What is the Difference in CBD and Delta 8?

Delta 8 THC products are growing rapidly in popularity. But what is Delta 8, and how is it different from CBD? Read on to learn more.

What is Delta 8?

Delta 8 (Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol) is one of the newest trends in the hemp industry and is being sold everywhere from high-end dispensaries to convenience stores. However, many people still don’t know exactly what Delta 8 is.

Delta 8 is one of hundreds of different cannabinoids that are found in the hemp and marijuana plant. The term cannabinoid is defined as “any of various naturally-occurring, biologically active, chemical constituents of hemp or cannabis.” Cannabinoids do not have to come from within us to affect our endocannabinoid system.

Because their molecular makeup is similar to that of endocannabinoids, cannabinoids originating outside our bodies can interact with our endocannabinoid systems, altering activity and delivering therapeutic benefits.

So, why is Delta 8 becoming so popular? It’s simple. The chemical structure of Delta 8 is very similar Delta 9 (Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol) which is the main psychoactive compound found in marijuana that produces the “high”. Delta 8 can produce as high as well but is generally less than the high experienced by Delta 9 users. In fact, it has been referred to as “diet weed” or “cannabis light” because of the lessened cognitive effects.

What is CBD?

The most abundant compound in hemp plants found in the flower and leaves is Cannabidiol, or CBD. CBD is one of more than 100 different cannabinoids that can be extracted from the hemp plant. CBD is a cannabinoid, meaning it acts on the endocannabinoid system of the body.

CBD is more specifically referred to as a phytocannabinoid, meaning that it is a cannabinoid originating from a plant. Cannabinoids do not have to come from within us to affect our endocannabinoid system, which is why CBD is able to impact us. Because their molecular makeup is similar to that of endocannabinoids, cannabinoids originating outside our bodies can interact with our endocannabinoid systems, altering activity and delivering therapeutic benefits.

What is the Difference Between CBD and Delta 8?

While both CBD and Delta 8 are cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant, they exhibit several distinct differences.

Different Effects on the Brain: CBD and Delta 8 impact the brain in unique ways. Delta 8 produces a “high” similar to Delta 9, albeit typically milder. In contrast, CBD does not produce any intoxicating effects and does not alter cognition or perception.

Drug Testing Implications: Full-spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of Delta 8, but not enough to cause intoxication or typically affect drug test results. However, since drug tests cannot distinguish between Delta 8 and Delta 9, users of Delta 8 might test positive for THC.

Appetite Stimulation: Delta 9 THC is well-known for stimulating appetite, often referred to as “the munchies.” Recent observations suggest that Delta 8 may have an even stronger appetite-stimulating effect. On the other hand, CBD tends to reduce appetite rather than increase it.

Shared Therapeutic Uses: Despite their differences, CBD and Delta 8 share some common therapeutic applications. Both are used to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and manage anxiety. Furthermore, they are generally legal in most states, provided they are derived from hemp.

In summary, while CBD and Delta 8 share some similarities in their therapeutic uses and legality, they differ significantly in their effects on the brain, implications for drug testing, and influence on appetite. Understanding these distinctions can help users make more informed decisions about which cannabinoid might best suit their needs.

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