Marijuana has become legal in some states. This is one good reason why a lot of people have shown interest in adding it to their routine.

But here’s the thing: There are different types of THC or tetrahydrocannabinol.

It’s the main active ingredient you’ll find in the cannabis plant. It’s also what causes most of the effects you experience after consuming marijuana.

Two of the most popular types of THC are the Delta-8 and Delta-9. Understanding the differences between the types can help you know which one to get for your recreational and medical needs.

About Delta-8 THC

Delta-8, in general, can produce feelings of relaxation, euphoria, and even pain relief. However, compared with Delta-9 THC, its effects are less potent and a lot milder.

Even though the effects aren’t that strong, it’s not considered a bad thing. It’s actually good news for people who don’t want to get too “high” after consuming it.

Even with less potency, Delta-8 can still cause some side effects. The list includes rapid heart rate, red eyes, anxiety, slowed reaction times, memory loss, dry mouth, and difficulty concentrating.

Delta-8 THC is found in limited amounts in hemp plants. In most cases, it’s synthetically made and that’s the reason why it’s not well regulated. There’s no way of telling what’s in the actual products marketed these days unless they’ve been submitted to third-party testing.

With no regulation, the CDC or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted an increasing number of calls about delta-8 coming from poison control centers. Reports of adverse effects are increasing as well.

Understanding Delta-9 THC

D9 THC or Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol is another type of cannabinoid that’s found in the cannabis plant. When you smoke marijuana, you’re mainly feeling the effects of this variant.

In the most basic term, Delta-9 THC is considered intoxicating. It’s actually more potent if you compare it with Delta-9

However, it’s not entirely a bad thing.

There are actually studies that reflect the health benefits of THC, particularly Delta-9. For one, it has shown promising results in people suffering from osteoporosis and other issues with bone health.

There are also studies suggesting how Delta-8 and Delta-9 can help manage the cognitive decline and the negative impacts associated with schizophrenia.

If you are thinking of adding it to your daily routine, it’s a good idea to start taking in low doses. From there, you can slowly work on taking higher doses.

It is important that you start with a low dose. This gives you a chance to understand the tolerance level of your body.

The Differences Between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC

Delta-8 has a similar formula as Delta-9. However, they have a slight difference when it comes to their molecular structure. It may be a slight change but it’s what gives them their unique differences.

Delta-9 THC naturally occurs in the cannabis plant. It’s also considered cannabis’ most abundant psychoactive ingredient.

Because it’s abundant, extracting it from the plant is easier and a lot cheaper. It doesn’t take a lot of effort to extract Delta-9 since it can be done naturally.

Delta-8, on the other hand, is deemed as a minor cannabinoid because it’s only present in the cannabis plant in small amounts. And because of that, extracting it takes more effort. In some cases, it’s produced synthetically in labs through the use of solvents.

Now, you might be wondering: Is it even safe?

The use of solvents in treating extracted CBD from hemp is actually safe. It’s considered the most natural way to produce the strain too.

Once the conversion process is done, distillation and filtration come next. And as a result, you get a pure solution.

With the said method, you get cannabinoids that are high quality and pure.

Legality

Delta-8 is considered federally legal. However, you have to keep in mind that the strain is only considered legal if it’s derived from hemp. To be sure, it’s a good idea to do your research about the laws concerning marijuana in the state you’re in.

Delta-9, on the other hand, is a bit trickier. Remember, it’s more potent than Delta-8.1

If you want to try your hands on this variant, it’s a good idea to check brands first. Look for something that’s derived from the hemp plant. It should contain 0.3% of Delta-9 THC or less.

Potency

Can Delta-8 make you high?

The answer is a definite yes. However, it’s not the same experience you’ll get from taking Delta-9.

Think about this:

The effects you’ll get from taking Delta-8 THC are much more mellow and smoother. It takes a long time to kick in, promoting clearer thoughts, relaxation, contentment, and a better view of life in the process.

Delta-8 can keep you feeling calm without mentally or physically impairing you. The effects are so mellow that most people can actually go about their day as usual. Plus, the effects take more time to fade but they won’t stay forever.

In comparison, Delta-9’s effects come rapidly. They are so intense that they can sometimes trigger anxiety, paranoia, delusions as well as audio-visual sensations because of how overwhelming it is.

In some cases, it can make it hard for a person to move. It leaves the body feeling heavy as it impairs one’s motor skills. There’s also the chance of brain fog happening, preventing you from making reasonable and proper decisions.

Dosage

With lower potency and subtler effects, you can take Delta-8 at higher doses. Usually, the recommended amount is around 10 mg to about 60 mg per dose.

Because Delta-9 is stronger and its effects are more intense, it’s a good idea to take it in moderation. 5 mg to 30 mg is a good range to start. It’s best to start with the lowest dose and get a feel of the effects before increasing your intake.

Even though it’s not possible to overdose on marijuana, you have to be mindful of the effects you’ll experience from taking more that your body can’t handle. They are generally unpleasant so don’t take too much.

Price

Because Delta-8 occurs in small amounts in the cannabis plant, it makes it harder to extract. This increases the production and processing cost. Plus, the number of brands selling Delta-8 products is limited.

If you compare prices, you’ll notice that Delta-8 products are more expensive than Delta-9 products.

This, however, doesn’t mean that it’s not possible for you to get your hands on high-quality Delta-8 products at an affordable price. Bud Vault actually has a good selection that can fit most people’s THC needs.

Which Is Better?

The answer to this question will ultimately depend on you and what you need.

If you are new to using THC products, it’s not a good idea to take Delta-9 from the get-go. Stick with Delta-8 THC products first and see the experiences and benefits you’ll get from it.

If you think you’re ready for the intense effects of Delta-9, make sure you take the product in the lowest dose possible and see your body’s reaction first before using a higher one.