What is the difference between Delta-8 and Weed?

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 cannassuers 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 marijuana and Delta-8 THC.

It's important to note that weed and Delta-8 are derived from the same species - cannabis. This fascinating plant produces over 100 cannabinoids, with Delta-9 THC being the most prominent. Delta-9 THC is a psychoactive compound that is commonly associated with marijuana- in fact, the words are often used interchangeably- but it can also be found in legal hemp. 

The small yet crucial difference between marijuana and hemp is the 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 federally legal, but Delta-9 THC derived from marijuana (AKA, weed), is still a Schedule 1 Substance. 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 federal legalization is due to the 2018 Farm Bill, under which hemp was defined as a separate entity, including all of its derivatives, extracts, and parts.

Marijuana and Delta-8 THC are both derived from the cannabis plant, yes, but they have some key differences. 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 compound in cannabis. 

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" (read more on that here), just that if you ate, say, a Delta-8 gummy, you are consuming it in an isolated form.

Since Delta-8 THC products are hemp-derived, they don’t have as many legal restrictions as marijuana.

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. 

Because Delta-8 THC binds differently 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 idiosyncracies in individuals' endocannabinoid systems, cannabinoids affect everyone differently.

Generally, Delta-8 THC is used for its potentially therapeutic benefits, such as providing relief, while marijuana is used for recreational and, in some prescription-based instances, medicinal purposes.

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