Is Delta-8 The Same As THC?

Delta-8 is one of the most exciting topics in the cannabis world. Unfortunately, there are so many questions and hypotheses around it that sometimes it’s hard to differentiate between what’s actually right and what’s just a presumption not backed by any science or knowledge. And this is where trustworthy websites come in handy - and we’re pretty happy to be one of them as a reputable Delta-8 distributor in the US. 

In this article, we’ll talk about the differences between Delta-8 and the substance known as THC. Because - sorry to spoil it to you already - Delta-8 and THC, while similar, are not the same.

Table of contents

• Delta-8, Delta-9, Delta-10… Why so many Deltas all of a sudden?
• Delta-8 vs. delta-9 vs. CBD: on the chemical side
• What to expect from Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC?
• Is Delta-8 the same as THC?

Delta-8, Delta-9, Delta-10… Why so many Deltas all of a sudden?

Is THC the same as Delta 8? When people talk about the psychoactive substance contained by cannabis plants, they usually refer to it as THC. But did you know that there’s more than one type of THC? The most common one is Delta-9 THC, derived from the cannabis plant. 

Anyone who’s been in the world of vaping for some time already knows it pretty well.

Delta-8 THC, on the other hand, is a compound similar to delta-9 THC but not the same substance. Its chemical structure is a bit different, making it less potent in some areas (people usually bring that up when talking about the high it provides) and more potent in others - don’t underestimate Delta-8 THC!

And there’s more to that. 

Delta-8 vs. delta-9 vs. CBD: on the chemical side

Do you want to get a grasp of what the potential benefits of both substances are? How do they work, and what to expect after vaping or consuming them in the form of various edibles?

Firstly, let’s get through the more tedious part because - after all - it’s all about chemistry, isn’t it? Delta-8’s full name is Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol, and its chemical formula is C21H30O2. Likewise, Delta-9 is known in the scientific world as Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and its formula would go like this: C21H30O2. 

So… is Delta 8 the same as THC?

No, not necessarily.

Although they share chemical formulas, their molecular structure is slightly different. Why? The double bond on the chain of carbon atoms varies, affecting how Delta-8 and Delta-9 (even though both cannabidiols) interact with receptors in the human body.

And that’s where their names come from: Delta-8 has a double bond on the 8th carbon atom, while Delta-9 holds a double bond on the 9th. 

What to expect from Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC?

Delta-8 is known to have pain relief properties, and instead of an intense state of high, it usually provides a feeling of mild, serene relaxation. In addition, some say it boosts creativity and helps you concentrate, making you more productive. It’s also worth mentioning that its medical effects include reducing inflammation and support with easing anxiety, stress, and even insomnia.

Delta 9, on the other hand, affects CB-1 receptors in the cannabinoid system, producing substantial psychoactive effects. As a result, people who intake Delta-9 in the form of vapes or edibles may experience intense feelings of joy, be incredibly talkative, or - on the other hand - chilled and calm.

Is Delta-8 the same as THC?

No - Delta-8 is one of the forms of THC. Knowing that people usually by THC mean Delta-9 THC, the most common type derived from cannabis plants, the easiest way to show the differences is to compare these two kinds of cannabidiols. 

Lastly, let’s talk about how Delta-9 and Delta-8 are produced.

You must know that the concentration of Delta-8 THC in the cannabis or hemp plant is relatively low. It causes the need to extract Delta-8 THC from many plants or synthesize it chemically. Because of purely economic reasons, companies usually choose the second way. The complex manufacturing process involves extraction, isolation, conversion, and refining. However, in PuffXtrax, we believe it’s worth the trouble - that’s why in our Delta 8 products, you’ll find only 100% Premium Hemp Derived Delta 8 THC Oil.

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• Does Delta 8 help with anxiety and pain?