill, it is derived from hemp and therefore falls under the same legal restrictions.
This means that Delta-8 THC is federally legal in the United States as long as it comes from hemp and contains less than 0.03% Delta-9 THC. However, it is important to check your local laws before buying or using Delta-8 THC, as some states have placed additional restrictions on it.
Endnote
Now that you know the difference between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, you can make a more informed decision about which one is right for you. Keep in mind that Delta-8 is less psychoactive than Delta-9, so it may be a good choice if you’re looking for a more mellow high. It may also be a good choice if you live in an area where Delta-9 is illegal. However, be sure to check your local laws before using Delta-8 THC.
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