April 19, 2022

Delta-8 or Delta-9: Which is Stronger?

Many considerations go into buying a cannabis product- form, potency, and flavor, to name a few. The matter is only complicated by choosing between strikingly similar cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-9. One question that prospective consumers frequently ask to guide their decision is, "Delta-8 or Delta-9, which one is stronger?"

The short answer is that Delta-9 THC is generally associated with stronger psychoactive effects. But in this article, we will be breaking down the properties and strengths of Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC to explain why.

What is THC?

Before we dive into each of these popular psychoactive compounds, let’s address the elephant in the room: what exactly is THC? THC, otherwise known as “tetrahydrocannabinol,” is a compound found in both hemp and marijuana plants (broadly categorized as cannabis).

It isn’t uncommon to hear people use the terms THC and Delta-9 interchangeably, but there are actually several variants of THC, and Delta-9 is just one of them.

The four major types of THC in cannabis plants are

THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid)
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
Delta-8 THC (Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol)
Delta-9 THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol)

Now, you may be curious- do all THC variants cause the same effects? The answer is no, not at all.

Each type of THC has a unique chemical makeup, which means they bind to our cannabinoid receptors differently, yielding distinct effects.

Wait, Cannabinoid Receptors?

digital rendering of endocannabinoid receptors

To understand why and how THC causes its effects, let’s cover a little-known network in the human body known as the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). All humans and animals have an ECS, as it has an important role in regulating various internal biological functions, including:

Learning and memory
Growth and development
Regulating appetite

Thus, the body naturally produces compounds called endocannabinoids to keep the ECS functioning by continuously sending signals throughout the body. Long story short, endocannabinoids have a similar chemical structure to phytocannabinoids, which are cannabinoids that come from plants. This similarity allows these cannabis-derived compounds to interact with the two main receptors of the ECS (CB1 and CB2) when we consume them.

Some cannabinoids, like CBD, have a more passive effect because they don't bind to these receptors directly or strongly. But THC-type cannabinoids bind not only to CB2 receptors but to the CB1 receptors that are located predominantly in the central nervous system because they are so similar to anandamide, an endocannabinoid known as the "bliss molecule." When we consume these types of THC, the psychoactive molecules mimic anandamide's effects, commonly leading to euphoria.

They also have indirect effects on other areas of the ECS, sometimes leading to increased appetite or sleepiness. However, each "variant" of THC will interact with the cannabinoid receptors in a different way, which is why Delta-8 and Delta-9 have different degrees of potency. Now that we've laid the foundations of the ECS, let's explain why Delta-9 is considered stronger.

What is Delta-9 THC?

Delta-9 THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It is most commonly associated with marijuana, which has notoriously high levels of Delta-9, but it can also be derived from hemp plants. Interestingly, the only difference between hemp and marijuana is actually their concentration of Delta-9 THC!

This cannabinoid got its name from where its chemical bond is placed: on the 9th carbon chain. The location of the double bond plays a major role in how strongly Delta-9 can bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors and cause its effects. Because of its high affinity for these receptors, it is common to experience euphoria, relaxation, and even increased creativity after consuming Delta-9. Keep in mind, however, that because each person's endocannabinoid system is different, these effects will vary.

If Delta-9 were placed on a chart with Delta-8, it would likely be ranked higher for causing more intense psychoactive effects. Again, this has to do with its affinity for the receptors in our endocannabinoid system. Delta-9 has proven to be more efficient at binding to CB1 than Delta-8. It has been described as providing a deep feeling of relaxation that, depending on the serving size, consumption method, and one's tolerance, could be too much for some individuals.

Another thing to note about Delta-9 is that, as of this writing, hemp-derived Delta-9 THC products are federally legal and legal in all 50 states. However, they can only contain a 0.3% or less Delta-9 THC concentration on a dry-weight basis. So you'll typically only find this cannabinoid in edibles and drinks.

What is Delta-8 THC?

A few years ago, you probably hadn’t heard of Delta-8 THC. But today, it’s hard not to hear about it. Delta-8 THC is a naturally occurring minor cannabinoid, which means that cannabis plants contain only a small concentration of it. It was popularized with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which made hemp-derived cannabinoids legal on a federal level.

Unlike hemp-derived Delta-9, Delta-8 THC doesn’t have a concentration limit. So you'll find it in various form factors: edibles, tinctures, inhalables, you name it! The catch is that it's not legal in all 50 states, with some states banning or severely restricting it, so check your local laws to find out if it is legal near you.

But beyond legal status, Delta-8 and Delta-9 differ in terms of their effects.

Generally, Delta-8 is referred to as a “milder” version of Delta-9, meaning its effects may also include euphoria, relaxation, et cetera- but to a lesser degree. The reason for this is that Delta-8 has a lower binding affinity and psychotropic potency to CB1 receptors than Delta-9, according to well-established scientific research. Interestingly, however, its affinity for the CB2 receptors has shown to be similar to Delta-9, so their bodily effects may not be all that different.

However, it’s still psychoactive, and cannabinoids affect everyone differently, so if you've never tried Delta-8 before, start small to gauge how it will affect you.

Does Mixing Delta-8 With Delta-9 Make It Stronger?

You can mix Delta-8 and Delta-9, but it may not be the “ultimate” combination. Rather, full-spectrum CBD, or CBD and THC in select ratios, are often used together because this has been said to promote a pleasant synergy called the Entourage Effect.

This effect is believed to occur when multiple cannabinoids and terpenes work in unison, resulting in a more complete experience. However, if you’re curious about combining Delta-8 and Delta-9, make sure to check your current state laws and consult a doctor for their medical opinion.

Finding Legal Delta-8 and Delta-9 Products

Whether you decide to buy Delta-9 THC products, Delta-8 THC products, or both, you’ve come to the right place.

At Hometown Hero, we strive to bring our customers safe and effective products. To accomplish this, we use locally-grown hemp flower, strenuous quality-check processes, and have each product lab-tested at a DEA-certified lab. In our online store, we carry a large selection of Delta-8 and hemp-derived Delta-9 products, including gummies, tinctures, pills, capsules, and flower.

Each item in our store is crafted to perfection and manufactured right here in Texas. And remember, with each purchase you make, a portion of the profits will be donated to veteran charities.

Order online today to have quality cannabis products delivered to your door in a matter of days with free priority shipping on every purchase.

Conclusion: Is Delta-9 or Delta-8 Stronger?

In a comparison between Delta-8 vs Delta-9, Delta-9 comes out as the stronger psychoactive cannabinoid. But if you're choosing a product based on strength, you’ll find that adjusting the amount you take (milligrams) and consumption method will change the effects and intensity you feel. This is why we advise everyone to start small when trying new hemp products. This way, you can enjoy your experience and find your sweet spot without worrying about overdoing it.

Until next time, happy exploring, and mind your mind.

FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.