What is the Difference Between Delta 8 and CBD?
Understanding a Microdose
How To Microdose with Delta 8 edibles
Microdosing cannabis is one of the most searched topics on Google. While the internet is exploding, books and articles on the subject pop up left, right, and center. This has left the masses too interested in taking the microdose approach.…
Just a few years ago, the only cannabis-based compound any of us knew (or cared) about was THC. Then, the industry introduced us to CBD, and it’s never been the same since.
In the time since CBD’s mass appeal started to pick up, we’ve also witnessed the emergence of Delta-8 THC, which was big news for anyone who didn’t know that there’s more than one type of THC.
And it’s enough to beg the question: what could we possibly do to shake up the cannabis world even more?
Simple: add Delta-10 THC.
Delta-10 THC is mild like Delta-8, but generally considered to be uplifting and stimulating, while providing a gentle sense of focus. And also, like Delta-8, Delta-10 THC has fit into a legal gray area within the country’s cannabis laws.
But as a cannabinoid that’s still extremely new on the market, Delta-10 has raised some concern in individuals, especially when it comes to side effects.
Join us as we discuss the potential side effects of Delta-10 THC: what we know, and what we don’t.
What is Delta-10?
Similar to Delta-8, Delta-10 is an isomer of THC. Delta-8, Delta-9 and Delta-10 all have the same compounds as each other, but in different arrangements. This slight variation in structure causes each isomer to produce an effect that’s unique enough to create some distinction, while still sharing plenty of similarities.
While Delta-10 isn’t a cannabinoid that’s been talked about much until recently, it’s found naturally occurring in cannabis along with Delta-8 and Delta-9. However, these amounts tend to be quite low in hemp.
Because of these low levels, Delta-10 THC is typically produced through a conversion process known as isomerization.
Typically, the isomerization process starts with dissolving CBD in a nonpolar solvent. Then, an acid is incorporated into the solution, and it’s continually stirred for 18 hours at a consistent temperature of 212 degrees Fahrenheit.
From here, the CBD can convert through dozens of different cannabinoids, and any of them can convert the CBD into Delta-8, with varying results depending on the formula.
Once the conversion is finished, the solution is washed and neutralized, typically with a sodium bicarbonate solution.
Then, the most critical phase is conducted: testing. With high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), the solution is separated so that the Delta-8 is extracted from the matter before it undergoes testing to confirm its purity.
It’s worth noting here, though, that conversion is never 100 percent, and there is always going to be some varying level of byproducts, but at JustCBD, we have some of the purest batches of Delta-8 on the market, and offer our lab reports for ready viewing online.
Delta-10 vs Delta-8
Delta 8 THC and Delta 10 THC have both been known to create a high that’s mild, mellow, and relaxing, and their psychoactive effects aren’t as intense as those of other cannabinoids. And depending on the individual, Delta-10 is popular for both medicinal and recreational use.
Delta 10 THC has also been found to be noticeably less potent than the Delta-8, while still providing users with that psychoactive quality you might be familiar with through marijuana.
Additionally, Delta-10 doesn’t stay in the body as long as Delta-8, and this is related to CBN content. CBN has been shown to produce a sedative effect that’s quite potent compared to other cannabinoids, and it can help promote relaxation and fight pain, hence its popularity for medicinal usage. And while Delta-8 THC releases at a slower rate, it also stays in the body for a longer period of time.
What Are the Effects of Delta-10?
As a form of THC, Delta-10 THC has the potential to make users high, and according to users, the high created by Delta-10 is said to involve less of a body high compared to Delta-8, and rather more of a buzzy, cerebral high.
It’s also worth noting that Delta-10 tends to have a weaker ability to bind to CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, hence milder effects.
Delta-10 has also been noted by users for creating a high that’s energizing and uplifting, which has often led to its comparison to sativa strains in cannabis, though with fewer side effects linked to anxiety.
Can Delta-10 Cause Seizures?
There’s particularly been some controversy with THC in the realm of seizures; while the CBD pharmaceutical Epidiolex has been approved by the FDA as an anti-seizure medication, THC has raised concerns for causing seizures. For instance, one study observed that marijuana may ease seizures, but it may also worsen the aftereffects by causing oxygen deprivation in the brain.
However, such studies have mainly focused on Delta-9 THC, and so it’s unclear whether delta-10 will have similar effects. Additionally, there are conflicting studies suggesting that cannabis may actually help with seizures, with a handful of trials that have been conducted since around 1970.
However, there have been a handful of studies conducted in the U.S. since 1970. Other studies, even some ongoing, have been done around the world, and otherwise, no cases of seizures induced by delta-10 have been reported.
Can Delta-10 Give You Anxiety?
Delta-10 THC has garnered a bit of a reputation for encouraging relaxation and isn’t as known for creating the same anxiety or paranoia as its THC sibling Delta-9, making it an excellent choice for calming down anxiety without increasing drowsiness.
But can Delta-10 cause anxiety?
As with other types of THC, Delta-10 has the potential to trigger side effects of anxiety, although this appears to be less prevalent with Delta-8 and Delta-10.
Still, Delta-10 THC can produce that euphoric rush we know from THC, though it’s far less sedative or potent than your typical Delta-9 THC. Still, further research is needed on these isomers, and everybody’s unique ECS and metabolisms produce varying results with use.
It’s also imperative that users stick with high-quality, third-party tested Delta-10 THC products. Some companies in the industry will happily sell you low-quality or low-potency Delta-10 THC products for a quick cash grab, and since the FDA does not regulate the compound, due diligence on the customer’s part is necessary.
Finally, it’s important to remember that, as with Delta-8 THC products, Delta-10 THC products are converted from CBD rather than directly sourced from cannabis, and while this is not a definitive cause of harm or concern, it is encouraged to proceed with caution when using synthetic versions of cannabinoids, at least until further research has been done, and its potential adverse effects are fully understood.
Will Delta-10 Make You Fail a Drug Test?
Similar to Delta-8 and Delta-9, the use of Delta-10 may cause you to fail a drug test.
With that in mind, it’s worth noting that drug tests will only determine whether THC metabolites are present in the body, and because these metabolites can occur from the consumption of Delta-8, Delta-9, or Delta-10, any type of THC will cause users to fail a drug test.
Can Delta-10 Make You Sick?
Even with potential adverse side effects like anxiety and lethargy, THC is generally well-tolerated in consumers. And since Delta-10 is far milder than Delta-9, users can expect a much milder version of the typical array of side effects, including dry mouth, increased appetite, psychoactivity, and red eyes.
Final Thoughts
At this point, we would normally take this opportunity to discuss some of the studies surrounding the potential side effects of Delta-10 products. However, Delta-10 is so new at this point that the studies are highly limited.
Keep in mind, however, that Delta-10 can be converted into a match for the original Delta-10 without creating any kind of toxic residue.
All of that is to say that Delta-10 is new, and therefore, the research around its side effects is lacking. Presently, the information we have on hand about Delta-10’s side effects are purely anecdotal, coming from the few consumers who have had the opportunity to try it.
The point is that Delta 10 is new, and therefore, there has not yet been any true research pertaining to its properties or effects.
What is Delta-10?
Delta-10 vs Delta-8
What Are the Effects of Delta-10?
Just a few years ago, the only cannabis-based compound any of us knew (or cared) about was THC. Then, the industry introduced us to CBD, and it’s never been the same since.
In the time since CBD’s mass appeal started to pick up, we’ve also witnessed the emergence of Delta-8 THC,…
The 2018 Farm Bill impacted the hemp industry in a number of ways, but perhaps one of the most interesting results to come from it is delta-8 THC.
Often dubbed “the little sister” of delta-9 THC, delta-8 is a form of THC that specialists can source from hemp, making it a hemp product according to the Farm Bill. And through this legal gray area, delta-8 has become a legal way for users to get high, albeit at a milder rate compared to marijuana.
On top of its recreational uses, delta-8 is growing increasingly sought after for therapeutic purposes, whether it’s stress relief or pain management.
However, many users are concerned with the potential side effects that delta-8 may cause. And today, we’re here to help clear them up for our readers. Here’s what you need to know about delta-8 and its potential side effects.
What is Delta-8?
So what exactly is delta-8?
Essentially, delta-8 is an isomer of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, aka, the notorious compound we know from cannabis. Perhaps best known for its psychoactive properties, THC can trigger in users a rush of euphoria and sense of intoxication known as a high.
When we talk about THC, we’re usually referring to delta-9 THC, which is the most common isomer to be found in marijuana, and has been for decades. And while it wasn’t always as well known, THC can actually come in a number of different chemical structures, hence the different isomers like delta-8, delta-9 and even delta-10.
That being said, delta-8 and delta-9 have two key differences-the first one being that delta-8 is not as potent as delta-9. In fact, it’s widely estimated that delta-8 is in fact only about half as potent as delta-9, which is why you’ll typically experience a more mild high from delta-8 in comparison.
The second major difference between delta-8 and delta-9 is that while delta-9 is primarily sourced from marijuana, which is still illegal in most states, delta-8 is actually made from hemp, which is a federally legal substance. And this is a big deal, because under the 2018 Federal Farm Bill, hemp-derived products are legal as long as they come from industrial hemp and contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.
How Delta-8 is Made
The way in which delta-8 is converted is nothing new. In order to create delta-8, CBD undergoes a patented process known as isomerization, which has been practiced for decades since its development by G. R. Webster, Leonard Sarna, and Raphael Mechoulam. Through the isomerization process, both THC and CBD can be converted into delta-8 THC, although CBD tends to require fewer steps and less cleanup.
Typically, the isomerization process starts with dissolving CBD in a nonpolar solvent. Then, an acid is incorporated into the solution, and it’s continually stirred for 18 hours at a consistent temperature of 212 degrees fahrenheit.
From here, the CBD can convert through dozens of different cannabinoids, and any of them can convert the CBD into delta-8, with varying results depending on the formula.
Once the conversion is finished, the solution is washed and neutralized, typically with a sodium bicarbonate solution.
Then, the most critical phase is conducted: testing. With high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), the solution is separated so that the delta-8 is extracted from the matter, before it undergoes testing to confirm its purity.
It’s worth noting here, though, that conversion is never 100 percent, and there is always going to be some varying level of byproducts, but at JustCBD, we have some of the purest batches of delta-8 on the market, and offer our lab reports for ready viewing online.
Can Delta-8 Get You High?
Some consumers are still confused about the effects that delta-8 can create, the main one being: can delta-8 get you high?
Delta-8 can in fact get users high. However, consumers can generally expect a high that’s mild, mellow, and a bit cerebral. And while there can be some variation in each batch, this type of high is generally accurate across the market.
With that in mind, it’s also worth noting that a highly concentrated delta-8 product will be more psychoactive than, say, oils, but in the case of products with a mild or moderate level of delta-8, most users report an exceptionally relaxed body high, while still functioning with a clear head.
Additionally, there’s been discussion in the industry about whether CBD and delta-8 can interact with each other to create a more heightened experience. However, there are currently no clear studies on the subject, so while we may have the theory of the entourage effect, there is currently no solid evidence of this function.
That’s all to say that when consuming a delta-8 product, there’s a chance that taking a CBD product in tandem could offer some benefits, although there is no evidence proving that these two cannabinoids work better together than individually.
Can Delta-8 Cause Psychosis?
The link between cannabis and psychosis is still something we don’t fully understand, but there’s been considerable research exploring it.
In one systematic review, researchers reviewed literature based on population and longitude, along with nested case-control studies that analyzed the long-term impacts of cannabis on psychosis. Based on the results from seven cohort studies, it was shown that cannabis users experienced a 40% increase in risk of psychosis compared to nonusers.
And while scientists continue to examine the relationship between delta-8 and psychosis, it’s important that users are aware of the potential risks associated with cannabis.
Delta-8 and Coordination
For many users, delta-8 products have become a relaxing way to unwind at the end of a day, especially for those who might work physically demanding jobs. And since delta-8 has only about half the strength as delta-9, you might not notice an impairment in your motor skills or coordination.
And while some individuals may be concerned about delta 8’s impact on motor skills during exercise or physical activity, it may actually be helpful. Aside from the mellow, mild body high that delta-8 creates, it may also aid in easing the inflammation associated with muscle fatigue and delayed muscle soreness.
That being said, it’s never recommended to use delta-8 while performing high-risk activities, and individuals should never drive or operate heavy machinery after taking it.
Can Delta-8 Cause Anxiety?
As with similar THC products, delta-8 is often sought out by those who wish to alleviate their anxiety and paranoia. And while it’s widely believed that delta 8 can help put one’s nerves at ease, taking too much can actually make anxiety worse. And because everyone has different needs and different body chemistry, the meaning of “too much” will vary each individual.
Can Delta-8 Cause Headaches?
While experts are still researching the therapeutic benefits of delta-8 THC, there are many individuals who’ve reported anecdotal success, especially when it comes to pain relief–and this includes headaches.
With its structural similarities to delta-9 THC, it interacts with the body similarly, as well. And in one 2018 animal study, it was found that delta-8 interacts with CB1 receptors in the body, enabling them to manage pain and inflammation. Further, it was noted by the researchers that delta-8 was particularly effective in the case of injuries to the eye’s cornea. That being said, the authors also noted that it’s uncertain whether the results on animal subjects would translate to human subjects, so further human trials will be needed.
Meanwhile, it’s also worth noting that the National Cancer Institute recognizes delta-8 as “antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties,” nodding to its pain-relieving effects.
But can delta-8 actually cause headaches?
With the lack of research on the subject, we still haven’t identified every single side effect that can be caused by delta-8 THC, or what might trigger them further. But based on anecdotal evidence, it is possible that some users might experience headaches as a side effect.
Final Thoughts
As is the case with most options in the wellness world, some users may experience some side effects with delta-8 THC.
And while we don’t consider it productive to touch on the more rare, less-researched side effects, we did want to touch upon some of the more common side effects, so that you’re aware of the risks before purchasing and using any products.
Ultimately, though, the chance of experiencing side effects will vary person to person, and factors such as the type of product consumed will play a major role, as well.
But when it comes to delta-8 edibles, such as delta-8 gummies, some of the most commonly-reported side effects included elevated heart rate, headaches, anxiety, and jitters.
And while these side effects might sound like downsides to taking Delta 8, it’s also worth noting that most users report side effects being mild and manageable.
Most importantly, though, users are advised to start low and go slow when trying a new delta-8 product.
What is Delta-8?
How Delta-8 is Made
Can Delta-8 Get You High?
The 2018 Farm Bill impacted the hemp industry in a number of ways, but perhaps one of the most interesting results to come from it is delta-8 THC.
Often dubbed “the little sister” of delta-9 THC, delta-8 is a form of THC that specialists can source from hemp, making it a hemp product…
Delta- 8 THC in any deliverable method may be intoxicating. Early research shows that it might improve a person’s appetite, make him feel like eating a lot, and boost sleep, making a person feel sleepy. Below is everything you need to know about the Delta- 8 THC edible effect.
Delta- 8 is a THC variant with the same effects as delta- 9 and THC, but its ‘high’ or intoxicating effects are mild. Delta 8 THC is fast growing in popularity because it links CBD and the delta- 9. It is psychoactive, but its ‘high’ effect is not as concentrated as delta- 9. There are many delta- 8 deliverables, including edibles that mask the earthy taste of cannabis and other compounds and guarantee flavor, making it easy to enjoy the edibles. So, how do the edibles make you feel? Peer into this article to get the answer to this question.
Introducing Delta- 8
The concern about delta- 8 THC’s effects is critical, but you equally need to understand delta- 8 as a compound. There are many active compounds in cannabis plants, including cannabinoids, terpene, and flavonoids. According to Schlinz et al. (2018), THC is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, mostly hemp, and marijuana. It comes in two forms; delta-9 and delta- 8, which according to Akpunonu et al. (2021), may be intoxicating but less psychoactive than delta-9. The two are isomers, meaning they feature the same atoms, but the molecular arrangement may slightly differ. Most people who do not like CBD for its non-psychoactive effects and delta- 9 for the ‘high’ effect opt for delta- 9 THC, which has milder effects.
Delta- 8 Deliverable Methods
Like CBD, delta- 8 as a compound is not directly absorbed into the body. Manufacturers have to infuse it into a form that’s easily absorbed into the body. Delta- 8 deliverable methods are the carriers for delta- 8 used to deliver the cannabinoid to the body so that the bloodstream can take it and exert effects. There are several ways of delivering delta- 8 to the body, including;
Inhalation
You can opt for inhalation to deliver delta- 8 to the body, and you may choose vapes or high-THC cannabis flowers for this. Inhalation promises fast delivery and allows the body to absorb more cannabinoids and other active compounds in cannabis.
Ingestion
You can also ingest delta- 8 by munching delta- 8 edibles. They are great at masking the earthy taste of cannabinoids and other cannabis compounds, and they may also guarantee taste, especially if they are flavored.
Sublingual Administration
Like inhalation, sublingual administration promises bioavailability, increased absorption, and faster results from the cannabinoid.
Topical Application
Like CBD, delta- 8 is also available in topicals. You can choose delta- 8 creams, salves, and balms, especially if you don’t want the cannabinoid to interact with the body.
What Are Delta- 8 Edibles?
One way to deliver delta- 8 to the body is by ingesting it. Delta 8 THC edibles are products infused with delta- 8. For instance, you can opt for delta- 8 cookies, gummies, mints, and tablets to take advantage of the cannabinoid. Gas stations and smoke shops are filled with delta- 8 edibles. However, it is worth noting that because of the lack of regulation and information in the delta- 8 space, some delta- 8 companies live up to the standards they claim.
How Do Delta- 8 Edibles Affect You
With the many delta- 8 products in stores, you may wonder how the cannabinoid will affect you. It is essential to take something whose effect you fully fathom. According to Akpunonu et al. (2021), delta- 8 is mildly psychoactive and intoxicating, meaning that you might feel slightly ‘high’ after taking its edibles. Its effects are not as potent as delta- 9 THC, but it is equally intoxicating. Still, it is not like CBD, which is non-psychoactive and does not have the ‘high’ effect.
Can Delta- 8 Edibles Make You Feel Better?
Most delta- 8 enthusiasts take the cannabinoid for fun and believe it might help them feel better. For instance, McCoy et al. (2018) reported that delta- 8 might improve one’s quality of life. It also purported that it can uplift a person because of the mild intoxicating effects. Avraham et al. (2004) established that delta- 8 could help improve one’s appetite, hence why people use it for weight gain. Besides, Tius & Kannagara (1990) reported that delta- 8 THC might help with acute and chronic pain. It is no wonder that people take delta- 8 THC cookies, gummies, mints, and tablets to manage pain through the cannabinoid’s analgesic properties.
Should You Buy and Consume Delta- 8 Edibles?
With the hype around delta- 8 THC edibles increasing, you may want to buy delta- 8 THC edibles for pain or better quality of life. You may wonder if delta- 8 products are viable and if you should go for them. Dotson et al. (2022) reported that delta- 8 safety is still in question. Therefore, before you go for any delta- 8 product, keep this in mind. The cannabis industry is largely unregulated, and it is not unusual to come across delta- 8 products with chemicals, heavy metals, filth, mold, organic matter, and residual solvents. The only way to increase your chances of landing on high-quality products is to focus on brands that conduct 3rd party tests and upload CoA on their website for easy viewership.
Conclusion
Delta- 8 THC is a THC variant with milder intoxicating effects. It is available in several delivery methods, including tinctures for sublingual administration and edibles for ingestion. Early studies show that delta- 8 THC edibles may make you feel ‘high’ but not as much as delta- 9 THC. You may want to try delta- 8 THC for pain, sleep, focus, or other therapeutic effects. However, it is worth noting that they may have dangerous chemicals because of the lack of regulation and information on delta- 8.
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Berry, E. M. (2004). Very Low Doses Of Delta 8-THC Increase Food Consumption
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Introducing Delta- 8 Disposable Vapes
What Makes Up a Disposable Delta- 8 Vape?
Delta- 8 Disposable Vapes Come in Flavors
Delta- 8 disposable vapes provide users with the convenience of vaping delta- 8 e-juice and recharging the battery. Still, it is worth noting that the metallic parts may wear out and decompose with time, exposing consumers to…
