The cannabis plant contains many components (over 120, to be exact) which each have their own distinct characteristics and health advantages. Delta 9 THC is a compound that people who use hemp and cannabis products should know about. The compound that creates a 'high' effect functions through Delta 9 THC. Things become complicated when you examine Delta 8 THC.
We explored everything about Delta 8 THC legal status yet this cannabis compound contains hidden aspects that most people overlook. Want to try Delta 8 THC but don’t really know what it is or how to use it. Continue reading to find out more about Delta 8.
What is delta 8?, Delta 8 (sometimes called D8) exists as a cannabis plant component that functions like CBD and Delta 9 THC (which people also call THC). Delta 8 exists in cannabis plants at lower levels than CBD and Delta 9 THC yet its popularity continues to grow for several different reasons.
Chemical Structure Variations
We should explain Delta 8 THC as a separate entity from Delta 9 THC which requires basic rules of distinction. The two components exist as distinct entities because their chemical properties create different results.
Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC may sound very similar but they aren’t exactly the same. The difference between the two substances exists because their atomic structures are arranged in different ways.
. The simplest way to put it: both components are isomers of THC, and both have double bonds in their designs. Where that double bond is, is what makes a difference between the two. Delta 9 has a double bond on the ninth carbon chain, Delta 8 has a double bond on the eighth. This causes a difference in their potency levels and is the major reason why Delta 9 THC is federally illegal.
Properties of Delta 8 THC
Since the chemical structures of Delta 8 cbd and Delta 9 THC are different, their properties are different as well. The details of Delta 9 have been massively covered in cannabis communities throughout the years, so let’s focus more on D8 for now. The properties of D8 are the following:
- Exists in much lower quantities in the plant than Delta 9 THC
- Is less potent due to the double bond on the eighth carbon chain. That makes it perfect for individuals who don’t tolerate Delta 9 and want a slightly weaker version of it
- Interacts with CB2 receptors, which are in the digestive tract and immune system and are responsible for controlling inflammatory reactions inside the body
Effects of Delta 8 THC

When D8 is extracted and treated properly, it may have fantastic effects on the body. It does often cause a bit of a ‘high’ sensation, although it is less than Delta 9 THC products. With that in mind, here are some of the main effects that Delta 8 THC ingestion may produce:
- Antiemetic effect – this means it may help relieve nausea due to it interaction with the CB2 receptors in the gastrointestinal system
- Anti-inflammatory effect – the interaction with CB2 receptors may cause relief from inflammation in muscles
- May help relieve uneasiness and discomfort by relaxing the body – another reason why D8 is sometimes preferred over Delta 9 THC, which may cause paranoia and discomfort in some cases
- Analgesic effect – may help ease discomfort
It’s important to note that in very large quantities, may result in Delta 8 side effects like:
- Dry mouth
- Problems with digestion
- Discomfort
You can avoid these side effects by using D8 in safe, controlled doses.
Legality
One of the best things about D8 is that it is currently not facing any limitations or prohibitions, making it federally legal!
While Delta 9 THC is illegal, D8 products are completely legal to purchase and use, except in these states: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, Rhode Island, and Utah.
If you want to learn more, check out our blog about the legal status of Delta 8 THC here!
Final thoughts
Taking the time to learn more about cannabis and its components can only be beneficial in the long run. It’s important to educate yourself on these topics as much as possible! There are many interesting points that make D8 one of the most promising components of the cannabis plant. We hope to see more research on Delta 8 THC in the future, as there aren’t many scientific studies on this component yet.
*The authors of this article are not medical professionals, and any information presented in it is only their best knowledge of the subject.


