Delta-8 CBD and delta-8 THC are two different compounds derived from the cannabis plant that have similar names but distinct chemical structures and effects. There is often confusion around whether they are the same thing or not. Here we will explore the key differences between delta-8 CBD vs. delta-8 THC to understand if they are the same.
What is Delta-8 CBD?
Delta-8 CBD, short for delta-8 cannabidiol, is a minor cannabinoid found naturally in small quantities in the hemp and cannabis plant. Chemically, it is similar to CBD or cannabidiol, one of the most abundant compounds in cannabis. The only difference is the location of a double bond on the 8th carbon chain instead of the 9th carbon in CBD. This small change results in delta-8 CBD having slightly different properties than CBD.
Like CBD, delta-8 CBD does not produce any intoxicating effects. Initial research suggests delta-8 CBD may have similar therapeutic benefits to CBD such as reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and neuroprotection. However, there have been few in-depth studies on delta-8 CBD so its effects and safety are not fully characterized yet.
Most delta-8 CBD products on the market are synthesized from CBD isolate through a chemical process. The delta-8 CBD is then typically blended with a carrier oil to make tinctures, capsules, vapes and other products. Natural delta-8 CBD extract is rare and expensive due to low concentrations in the plant.
What is Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC or delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol is a minor cannabinoid that occurs naturally in tiny amounts in cannabis plants. It is an analog of delta-9 THC, the primary intoxicating compound in cannabis responsible for the “high” feeling. Delta-8 THC produces psychoactive effects similar to delta-9 THC but is purported to be less potent.
Like delta-8 CBD, most delta-8 THC products are synthetically produced from CBD, hemp or cannabis extract through chemical reactions. The process converts CBD to delta-8 THC through isomerization. Trace amounts of chemicals are sometimes left over, raising safety concerns over impurities.
Delta-8 THC products have surged in popularity recently as an alternative to delta-9 THC. Delta-8 THC exists in a legal gray area but is commonly marketed as legal hemp products. Effects can include euphoria, relaxation, increased appetite, and pain relief.
Key Differences Between Delta-8 CBD and Delta-8 THC
While their names are similar, there are distinct differences between delta-8 CBD and delta-8 THC:
Chemical structure
The molecular structures of delta-8 CBD and delta-8 THC are different. Delta-8 CBD has a double bond on the 8th carbon chain while delta-8 THC has a double bond on the 9th carbon chain.
Psychoactive properties
Delta-8 THC is psychoactive, producing a high feeling, while delta-8 CBD is non-psychoactive like CBD. Delta-8 THC attaches to CB1 receptors in the brain which mediates the high.
Legality
Delta-8 CBD derived from hemp is legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. Delta-8 THC exists in a legal gray area with conflicting views on its legality under federal law. Many states have banned delta-8 THC.
Prevalence
Delta-8 CBD occurs in cannabis plants in very small concentrations. Most delta-8 CBD products are synthetically produced from CBD isolate. Delta-8 THC also rarely occurs naturally but can be synthesized from CBD, hemp or cannabis.
Therapeutic benefits
Delta-8 CBD is believed to have similar therapeutic effects as CBD but research is still preliminary. More is known about the benefits of delta-8 THC including euphoria, relaxation, appetite stimulation and pain relief.
Side effects
Delta-8 CBD has no known side effects although research is limited. Delta-8 THC can cause side effects like intoxication, red eyes, dry mouth, and paranoia in higher doses.
Safety concerns
There are minimal safety concerns over pure delta-8 CBD. However, safety issues with delta-8 THC products have been raised due to potential residual solvents, heavy metals and other impurities left over from chemical synthesis processes.
| Characteristic | Delta-8 CBD | Delta-8 THC |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical structure | Double bond on 8th carbon chain | Double bond on 9th carbon chain |
| Psychoactive | No | Yes |
| Legality | Federally legal from hemp | Legal gray area |
| Prevalence | Rare, mostly synthesized | Rare, mostly synthesized |
| Therapeutic uses | Anxiety, pain, neuroprotection (unproven) | Euphoria, relaxation, appetite, pain relief |
| Side effects | Minimal known side effects | Intoxication, dry mouth, red eyes, paranoia (in high doses) |
| Safety concerns | Minimal | Due to impurities from chemical synthesis |
Are Delta-8 CBD and Delta-8 THC the Same Thing?
Based on the differences outlined above, delta-8 CBD and delta-8 THC are clearly not the same thing. The only similarity between the two is having “delta-8” in the name – chemically they are distinct compounds with very different properties and effects in the body.
While they share a similar origin from the hemp plant, delta-8 CBD is non-intoxicating like CBD while delta-8 THC is psychoactive like THC. Their legality also differs, with delta-8 CBD federally legal and delta-8 THC existing in a gray area.
When purchasing delta-8 products, it is important to check lab tests to verify you are getting the intended compound. Mislabeling and contamination have been found in some delta-8 THC products.
Conclusion
Delta-8 CBD and delta-8 THC are unique cannabinoids that share a similar name but have very different chemical structures, effects, legality and safety profiles. While research on both is still emerging, they are clearly not the same compound. Delta-8 CBD is non-intoxicating while delta-8 THC produces a high feeling. Safety concerns also exist over synthetically produced delta-8 THC products which are not found with pure delta-8 CBD.
If you are seeking the therapeutic benefits of CBD without any high feeling, delta-8 CBD may offer an alternative option. However, research on its effects and pharmacology in humans is still in early stages. Always look for lab test results and purchase from reputable brands when trying any new cannabis-derived product.