D8 (or Delta 8) is a cannabis compound that has become popular. Its popularity is largely because it shares many of the same properties as Delta-9 THC, which causes people to feel high. Many people want to know more about Delta 8, especially when it comes to comparisons with Delta 9 (THC).
This article covers a few key points about Delta 8 THC. Most significantly, it answers the question on everyone's mind: Does Delta 8 Get You Higher than Delta 9?
Similarities between D8 and Delta 9 THC
Both cannabinoids have similar chemical structures, and they are named similarly. Most of us have heard of THC- the prominent psychoactive cannabinoid. But did you know the scientific community knows it as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol? This is where the name Delta 9 THC comes from. So, if you hear of Delta 9, just think of it as THC.
Yes, the regular THC we all know as the main component that gets you feeling high. Delta 8, the rising star of the legal cannabis community, is an analog of THC. But what does that mean? As you can probably surmise, Delta 8 is short for delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol. Delta 8 and Delta 9's effects are pretty similar, but overall, Delta 8 is less potent.
D8 and delta-9 are both forms of THC. Delta-9 is the prevalent form found in cannabis, so when people talk about "THC" without specifying it further, they usually mean delta-9.
Will Delta 8 get you high?
Yes, D8 may get you high, but not as much as traditional delta-9 THC. For states where cannabis is illegal, Delta 8 may be a way to experience at least some of the effects of THC.
Some consumers may even prefer cannabis products that aren't as strong, even if they can legally obtain THC-containing ones. The high from this less common cannabinoid can be mild and pleasant. This is especially true for people who are sensitive to the effects of other cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Some people find that while D8's high is milder and lighter, it is simultaneously more energizing.
D8 (with its relatively smooth high) is about half as intense as delta-9 when it comes to their effects. Delta 8 users may experience blissful, euphoric, and uplifting sensations that resemble low doses of THC.
Delta 9 is much stronger than Delta 8. Some experts believe that it's twice as strong overall.
The effects of Delta 9 can be more intense than other forms of cannabis. Side effects may include paranoia, hallucinations, and altered perceptions, to name a few.
Many people have reported feeling relaxed and less burdened by stress after using Delta 8 THC. But, not so relaxed as to impair their ability to think clearly. Reports even show us the opposite. It's a relaxed feeling coupled with an energized and focused, clear-headedness.
The speed of onset also seems to separate Delta 8 from Delta 9 THC. Some users say the effects of Delta 8 take longer to feel. They are subtle and gentle—a sort of slow burn that steadily brings users down into a mellow state. In contrast, the effects of Delta 9 come on more rapidly but with an instantaneous lift.
How long do the effects of D8 last?
A high from D8 THC lasts as long as one from regular THC but is less intense. The duration of the effects depends on how much you take and in what form you take it. When it comes to Delta 8 drinks, it depends on how the drinks are made.
If the drink is made with bioavailability in mind, then your Delta 8 drink effects will likely last about an hour. If the drink works the same way as an edible, i.e., it travels through the digestive system. Then it'll take longer to feel the effects. As such, it will take equally long for the effects to last.
What about D8 vs. CBD?
Delta-8 has more structural similarities to THC (delta-9) than CBD does. Both in terms of the way it gets you high and because its chemical structure is similar.
Delta 8 also binds to the endocannabinoid system as Delta 9 does. While CBD does not, this is primarily why CBD is non-intoxicating.
CBD is a chemical compound from hemp and cannabis plants. But unlike THC—another chemical found in marijuana—it doesn't make users feel high. But users have reported it helps them to relax and even helps relieve pain. So, if you want to try something to help with those types of symptoms but without any high, perhaps CBD is for you.
How to find good, safe Delta 8
Although delta-8 is a relatively new cannabinoid, it may be challenging to find products that are what they say they are. And, what's more, whether they actually contain Delta-8 or not.
When shopping for Delta 8 goods, look for details on how the manufacturer sources its materials. It would be best if you also looked for the third-party lab report. This is also known as the certificate of analysis and should be readily available.
Avoid ones that are untested or whose test results aren't made public. You don't know if they contain D8, and it might not be safe for you to use!
The Bottom Line:
While the high from delta-8 THC could last as long as one from regular THC, it is less intense. As such, Delta 8 does not get you higher than Delta 9.
When shopping for Delta 8, check where the manufacturer sources their ingredients. But perhaps most importantly, check for a third-party lab report, also known as a COA. This certificate of analysis will tell you everything you need to know before you buy. Are you looking for quality Delta 8 drinks with a solid COA to back them up? Check out CoolOut and find your new favorite way to enjoy Delta 8 today.
