With marijuana laws continuing to evolve across the United States, there are more products available than ever before. Two popular names in the cannabis space are delta-8 (D8) and delta-9 (D9). While both come from the same plant, they have unique effects on the body and mind.
This guide to delta 8 vs delta 9 explains how these compounds work, how they make you feel, and their similarities and differences. Read on to learn more about delta 8 vs 9.
What is Delta-8 and Delta-9?
Delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC are both types of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is a natural chemical found in cannabis plants that triggers the high associated with marijuana [1]. While D8 and D9 sound alike, there are some key distinctions.
Delta 9 THC is the most common form of THC. It’s found in large amounts in marijuana and is known for its potent effects. When people say THC, they usually mean delta 9.
Delta 8 THC is found in smaller amounts in the cannabis plant. Because of this, manufacturers often make delta 8 by altering CBD (cannabidiol) from hemp plants in delta 8 through a chemical process [2]. Delta 8 has much milder effects than delta 9.
Both forms of THC interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, especially with CB1 receptors in the brain [3]. This is what triggers the euphoric high. The effects differ, though, due to their different chemical structures.
Delta 9 vs Delta 8: Differences After Smoking
When you smoke or vape delta 8 or delta 9, you feel the effects quickly, typically within a few minutes. Here’s how the high and overall experience differs:
Strength of the high
- Delta 9 gives a stronger and more intense high which can be overwhelming for some people, especially if they’re not used to it.
- Delta 8 THC delivers a milder high. Delta 8 effects are more relaxing and easier to manage.
Onset of effects
- Delta 9 effects kick in almost immediately after smoking weed.
- Delta 8 works quickly, but the high might take slightly longer to kick in fully.
Anxiety and paranoia
- Delta 9 may cause anxiety or paranoia, particularly if you use too much.
- Delta 8 is much less likely to cause these effects.
Duration of effects
- A D9 THC high usually lasts 2 to 4 hours.
- The high from D8 tends to be shorter, lasting 1 to 3 hours.
Mental clarity
- Some people report that delta 9 makes them foggy and less focused.
- Delta 9 is associated with a clearer high, enabling you to think and function well.
Effects of Delta 9 THC High
Delta 9 THC is well-known for its potent effects. Here are some of the main effects of the D9 high:
- Euphoria: You may feel excited or happy. Everyday activities can seem more enjoyable.
Relaxation: Delta 9 helps relax your muscles and ease stress. This is why some people use it to help with sleep or anxiety. - Heightened senses: Colors, sounds, and tastes may seem more intense or vivid. Music and food can feel more enjoyable.
- Increased appetite: Delta 9 often causes a sudden and strong feeling of hunger that sets in after using marijuana (the munchies).
- Altered sense of time: Time may feel like it’s moving slower or faster than usual.
- Anxiety or paranoia: Higher doses of delta 9 may make you feel anxious, worried, or paranoid.
- Dry mouth and red eyes: You might get a dry mouth and red, bloodshot eyes after using D9 weed.
- Short-term memory loss: It can be hard to remember things or focus on tasks while you are high.
Effects of Delta 8 THC High
The delta 8 high is smoother and milder than the high triggered by delta 9. Here’s what to expect:
- Mild euphoria: You may feel happy or uplifted without being overly excited.
- Relaxation: D8 can calm the body and mind, helping you relax without making you feel too sleepy.
- Clear-headed high: Many people report still thinking clearly and remaining focused while using delta 8.
- Mild munchies: Although this form of THC can make you feel hungry, the munchies are not as pronounced as with delta 9.
- Less anxiety: Delta 8 is less likely to trigger anxiety or paranoia than delta 9.
- Body comfort: D8 can help relieve muscle tension and mild pain.
- Shorter duration of high: The effects of delta 8 don’t last as long as those triggered by delta 9.
D8 vs D9 Similarities
D8 and D9 share some similarities, including:
- Chemical structure: Both delta 8 and delta 9 have a similar chemical structure. The only difference is the location of one double bond [4].
- Psychoactive effects: D8 and D9 both cause a high by binding to the same CB1 receptors in the brain.
- Medical benefits: People use both forms of THC for pain relief, reducing nausea, and boosting appetite. They can also help with stress, anxiety, and sleeping problems.
- Side effects: Delta 8 and delta 9 can provoke similar side effects, including red eyes, dry mouth, dizziness, and accelerated heart rate.
- Consumption methods: You can use both types of THC in similar ways—they can be smoked, vaped, eaten in edibles, or taken as tinctures.
- Legal issues: The legality of delta 8 and delta 9 varies by state. Some states allow both, while others have strict rules or bans.
Method of Consumption
Delta 8 and delta 9 THC can be used in different ways. The method of consumption can affect the onset and duration of effects. These are the main ways in which people consume these cannabinoids:
Smoking
Smoking is one of the most common ways to use delta 8 and delta 9. People smoke dried cannabis flowers or pre-rolled joints.
- How it works: When you smoke marijuana, THC goes directly into your lungs. From there, it enters your bloodstream and travels to your brain.
- How fast it works: The effects normally start within 5 minutes and peak after 15 to 30 minutes.
- How long it lasts: The high from smoking usually lasts 1 to 3 hours.
- Pros: Fast-acting and easy to control how much you use.
- Cons: Smoking can damage your lungs and throat.
Vaping
Vaping is similar to smoking but uses a vape pen or vaporizer. Instead of burning the flower, the device heats it to create a vapor you inhale.
- How it works: Like smoking, THC enters your lungs and goes into your bloodstream.
- How fast it works: Effects start within 5 minutes.
- How long it lasts: The high usually lasts 1 to 3 hours.
- Pros: Less harmful to your lungs than smoking.
- Cons: Vaping can contain harmful chemicals.
Edibles
Edibles are foods or drinks that have THC in them, like gummies, brownies, or cookies.
- How it works: THC is absorbed through your digestive system. Your liver changes it into a stronger form before it reaches your brain.
- How fast it works: Effects start in about 30 to 90 minutes because your body needs time to digest the food.
- How long it lasts: The high can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours.
- Pros: Long-lasting effects and no harm to your lungs.
- Cons: It’s easy to take too much because the effects take a while to start.
Tinctures
Tinctures are liquid extracts that you place under your tongue using a dropper.
- How it works: The THC is absorbed through the thin skin under your tongue and enters your bloodstream quickly.
- How fast it works: Effects start within 15 to 30 minutes.
- How long it lasts: The high lasts about 2 to 4 hours.
- Pros: Easy to control the dosage and works faster than edibles.
- Cons: The taste can be bitter or unpleasant for some people.
Topicals
Topicals are creams, lotions, or balms with THC that you apply to your skin.
- How it works: THC is absorbed through the skin to help with pain or soreness.
- How fast it works: Effects can start within 15 to 60 minutes.
- How long it lasts: Relief can last 2 to 4 hours.
- Pros: Great for pain relief without the high.
- Cons: Doesn’t cause a high because THC doesn’t reach your bloodstream.
Effects
Both delta 8 and delta 9 THC affect your brain and body differently. The effects can be good or bad depending on how much you use, how often, and your body’s reaction. Here’s a closer look at the effects of each.
Delta 9 THC Effects
Delta 9 THC is known for giving a strong high.
Positive effects may include:
- Euphoria
- Relaxation
- Increased creativity
- Pain relief
- Heightened senses
Negative effects may include:
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Short-term memory loss
Delta 8 THC Effects
Delta 8 THC provides a smoother and gentler high.
Positive effects may include:
- Mild euphoria
- Relaxation
- Clear-headedness
- Pain relief
- Less anxiety
Negative effects may include:
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Drowsiness
Withdrawal
When you use delta 8 or delta 9 THC regularly, your body can get used to it. If you stop suddenly, you might go through withdrawal. Withdrawal happens because your brain has adjusted to the continuous presence of THC. Signs of withdrawal may include:
- Mood changes—feeling angry, sad, or irritable
- Dramatic mood swings
- Trouble falling asleep
- Vivid or strange dreams
- Waking up often during the night
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Sweating more than usual
- Intense cravings for THC
- Feeling less hungry or not wanting to eat
- Nervousness
- Feeling worried or unable to relax
Withdrawal symptoms usually manifest within 24 to 72 hours. They are the worst in the first week and can last up to 2 weeks. Mild symptoms may linger for a month or more.
Here’s how to streamline the THC withdrawal process:
- Stay hydrated: Drink lots of water to help flush THC from your system.
- Exercise: Moving your body helps boost your mood and reduce cravings.
- Get rest: Try to sleep regularly and give your body time to recover.
- Eat healthy: Eating balanced meals helps you feel better and gives you energy.
- Talk to someone: Sharing your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or counselor can help.
- Keep busy: Keep your mind occupied with hobbies, work, or activities you enjoy.
If withdrawal symptoms feel too hard to manage or if cravings are strong, it might be time to ask for help. Support groups, therapists, and addiction treatment programs can offer support and guidance.
Delta 8 vs Delta 9 | FAQs
Are Delta 8 and Delta 9 the same?
No, delta 8 and delta 9 are not the same. They are both forms of THC but have slight differences in their chemical structure. The differences between delta 8 vs delta 9 cause delta 9 to produce a stronger high.
Is Delta 8 or 9 stronger?
Delta 9 is stronger than delta 8. Delta 9 THC triggers a more intense high and has more powerful effects. Delta 8 delivers a smoother and milder high and it’s less likely to cause anxiety.
Is Delta 9 real weed?
Yes, delta 9 is the main form of THC found in regular weed (marijuana). It’s the psychoactive compound responsible for the high that comes from smoking weed or consuming marijuana edibles.
Is there a difference between delta 8 vs delta 9 gummies?
Yes, there is a difference between these edibles. Delta 9 gummies are usually stronger and produce more intense effects. Delta 8 gummies are associated with a gentler high and they’re less likely to cause side effects like anxiety or paranoia.
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Sources
[1] https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/cannabis-marijuana
[2] https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/5-things-know-about-delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol-delta-8-thc
[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7855189/
[4] https://www.michigan.gov/cra/resources/consumer-connection/delta-8-information
