With the growing popularity of cannabis products like Delta 8 and CBD, many consumers are wondering how these two compounds compare. While Delta 8 THC and CBD are both derived from hemp, they have some key differences that distinguish their effects and legal status. This article will examine the origins, chemical structures, effects, uses, and legality of Delta 8 versus CBD to help shed light on whether these trending cannabinoids are the same or not.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 THC is one of over 100 compounds found in the cannabis plant called cannabinoids. Specifically, Delta 8 THC is an isomer of Delta 9 THC – the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the characteristic mental and physical “high.” While Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC have a similar chemical structure, Delta 8 produces milder psychoactive effects.
Delta 8 THC is naturally found in small traces in hemp and cannabis plants. Concentrates of Delta 8 THC that are sold today are typically synthesized from CBD extracted from hemp. This extraction and conversion process allows Delta 8 products to contain legal levels of THC under 0.3% as outlined in the 2018 Farm Bill.
Effects of Delta 8
The effects of Delta 8 THC are often described as similar to Delta 9 THC, but less potent. At low doses, Delta 8 can generate:
- A mild sense of euphoria
- Increased relaxation
- Reduced anxiety
- Enhanced focus
- Uplifted mood
At higher doses, Delta 8 can produce:
- Intensified euphoria and happiness
- Heightened creativity and sociability
- Analgesic effects that relieve pain
- Increased appetite
- Drowsiness
Delta 8 typically does not cause the same levels of paranoia, anxiety, and “mind racing” sensations often associated with Delta 9 THC. However, side effects like bloodshot eyes, dry mouth, and dizziness may occur at high doses.
Uses of Delta 8
Delta 8 THC is used similarly to Delta 9 THC, but with less intense psychoactivity. Common uses include:
- Reducing stress, anxiety, and tension
- Improving sleep
- Elevating mood
- Increasing focus
- Stimulating appetite
- Relieving minor aches and pains
Delta 8 is also being explored for anti-nausea, neuroprotective, and anti-cancer properties in early research.
Forms of Delta 8 Products
Popular forms of Delta 8 products include:
- Vape cartridges and juice
- Tinctures and oils
- Edibles like gummies
- Flower
- Topicals
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is another prominent cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, CBD is non-intoxicating and does not cause a high feeling.
CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system but has little binding affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors that THC binds to. This allows CBD to alter serotonin, opioid, and other signaling systems in a more indirect manner.
Hemp-derived CBD contains 0.3% THC or less. While marijuana-derived CBD products can contain greater levels of THC, doses are typically low enough to minimize psychoactivity.
Effects of CBD
Research shows CBD can produce a wide range of beneficial effects, including:
- Reducing anxiety and depression
- Decreasing inflammation and pain
- Providing antioxidant support
- Improving sleep quality
- Aiding neuroprotection and cognition
Side effects are generally mild, but can include diarrhea, fatigue, and changes in appetite and weight. CBD is well tolerated, even at high doses.
Uses of CBD
Common uses of CBD products include:
- Anxiety and stress relief
- Chronic pain management
- Reducing seizures in epilepsy
- Skin moisturization
- Joint support and pain relief
- Sleep aid
- Mood enhancement
Research also shows promise for CBD in treating conditions like depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis, and arthritis.
Forms of CBD Products
CBD is sold in various forms, including:
- Oils and tinctures
- Capsules and pills
- Edibles like gummies
- Vapes and e-liquids
- Topicals and beauty products
- Pet products
Key Differences Between Delta 8 and CBD
While Delta 8 and CBD share similarities, there are some notable differences between these hemp derivatives:
| Delta 8 | CBD |
|---|---|
| Psychoactive compound | Non-psychoactive compound |
| Produces a mild “high” feeling | Does not cause a high feeling |
| Derived from THC | Separate compound from THC |
| More stimulating effects | More relaxing effects |
| Regulated like THC products | Not as strictly regulated as THC |
| Mainly interacts with CB1 receptors | Indirect interactions with CB receptors |
| Common in vapes, edibles, tinctures | Found in wide range of ingestion methods |
While their mechanisms of action differ, both Delta 8 and CBD appear capable of reducing anxiety, improving sleep quality, elevating mood, and relieving pain when used properly.
Is Delta 8 Legal?
Delta 8 exists in a gray legal area. Technically, Delta 8 derived from hemp is legal on a federal level, since the 2018 Farm Bill legalized derivatives and isomers of hemp including all tetrahydrocannabinols under 0.3% THC. However, some states have stricter regulations that ban Delta 8.
The DEA maintains Delta 8 is illegal, as it is synthetically derived from CBD and considered an analogue of Delta 9 THC. But this classification is being challenged in court. Ultimately, the legality of Delta 8 products can vary based on specific state laws.
Delta 8 Legal States
States where Delta 8 is legal include:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Delta 8 Illegal States
The following states have banned Delta 8 products:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Idaho
- Iowa
- Kentucky
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Montana
- New York
- North Dakota
- Rhode Island
- Utah
- Vermont
- Washington
Always check your local laws before purchasing Delta 8 products.
Is CBD Legal?
In contrast to Delta 8, CBD derived from hemp is legal on a federal level per the 2018 Farm Bill and in most states. The FDA also approved a CBD oral solution called Epidiolex in 2018 for treating rare seizure disorders. State laws align closely with federal law in legalizing CBD products made from hemp, though some restrictions apply in states like Idaho, Nebraska, and South Dakota.
The legal status of CBD became more defined with the passage of the Farm Bill. Provided CBD products contain 0.3% THC or less, are derived from hemp, and follow other state regulations, they are legal at a federal level. However, if derived from marijuana or containing over 0.3% THC, CBD remains a Schedule 1 controlled substance federally, just like marijuana.
In most states, consumers have access to a wide variety of hemp-derived CBD products both online and in stores, including oils, edibles, topicals, and vape liquids.
Choosing Between Delta 8 and CBD
When deciding between Delta 8 and CBD products, considerations include:
- Your tolerance for psychoactive effects – Delta 8 produces more of a “head high” while CBD is non-intoxicating
- Desired uses – Delta 8 leans more recreational while CBD offers major wellness benefits
- State laws – Delta 8 legality varies more state to state
- Accessibility – CBD is widely available while Delta 8 access is still limited in some areas
- Side effect concerns – CBD is extremely well tolerated by most people
While both compounds offer therapeutic benefits, Delta 8 is more akin to THC for recreational use, and CBD aligns more with health and wellness applications. Consider your individual needs and how you hope to benefit when weighing Delta 8 versus CBD.
Combining Delta 8 and CBD
Delta 8 and CBD can also be used together to enhance effects. Those who use Delta 8 products but want to take the edge off psychoactivity often add CBD to “balance out” and mellow the high.
The combination may increase benefits like pain relief and anxiety reduction. However, combing Delta 8 and CBD could intensify side effects as well. Starting with low doses of both and adjusting carefully is advised.
Future of Delta 8 and CBD
Delta 8 and CBD offer distinct benefits in treating conditions ranging from anxiety to chronic pain. With cannabinoids going mainstream, both Delta 8 and CBD are primed for tremendous growth.
The CBD market in particular is flourishing, with projections estimating $20 billion in sales by 2024. Increased research validating therapeutic benefits coupled with growing public and political acceptance will further cement CBD as a mainstream wellness option.
While Delta 8 still resides in more of a legal gray area, consumer interest is rapidly rising. If legislative hurdles are overcome, Delta 8 could gain significant traction for recreational use with its milder high that still provides enjoyment and relaxation.
As cannabis compounds gain legitimacy worldwide, we can expect continued product innovation, expanded applications, and optimized delivery methods. Both Delta 8 and CBD represent intriguing additions to the cannabinoid landscape with unique risk-benefit profiles to match different user needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Delta 8 and CBD showcase how seemingly similar cannabis compounds can have distinct effects and uses. While research is still developing, existing evidence points to some clear differences between these trending hemp derivatives.
Delta 8 produces psychotropic effects closer to Delta 9 THC, while CBD is non-intoxicating and offers more general health and wellness benefits. Their legal status also varies, with CBD more widely accessible and Delta 8 facing more restrictions currently.
In choosing between Delta 8 vs CBD products, individuals should consider their personal priorities including tolerance for psychoactivity, desired effects, availability in their state, and more. With smart consumption, both Delta 8 and CBD hold promise for recreational enjoyment and therapeutic support.