What's the difference between CBD and Delta 8?

Posted by Poppy Preston on Jul 3rd 2022

What's the difference between CBD and Delta 8?

The Difference Between CBD and Delta 8

The various by-products of Cannabis, such as CBD and Delta 8, are gaining traction in the industry for their purported medical benefits. These natural herbs feature specific properties that significantly contribute to a person's wellness. There is, however, the dilemma that people don't know how to differentiate between such cannabinoids.

Because it is a delicate subject, knowing the difference between the substances you consume is very important due to the laws that prohibit some substances. Similarly, today's roundup aims to educate our readers about the difference between CBD and Delta 8 and their place in society.

What's the Difference between CBD & Delta 8?

What is CBD?

CBD is short for Cannabidiol, and it is a cannabinoid that is derived from the hemp plant. It is a non-intoxicating substance since it contains a negligible amount of THC, which is generally the culprit behind the elevated effect on the body.

Over the years, CBD has been a subject of a plethora of medical research, and scientists have found evidence supporting that CBD could help contribute to a person's wellness. Furthermore, since the passage of the 2018 Farm bill, hemp-derived CBD that contains less than 0.3% of THC content has been legal throughout the country, heralding a significant shift in the Cannabis industry.

In recent years, the CBD market has soared in success, and non-smoking options such as CBD-infused edibles further bolstered its popularity. In today's world, CBD is used by many people that want to experience the soothing effects of the plant. At the same time, a new name in the industry, Delta 8, is also gaining traction among enthusiasts.

What is Delta 8?

Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol or Delta 8 is one of the cannabinoids of Cannabis derived from the hemp plant. The mind-soothing properties of Delta 8 set it apart from CBD. It is slightly psychoactive, causing a mind high, and can produce a mild buzz.

Delta 8 can bind with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) of the body by linking to the various CB1 and CB2 receptors found within the body.

Delta 8 is similar to THC (Delta 9) and has a similar molecular structure. However, Delta 8 offers a less intensive mind high and promotes a state of relaxation within the body. Therefore, under the 2018 Farm Bill, as Delta 8 differs from THC, it is considered legal per the guidelines.

Difference Between CBD and Delta 8: Effects, Benefits & Legality

While both cannabinoids are derived from the hemp plant, it is essential to understand the differences between the two compounds. CBD and Delta 8 feature distinct properties that set them apart.

Effects

CBD is a non-intoxicating substance, meaning consuming it won't get you high since it does not bind with the body's endocannabinoid system. On the other hand, Delta 8 is a psychoactive substance that can induce a mind high in a body by activating specific receptors which cause the body to feel euphoric.

Benefits

The substances, CBD and Delta 8, induce a feeling of relaxation by soothing the mind. Therefore, the therapeutic benefits of these substances make them an ideal choice for nighttime. Moreover, using these substances could improve mental ailments such as depresion and anxiety.

Legality

By the regulations stated in the 2018 Farm bill, hemp-derived CBD, which contains less than 0.3% of THC content, is wholly legalized within the country. Consequently, CBD is legal to use and sell in all 50 states of the US.

As for Delta 8, there's no proper regulation that defines the legal status of the substance. However, since Delta 8 is free from THC and an intoxicating substance capable of impairing judgment, Delta 8 is considered legal in most states.