You have probably heard of THC, but may be wondering “What is Delta 8 THC?” Delta 8 happens to be a cannabinoid found in cannabis. It is not as known as its counterparts Delta 9 THC and CBD. However, this form of THC is making a strong impression on the market, and will soon be the newest product that everyone is talking about. In this guide, we will go over what is Delta 8 THC and more.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Most individuals would not even be aware that more than one form of THC exists. This is because the other forms are not widely talked about, but change is on the horizon. Since the legalization of hemp, the exploration of cannabinoids has become more prevalent.
When you hear the acronym THC most people think about Delta 9 THC, which is the psychoactive property of marijuana. However, there is more than one type of THC. Delta 8 THC was first discovered in 1975. Since then it has been widely studied to show the overall wellness support that it can provide.
Delta 8 THC is gaining more limelight because it comes from hemp and is legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. It does have some psychoactive properties but is not as potent as Delta 9 THC. Both forms of THC have similarities and differences. They only sit one atom apart but are leagues different when comparing potency and legalities.
Delta 8 THC is rare and is only found in small amounts within the hemp plant. However, Delta 8 can now be produced through specialized breeding, extraction, and processing methods.
Understanding Cannabinoids
The Cannabis plant has around 144 cannabinoids with most of them coming from one singular precursor cannabinoid acid, known as CBGA. Enzymes found within the cannabis plant will change from CBGA into different cannabinoid acids, including THCA and CBDA. Once these acids go through a heating process (decarboxylation) they will become cannabinoids.
As you may have already guessed, THCA will transform into THC. Every cannabinoid offers different support, but they only have slight changes when it comes to their chemistry. Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC are only positioned one carbon atom apart but offer different support.
This may all be a bit scientific and complex, but the point being made is that Delta 9 THC is not the only cannabinoid in cannabis. It may be the most widely known, but many other notable cannabinoids are being studied and discovered.
Delta 8 THC Among Other Cannabinoids
There are over 100 cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant. Delta 9 THC and CBD happen to be the most popular as they are widely talked about. However, there are a lot of smaller cannabinoids that are not as well known, including Delta 8.
Delta 8 only comes in small concentrations in the hemp plant. It is produced by cannabinoid-synthesizing enzymes within the plant. As the plant goes through an aging process, the stored THC will transform into Delta 8 THC. However, commercial growers will use selective breeding and molecular isolation to produce greater quantities of Delta 8 THC.
How Does Delta 8 Work With The Endocannabinoid System?
Yes, Delta 8 is less potent than Delta 9, but it can work with more systems in the body. A lot of people are turning to Delta 8 when it comes to medicinal use, as it has small amounts of psychotropic potency.
Delta 9 only works with CB1 receptors, while Delta 8 will work with both CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are found within the nervous system, connective tissues, gonads, glands, and organs. CB2 receptors are primarily found in the immune system.
Delta-9 vs. Delta-8 — Similarities and Differences
Now that you know a little more about both types of THC, you may be wondering how the two compare. They have a similar chemical makeup but are separated by one carbon atom. Delta 8 has a double bond on the 8th carbon while Delta 9 has a double bond on the 9th.
Both are tetrahydrocannabinol, but Delta 8 is more subtle than Delta 9. It does not have the same type of psychoactive properties that Delta 9 has, and this is why many people prefer Delta 8. Delta 9 THC is less stable than Delta 8. It goes through an oxidation process to produce other cannabinoids including Delta 8. While Delta 8 is not as abundant as Delta 9, commercial growers use a wide variety of methods to produce larger amounts of Delta 8 THC.
Delta 8 is hemp-derived and is legal in most states. This type of THC falls under the 2018 Farm Bill which makes it more accessible than Delta 9.
Truly Hemp
We are a premium vendor for Delta 8 THC products. You will find a wide variety of products on the Truly Hemp Website including edibles, tinctures, vape cartridges, and more. If you should have any questions when shopping around please do not hesitate to contact us. We hope that this blog has answered the question, “what is Delta 8 THC?”
