If you love what THC does to your body, you might want to try other weed variants that cater specifically to the type of high you want. Two very well-preferred THC variants may be chemically similar in structure, but there’s a difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 and their type of buzz.

Some Delta 8 and Delta 9 Differences

Both deltas are found in cannabinoids but Delta 8 isn’t as abundant in cannabis when compared to Delta 9 — this means Delta 8 specifically has to go through an extraction process for the effects to be potent. It’s also found that Delta 8 can be synthesized and extracted from CBD. Most Delta 8 variants come from hemp — instead of marijuana where Delta 9 is sourced from.

Legality

The legality of cannabis varies from one state to another. Over 30 states allow the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes, but only 22 allow weed for recreational purposes.

Delta 8 is legal in states that allow marijuana usage but only when it’s derived from hemp. In states like California, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania, Delta 8 can be sold and used as long as it doesn’t contain more than 0.3% of the cannabinoid.

On the other hand, Delta 9 is generally legal on a federal level as long as it doesn’t come from marijuana strains with high THC content; the potency and potential psychoactive effects of Delta 9 are what make the isomer controversial. Idaho, for instance, banned the sales of Delta 9 completely. In California, Delta 9 is listed under Prop 45 regulations — this means warning labels should be applied to the products.

What Are the Effects

Euphoria

Whether it be CHD or THC, weed can make you feel good! Both deltas can give you the intoxicating feeling that THC provides. The only difference that people reported was Delta 8 has a type of high that’s described to be “smoother.” Delta 9, on the other hand, can make you feel good about yourself and potentially heighten your senses.

Illnesses and Pain Management

Both deltas seem to have positive effects on those who suffer from chronic pain. But some Delta 8 users with autoimmune illnesses claimed to have experienced joint redness and swelling after taking the THC derivative.

Delta 9 can be an outstanding aid for people who suffer from epilepsy or cancer. It can help relax patients, reduce the chances of a seizure occurring, and it can stimulate one’s appetite — many who undergo (or underwent) chemotherapy find that Delta 9 is their better option. However, it’s important to know that taking Delta 9 in high doses can induce nausea.

Anxiety

If you ever had a bad trip before, then you know how awful the paranoia can get. The good thing about Delta 8, is it’s not known to cause or trigger anxiety or paranoia — even to the ones who suffer from panic or anxiety disorders. Delta-9 does not exactly do the opposite unless taken in high doses.

Risks

Delta 8 and Delta 9 haven’t been regulated on a nationwide scale yet. Therefore, many are not aware of the possible risks of taking these cannabis-derived isomers. There have been reports of hospitalizations due to Delta 8 and Delta 9 toxicity.

Most patients who sought treatment for Delta 8 and/or Delta 9 toxicity were said to have experienced paranoia, hallucinations, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, vomiting, dizziness, loss of consciousness, and many more uncomfortable (and sometimes dangerous) side effects.

One 4-year old from Virginia recently died from overdosing on Delta 8 gummies. His cause of death was ruled as “delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol toxicity” by the medical examiner — the mother was later charged with felony murder and felony child neglect.

The Deal with Delta 8 and 9

Both deltas can be amazing THC varieties. There’s not much difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 besides that they both come with the high that people want, the benefits that users seek, and the side effects that both types can bring. However, it’s imperative to be aware of the possible dangerous risks.

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