Delta 8 vs Delta 9: Pros, Cons, Similarities, and Differences

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Nutrition World > Blog > Delta 8 vs Delta 9: Pros, Cons, Similarities, and Differences

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In 2013, as I was walking down the aisles at our annual nutrition convention in Orlando, Florida, I tried my first-ever sample of CBD. I could never have dreamed of how that special little molecule would change the world of health and nutrition as we know it.

Fast forward to today and many states have legalized practically all forms of nutritional hemp. I’m thrilled by this newfound freedom but also concerned about all of the potential greed out there in the market. I see the CBD/Delta 8 CBD industry as a kind of wild west.

This is why Nutrition World carefully vets all of our products and ensures that our practices are honest and ethical.

But what is Delta 8 and Delta 9 CBD? Keep on reading to learn more!  

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The New Kids in Town 

One of the biggest game-changers in the CBD industry is the introduction of Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC.

Now, hemp and marijuana plant flowers come from the cannabis sativa plant. When cannabis is high in THC, it’s considered marijuana. When the cannabis plant contains less than 0.03 percent THC, it’s considered hemp.

THC is the psychoactive compound that’s responsible for the notorious “marijuana high.” When we talk about THC, we usually refer to Delta 9 THC. However, the cannabis plant also contains Delta 8 THC.

The chemical molecular structures of both of these compounds are almost identical except for a minor difference in a double bond. This slight change is what makes for a significant difference in results for users.

I have personally experimented with Delta 8 and Delta 9 products. I’ve also received comments from hundreds of users. Hopefully, my information will help you make more informed and effective decisions on the subject.

Delta 8

Delta 8 is usually referred to as “marijuana lite.” That’s because you tend to get the same effects as regular Delta 9 THC but in a less powerful form.

A lot of effort is put into extracting Delta 8 because it is not as common as Delta 9. Delta 8 is a minor cannabinoid and these products tend to be more expensive than Delta 9 ones.

Some labs will synthetically make Delta 8 but we also prefer the natural option at Nutrition World.

Delta 8 can help people with a variety of conditions. These include nausea, anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain.

One of the big differences between Delta 8 and Delta 9 is the effects that they give off. This is usually the deciding factor for a lot of people who aren’t sure about which product to take.

If you are looking for mild effects or are new to cannabis then you might be better off taking Delta 8. Delta 8 may provide you with a sense of clarity and tranquility. You’ll feel less stressed and more relaxed.

You’ll also likely experience better sleep and no hangover effects the next day. The side effects are minimal to none compared to Delta 9.

You’ll also feel Delta 8 come on slowly and will gradually ease into the experience.

Because Delta 8 is less powerful, it can be easier to dose and will allow you to act calmly in a variety of situations while still experiencing all of the pleasant effects.

Delta 9

Delta 9 THC is one of the most prominent cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. It is fairly simple and cheap when it comes to extracting Delta 9. This means that Delta 9 products are also relatively affordable.

Delta 9 is far stronger and more potent than Delta 8. If you suffer from severe chronic pain or insomnia then Delta 9 can probably help you. Delta 9 is so powerful that it is sometimes used to treat nausea in cancer patients.

Some paraplegics will also use Delta 9 to reduce muscle spasms.

With that said, Delta 9 is not for the faint of heart. It can be overwhelming for some at even moderate doses. Inexperienced users may very well experience paranoia, dizziness, mental fog, anxiety, and impaired motor skills.

If you are new to Delta 9 then it is recommended that you start with a very small dose and slowly increase your dosage to a point you’re comfortable with.

Delta 9 also comes on almost immediately when smoked and can have effects lasting for several hours. You might even feel residual effects for a full day and feel something akin to a hangover the next day.

Important Things to Know Before You Try Delta 8 and Delta 9

One of the best ways to consume these products is by eating gummy edibles. I strongly recommend that you only buy from brands that have been tested by third-party labs. This way, you can confirm the dosing.

Because manufacturers use solvents to extract the CBD and THC, you need to be very careful with the products you choose. Some of these solvents can be toxic and dangerous.

I like brands that put a lot of effort into their products and packaging. So if I see that the package has a QR code of the actual batch, I feel more confident in it.

I also want to check the testing information and make sure that no pesticides or mold is present.

Each state has its own laws for CBD and THC. So make sure that you’re aware of the law as you travel around the country. When you take these products, remember that you can test positive for THC, even if it’s a small dose.

It’s also a good idea to talk to your doctor before you take cannabis products if you’re also being treated for medical conditions. And finally, never combine Delta products with pharmaceuticals that treat conditions related to sleep, anxiety, and the heart.

I always say that you need to weigh the risks and rewards when it comes to products like these. Nothing you consume is going to be 100% good or bad for you, and that applies to Delta products.

I’ve noticed in my four decades of experience that when you consume products that are clean, safe, and properly dosed, you’ll usually have a very positive experience.

Also, I strongly believe that regular CBD products that don’t contain Delta come with powerful long-term benefits. They don’t have psychoactive effects and can even help prevent things like inflammation and joint pain.

Is Delta 8 or Delta 9 Right for You?

While Delta 8 CBD and Delta 9 share a lot of similarities, they aren’t identical. By knowing the core differences between these compounds, you can ensure that you make smart decisions when it comes to what you put in your body.

Check out our online store today and find the right CBD/Delta product for you!

Disclaimer. The information on this website and the topics discussed have not been evaluated by the FDA. Or, any one of the medical profession. And it is not aimed to replace any advice you may receive from your medical practitioner. Nutrition World assumes no responsibility or liability whatsoever on the behalf of any purchaser or reader of any of these materials. Nutrition World is not a doctor, nor does it claim to be. Please consult your physician before beginning any health regimen. If you are being treated for any medical illness, check with your medical professional before starting any protocol