There are many derivatives from the cannabis plant but the ones that have caught the eyes of many are CBD and THC. CBD is renowned for its outstanding therapeutic benefits and the fact that it won’t get you high, which is unlike Delta-9 THC that although, renowned, is often the subject of deep disagreements owing to its psychotropic tendencies.

We’re certain you have heard of Delta-9 THC, but what about Delta-8? Delta-8 is gaining momentum amongst cannabis enthusiasts as well, but many are still at a loss as to what it is and how it differs from Delta-9 THC.

Delta-8 THC

Delta-8 THC is one of the derivatives of the cannabis plant but because it occurs in very small amounts naturally, it is often synthesized from its sister compound Delta-9 THC. Delta-8 THC is very similar structurally to Delta-9 THC but they differ in their nature of effects.

Delta-8 binds to the cannabinoid G-protein coupled receptor CB1, located in the central nervous system and it exhibits a lower psychotropic potency than delta-9-THC.

We will discuss the differences between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC under the following headings; chemical structure, effects, and efficacy and stability.

Chemical Structure

Delta-8 THC is chemically different from delta-9 THC by the positioning of the bond. Both substances share the same bond structure but Delta-8 THC bonds to the 8^th carbon chain, while Delta-9 THC bonds to the 9^th carbon chain.

This difference in bonding gives each its unique characteristics, effects and stability as we will see in the next heading.

Effects

Unlike Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 THC does not possess a strong psychotropic tendency. While Delta-9 THC is sure to get you high, Delta-8 THC offers a much lessened psychotropic reaction but retains the same therapeutic benefits of THC.

Researchers have found Delta-8 THC applicable for use in the management of adverse reactions of chemotherapy in children and in young adults. 

Efficacy and Stability

Like we have mentioned above, the change in bond position created a gulf of differences. The difference in structure increased the chemical stability of Delta-8-THC relative to Delta-9-THC, lengthening its shelf life and greatly improving its efficacy.

The efficacy and stability of delta-8-THC make it an extremely valuable cannabis-derived chemical compound. The compound’s benefits and effects serve both medical and recreational consumers alike, and it illustrates the power of individual chemical constituents within cannabis.