January 1, 2026

What is the difference between Delta-8 and Weed?

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Key Takeaways

Delta-8 is a minor cannabinoid naturally produced in all cannabis plants, with less potent psychoactive effects than Delta-9.
Weed usually refers to the illegal form of cannabis (marijuana), but Delta-8 is extracted from the legal form (hemp) to infuse products like Delta-8 gummies.
Comparing Delta-8 to weed is like comparing caffeine to coffee. Delta-8 is a single compound derived from cannabis plants, including weed, whereas cannabis is the source, but comes in legal and illegal forms.

As cannabis research continues to evolve, new cannabinoids are being discovered and gaining popularity among enthusiasts. One such compound is Delta-8 THC. With its unique properties and effects, the response to Delta-8 has varied: adoration from experienced connoisseurs seeking a novel experience, regulation from lawmakers, and most of all, confusion from the general public.

Perhaps you're curious to try Delta-8, but are among those still wondering, "How does it compare to traditional weed?" If so, you've come to the right place. Read on to find out the key distinctions between weed (marijuana) and Delta-8 THC.

Understanding The Cannabis Plant

In a nutshell, Delta-8 THC comes from cannabis, and weed is a type of cannabis.

So... what is cannabis, exactly? It's a fascinating plant that produces over 100 cannabinoids, with Delta-9 THC and CBD being the most abundant and popular. Delta-9 THC is the main compound responsible for the "high" one experiences after consuming marijuana, but it's not the only psychoactive cannabinoid.

Delta-9 THC is especially abundant in marijuana (often referred to as weed or pot), but all cannabinoids are also found in legal hemp plants.

Hemp vs. Marijuana

Marijuana (weed) and hemp are both types of cannabis plants, but the small yet crucial difference between them is their concentration of Delta-9 THC. Legal hemp contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC, while marijuana contains anything above that limit.

Interestingly, Delta-9 THC derived from hemp is still federally legal, but Delta-9 THC derived from marijuana (AKA, weed) is a Schedule 1 Substance. Same molecule, different source.

So, as long as your state laws agree, you'd be breaking no laws buying our Fudgy Delta-9 Brownies since they're made with legally compliant, hemp-derived Delta-9 THC. However, you might get into some trouble buying traditional pot brownies as only a few states have fully legalized marijuana.

Hemp's federally legal status is due to the 2018 Farm Bill, which redefined it and separated it from marijuana, including all of its derivatives, extracts, and parts.

Delta-8 vs. Weed

infographic explaining hemp vs marijuana

By now, it may be clear that comparing Delta-8 to weed is like comparing caffeine to coffee.

Delta-8 is in weed like caffeine is in coffee. Delta-8 THC is a minor cannabinoid that occurs naturally in cannabis plants (both hemp and marijuana) but in much smaller amounts than Delta-9 THC, which, as previously stated, is the primary psychoactive constituent in these plants.

Since Delta-8 occurs in such small amounts, it is usually synthesized from another natural cannabinoid like CBD to be infused into products. This doesn't necessarily mean Delta-8 is "synthetic," just that it is produced from other natural compounds. If you ate a Delta-8 gummy, you are consuming it in an isolated form.

Legal Differences

Delta-8 THC is in marijuana, but Delta-8 products are all hemp-derived, so they don’t have as many legal restrictions as marijuana in general.

Marijuana can only be legally purchased and possessed in certain states, but it cannot be shipped across state lines. Delta-8 is legal in most states, can cross state lines, and can even be bought from the comfort of your home.

That being said, if you were to smoke marijuana, you are consuming not only Delta-9 THC, but also several minor cannabinoids like CBD and, yes, even Delta-8. Since Delta-9 THC occurs at higher concentrations in marijuana, however, you are typically going to feel this major cannabinoid's effects more than anything else.

Effects of Weed vs. Delta-8

As mentioned above, Delta-8 is in weed, but it's so minor that you can't really make out its effects until it's isolated. Delta-8 THC by itself has less intense effects than the main compound of weed, Delta-9 THC, because of its chemical structure, producing a distinctly milder high. Enthusiasts describe their experience with Delta-8 as a unique euphoric feeling, with an uplifting and relaxing bodily sensation.

Because Delta-8 THC binds less strongly to the brain's CB receptors than Delta-9 THC, it exhibits “lower psychotropic potency.” In other words, those who have experienced adverse side effects when consuming weed (for example, high levels of anxiety and paranoia) will likely not see those effects when consuming Delta-8. Just remember that due to idiosyncrasies in individuals' endocannabinoid systems, cannabinoids affect everyone differently.

Delta-8's lower potency, wider accessibility, and euphoric effects have made it a beloved choice among many cannassuers.

Recap and Conclusion

At the end of the day, you should choose the product that makes the most sense for you. While marijuana does have its place (namely in states where its use is legalized and for those who qualify for medicinal marijuana programs), Delta-8 offers unique benefits.

For one, you can order it online, find it in most states, and of course, it is federally legal regardless of whether you have a medical card.

The key points to consider when making a choice between these are that:
Marijuana (weed) and hemp are two forms of the same plant species, cannabis, and differ solely in terms of their Delta-9 THC concentration.
The difference in Delta-9 THC concentration by dry weight is what then defines the legality of both hemp and marijuana.
Hemp, and its derivatives, are legal on a federal level according to the 2018 Farm Bill, while marijuana is a Schedule 1 Substance.
State regulations on both vary.
Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC are among over 100 cannabinoids that are found naturally in both marijuana and hemp.
Delta-8 THC is a minor (less abundant) cannabinoid with less potent effects, while Delta-9 is a major (more abundant) cannabinoid with more intense effects.
Delta-8 products usually contain just Delta-8, whereas Marijuana contains a high concentration of Delta-9 THC and other minor cannabinoids.
If Delta-9 or Delta-8 are derived from hemp, they are federally legal.

Until next time, happy exploring and mind your mind!

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