Unlike the common notion attached to cannabis as an intoxicating substance, it comes with unique qualities offering a wide range of medicinal and therapeutic benefits.
Interestingly, it is not only one or two compounds of cannabis that have made it through the chart. But, various minor cannabinoids are in the market with unique properties.
The article will help you explore the two most popular and emerging variants in the cannabis industry and state the differences between them, i.e., Delta 8 vs Delta 9. We will cover the difference between them in terms of the extraction process.
What is Delta 8?
Cannabis is best- known for its intoxicating qualities. However, one thing that came to the light of day is a wide range of cannabinoids. These have the capability of causing various physical, mental, and emotional effects on the body.
These cannabinoids are gaining immense popularity like CBD, CBN, CBG, Delta 8, etc.
Delta 8, as defined by the National Cancer Institute, is an analog of THC. It has various analgesics, appetite-stimulating, anxiolytic, and antiemetic. It has neuroprotective qualities and thus, comes with a wide range of advantages.
Further, Delta -8 also gives a mild psychoactive effect and thus, offers you a balanced enjoyment. Hence, it helps experience a wide range of medicinal and therapeutic benefits. In addition to this, you do not face any counter experiences.
What is Delta 9?
Delta 9 THC is the most active psychoactive constituent of the cannabis plant. It is responsible for the high sensation one gets on the consumption of cannabis.
It is a primary cannabinoid in the cannabis plant and exists in abundance. Thus, it is straightforward to extract it.
Delta 9 is twice as potent as Delta 8 and thus offers more psychoactive effects than its younger sibling Delta 8. Therefore, it is a more regulated substance.
Delta refers to the placement or occurrence of carbon in molecule structure. In Delta 8, the double bond of carbon exists on the 8th chain, whereas the double bond of the carbon chain lies on the 9th chain in the case of Delta 9.
Both Delta 9 and 8 tend to react with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce wide-ranging effects. However, the difference in their molecular structure affects their experiences.
Studies have suggested that Delta-bound cannabinoids tend to possess the best neuropathic properties.
Delta 9 binds effectively with CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system has vital roles in the body like immune system response, metabolism rate, pain handling qualities, etc.
Owing to its high potency, it offers a high euphoric effect which gives the sensation of relaxation, laughter, etc.
Generally, people tend to enjoy the high experience it offers. However, it is always advisable for beginners to consume lower dosages first to enjoy the experience in a much better fashion.
If consumed in lower doses, it can offer a wide range of therapeutic benefits. It provides relaxing or soothing effects, is a muscle relaxant, and shows sleep-supportive qualities.
The Extraction Process
Cannabis plants are a reservoir of various cannabinoids. While some are majorly known to occur naturally, some cannabinoids fall in the gray area where they occur in such low concentrations that it is not commercially viable to extract them directly.
Delta 8 is one such cannabinoid that does occur naturally. However, it exists in such low concentrations that it is not feasible for companies to extract it directly as it would require too much effort, money, and time.
Vendors produce Delta 9 using CBD and solvents such as toluene or heptanes. In addition to this, the process involves strong acids. You extract CBD isolates or pure CBD from the hemp flower.
After you take out the isolate, you convert it into distillate and add solvents like heptanes or toluene. In addition to this, you add acid reagents to affect this reaction.
Manufacturers neutralize these substances by using an alkaline material. You wash and clean it up. The process is expensive and extensive. But, it leads to high-quality Delta 8.
Extraction by way of CBD helps in ensuring the legality of Delta 8. CBD is from hemp plants containing less than 0.3% THC. Thus, it is legal in many states.
The extraction of Delta 9 THC is a cheap and straightforward process. It is due to the high concentration in which it exists in the cannabis plant.
Be Aware!
The market has various sellers offering numerous Delta 8 and Delta 9 products. However, due to the high potency levels of Delta 9 and the extensive procedure, it becomes crucial to take a few steps. It is advisable to choose the product which offers high quality. Thus, it minimizes the chances of risk associated with such products. There are various factors which you must take into account while choosing both Delta 9 or Delta 8 products:
- Third Party Lab Testing
It is best to go for companies offering independent third-party lab testing reports. It helps in verifying the contents of the products.
- Ingredients
Various brands add substances to reduce the overall effectiveness of the product. For instance, they add artificial additives, GMOs, etc.
You must take a look at the list of ingredients. And, then select the one with minimal or rather no artificial additives or chemicals which may have some counter effects on the body.
- Brand
The extraction process of Delta 8 is quite extensive and also pricey. And thus, there is the scope that producers may compromise with the quality of such Delta 8 products.
You should select reputed brands that offer high-quality products and have excellent customer service in place to help you with any of your issues and queries if they may arise relating to the product.
Conclusion
The slightest change in the molecular structure of Delta 8 and Delta 9 is also significant enough to cause changes in its properties and effects which it may cause.
While both are part of naturally occurring cannabinoids, the lower concentrations of Delta 8 in the cannabis plants make it infeasible for producers to extract it directly. And hence, it comes into the picture using a synthetic process.
The choice between Delta 8 and Delta 9 depends on personal preferences as if one wants to receive a state of good mental high. Delta 9 is the correct choice. However, if one wants to go for a more subtle and relaxing experience, users are more likely to opt for Delta 8.
It is upon you to choose the best for your body. You can even consult your doctor for the best results.
