With all of the news and publicity surrounding the many states legalizing the recreational and medicinal use of marijuana, many more people are exploring cannabis products and their potential benefits. However, with any newer product, there is still a lot of confusion among consumers who aren’t all that familiar with cannabis and the over 100 cannabinoids it contains. First, cannabinoids are the naturally occurring compounds in cannabis that offer many potential benefits and effects when ingested. These cannabinoids interact with the cannabinoid receptors in your brain, causing different effects.
The most popular and widely known cannabinoid is Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, Delta-9 THC is illegal federally and the primary cannabinoid affecting the legalization of marijuana use across the United States. The other most well-known cannabinoid is cannabidiol (CBD), which is quickly gaining popularity around the country. Finally, there’s also Delta-8 THC. Delta-8 products are also becoming more popular, including a range of various products like Delta 8 gummies 500mg, vapes, and more. Today, we’ll compare the differences between CBD and Delta-8 THC.
Delta-8 THC and CBD produce different effects.
The most significant difference between Delta-8 THC and CBD is their various effects. These two compounds interact with your cannabinoid receptors differently. Delta-8 THC binds to both of your cannabinoid receptors, causing a euphoric high feeling. However, CBD only attaches, instead of binding, to one of your receptors, thus causing no high. It’s worth noting that the high feeling that Delta-8 THC causes is roughly half of the potency of Delta-9 THC.
Aside from the high, Delta-8 THC and CBD produce many similar effects and potential benefits. For example, both of these products may help with feelings of occasional anxiousness, sleeplessness, and discomfort. Though much more research is needed to confirm the long-term effects of these cannabis products, many studies support the potential of these cannabinoids. However, keep in mind that the Food and Drug Administration does not approve cannabis products to treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition.
The availability of Delta-8 THC and CBD differ significantly.
In the standard cannabis plant, including hemp and marijuana, there is around one percent Delta-8 THC and about 20 percent CBD in the plant. As a result, CBD is drastically more abundant than Delta-8 THC. However, cannabis product manufacturers can convert CBD into Delta-8 THC using solvents. As a result, both cannabinoids are primarily sourced from hemp instead of marijuana to ensure they stay within the federal legal limit of less than 0.3 percent Delta-9 THC in their products.
Delta-8 THC and CBD legalities are different.
Since CBD produces zero psychoactive effects, it’s legal federally and in all 50 states in America. Furthermore, CBD is typically consumed for medicinal purposes instead of recreational use. On the other hand, Delta-8 THC is also legal federally as Delta-9 THC is the type of THC that’s illegal on the federal level. However, Delta-8 THC sale and use are restricted in 15 states due to its psychoactive effects, with more considering making it illegal. So, no matter where in the United States you are, you can purchase CBD so long as you’re above that state’s legal age requirement. However, if you want to buy Delta-8 products, you’ll need to check if they’re legal in your state and you’re above the legal age.
Delta-8 THC and CBD have some differences and similarities.
The most significant difference between Delta-8 THC and CBD is that Delta-8 products will cause a euphoric high feeling and CBD will not. However, the availability and legalities surrounding these two cannabinoids are also different. Aside from these differences, Delta-8 THC and CBD also share some similarities, including the potential benefits of each, the vast array of products available, and the fact that they’re both cannabis products. So, if you’re considering trying a new cannabis product, make sure to remember these differences to choose the best option for you.
