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 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.

It's important to note that weed and Delta-8 "come" from the same species - cannabis. This fascinating plant produces over 100 cannabinoids, with Delta-9 THC and CBD being the most prominent in both abundance and popularity. Delta-9 THC is the main psychoactive compound associated with the high one may experience from marijuana (also called weed or pot), but all cannabinoids are also found in legal hemp. 

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 still 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 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.

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, say, a Delta-8 gummy, you are consuming it in an isolated form.

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. 

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 feeling of euphoria with an uplifting and relaxing bodily sensation. 

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 lower potency, wider accessibility, and euphoric effects have made it a beloved choice among many cannassuers.

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.