With cannabis legalization expanding in the United States, consumers have more options when it comes to cannabinoids like delta 8 and delta 10 THC. Both of these analogs of delta 9 THC have become increasingly popular in legal hemp and cannabis markets. But which one of these THC variants provides stronger effects?
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 THC is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Chemically, it is similar to delta 9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, but with slightly different properties.
Delta 8 THC produces psychoactive effects similar to delta 9 THC, but is considered less potent. Users report delta 8 provides clear-headed, energetic effects compared to delta 9’s more sedative, hazy high.
Delta 8 occurs naturally in only trace amounts in most cannabis strains. It is typically synthesized from CBD or delta 9 THC to produce delta 8 products like vapes, edibles, and tinctures.
What is Delta 10 THC?
Like delta 8, delta 10 THC is another minor cannabinoid that is chemically similar to delta 9 THC. There is limited research on delta 10 available currently, but user reports suggest it may produce mildly psychoactive effects with an energizing mood lift.
Delta 10 is not found naturally in significant concentrations, so commercial delta 10 products are chemically synthesized from other cannabinoids like CBD. Delta 10 is newer to the commercial hemp market compared to the popularity of delta 8 products.
Delta 8 vs. Delta 10: How Potent Are They?
When comparing delta 8 and delta 10 THC, most evidence suggests delta 8 is the more potent compound with stronger psychotropic effects. Here’s how the psychoactive potency of these THC analogs is believed to stack up:
- Delta 9 THC: Most psychoactive isomer, considered the benchmark for cannabis potency
- Delta 8 THC: About 50-75% as potent as delta 9 THC, with mild-moderate psychoactive effects
- Delta 10 THC: Thought to be about 50-60% as strong as delta 9 THC, with mild psychoactive effects
The subjective user experience can vary between individuals. Some may find delta 8 to feel stronger, while others report more noticeable effects from delta 10 products. However, most evidence suggests delta 8 has greater psychoactive strength overall.
How Do Delta 8 and Delta 10 Feel Compared to Delta 9 THC?
The differences in chemical structures between delta 8, delta 10 and delta 9 THC cause some distinct differences in the effects and experience of using these cannabinoids. Here’s a quick rundown of how they may compare subjectively:
Delta 9 THC
- Strong cerebral and physical effects
- Euphoric, stimulating initially then sedative
- Increased sensory perception
- Impairs motor coordination and cognition acutely
- Increased appetite, dry mouth, red eyes common
Delta 8 THC
- Milder euphoric buzz, less intense than delta 9 THC
- Uplifting, clear-headed effects
- Enhances mood and focus
- Lowers anxiety, stimulates appetite
- Less likely to cause anxiety/paranoia
Delta 10 THC
- Subtle euphoric and relaxing effects
- Enhances creativity and focus
- Energizing, mood-boosting
- Lowers stress and anxiety
- Stimulates appetite
- Clear-headed high
Of course, individual reactions can vary greatly based on dose, tolerance, delivery method and many other factors. But in general, delta 8 and 10 are reported to be more clear-headed highs compared to delta 9 THC.
Delta 8 vs. Delta 10: Safety and Side Effects
Delta 8 and delta 10 THC have similar safety profiles to delta 9 THC. Side effects may include:
- Dizziness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Short term memory impairment
- Increased heart rate
- Slowed reaction times
- Red eyes
- Dry mouth
- Anxiety or paranoia
Delta 8 and delta 10 THC do not cause a fatal overdose on their own but combining with other drugs like alcohol can increase risks. Delta 8 and 10 may impair motor coordination and cognition, increasing chances of accidents if operating vehicles or machinery.
As with delta 9 THC, those with heart conditions, mood disorders, or a delta 8/10 sensitivity should use extra caution with these THC analogs. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid delta 8 and 10 until more research on potential risks is available.
Is Delta 8 or Delta 10 THC Legal?
The legal status of delta 8 and delta 10 products remains complicated. Both THC analogs can be derived from legal hemp, but fall into a legal grey area:
- Delta 8 THC remains legal at federal level, but some states like Colorado have banned delta 8 products.
- Delta 10 THC is illegal in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Kentucky, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Utah according to state laws.
Delta 8 and delta 10 THC are unregulated, so checking local laws before purchasing is advised. Reputable brands should provide updated certificates of analysis showing their delta 8 and delta 10 products meet legal requirements.
How to Choose Between Delta 8 and Delta 10 Products
When deciding whether delta 8 or delta 10 THC is best for your needs, it can help to consider:
- Intended use – Delta 8 may work better for relieving pain, nausea, or increasing appetite, while delta 10 could be optimal for mood lift or daytime focus/energy.
- Dosage needs – Those needing stronger effects may get more from delta 8’s higher potency. Delta 10 is better for microdosing.
- Effects – If wanting a clear-headed lift, delta 10 may be preferred over delta 8’s more intoxicating buzz.
- Experience level – Delta 10 is a better option for THC beginners, while more experienced consumers may enjoy delta 8 more.
- Availability – Delta 8 products are more widespread currently until delta 10 gains popularity.
- Legality – Check local delta 8/10 laws before choosing which to buy.
Delta 8 vs. Delta 10 THC: Which is Better for You?
There is no definitive “better” option between delta 8 vs. delta 10 THC. The best product comes down to individual factors like tolerance, legality, experience level, and the effects you desire. However, here are some generalizations:
- Delta 8 tends to provide stronger effects, making it potentially better for experienced THC consumers.
- Delta 10’s milder high may be more suitable for microdosing or beginner users.
- Delta 8 has more relaxing qualities, while delta 10 is more energizing.
- Delta 10 generally causes less anxiety or paranoia.
- Delta 8 has more research available on its effects and safety profile.
Trying low doses of both delta 8 and delta 10 products yourself and comparing the effects is the best way to determine which you prefer. You may even find combining delta 8 and 10 provides the optimal experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is delta 10 stronger than delta 8?
Most evidence shows delta 8 THC is more potent and produces stronger psychotropic effects compared to delta 10 THC. Delta 8 is estimated to be about 50-75% as strong as delta 9 THC, while delta 10 is thought to be around 50-60% as potent as delta 9.
Does delta 10 get you high like delta 8?
Yes, both delta 8 and delta 10 THC can produce psychoactive effects similar to the high caused by marijuana’s delta 9 THC. However, the high from delta 10 is reported to be much milder and clearer compared to delta 8’s more powerful buzz.
Is delta 10 legal?
Delta 10 THC derived from legal hemp is federally legal, but many states have banned delta 10 products according to local laws. Delta 10 remains illegal in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, Rhode Island, Utah, and Vermont.
What’s better for anxiety: delta 8 or delta 10?
Delta 10 THC is considered better for anxiety relief compared to delta 8 or delta 9 THC. Delta 10 is less likely to cause anxiety, paranoia or over-intoxication. It provides a more clear-headed experience that enhances mood without cognitive impairment.
Does delta 10 show up on a drug test?
Yes, delta 10 THC can cause a positive result for THC on a standard drug screening. However, delta 10 is less likely to trigger a false positive compared to delta 8 or delta 9 THC at typical hemp-derived doses.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to comparing the novel cannabinoids delta 8 vs. delta 10 THC, research and user reports show delta 8 provides more potent effects. Delta 8 can induce a euphoric high around 50-75% as strong as traditional delta 9 THC, giving it greater psychoactivity than the less intense delta 10 products.
However, delta 10 still offers mild cannabis-like effects with a clearer and more energetic buzz preferred by some consumers. Ultimately, the choice between these new THC analogs comes down to individual factors like experience level, tolerance, and desired effects.