picture of a hemp leaf with words CBD and THCIf you’re confused about THC, Delta-8, and CBD, this article’s for you. When we talk about THC, we typically mean Delta-9, which is found in traditional marijuana.

But another, more recent compound has come to light - Delta-8 THC. The latest buzz about this cannabinoid is that it has many benefits as CBD and provides users with an extra kick of relaxation.

Keep reading to find out if Delta-8 is legal if it’s the same as Delta-9, its side effects, and how to find the best Delta-8 CBD.

What Is Delta-8?

Delta-8 is the less potent THC found in the cannabis plant. Like Delta-9 THC, which is typically found in marijuana, Delta-8 has different chemical compounds that make it less intoxicating.

Because Delta-8 is extracted from hemp rather than marijuana, users don’t experience the same effects but may benefit from several cannabinoids that interact with your ECS (Endocannabinoid System).

Delta-8 is often referred to as “marijuana-lite” because of its ability to provide relaxation without feeling hungover or paranoid. Delta-9, by contrast, is much more intense and will be handled in a much more psychedelic experience.

Are Delta-8 and CBD the Same Thing?

Delta-8 is a form of THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), the component responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis. CBD (Cannabidiol), like THC, is one of over 100 compounds found in the cannabis plant.

Unlike THC, however, CBD will not make you high. CBD and THC are the two most prominent cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Both THC and CBD effectively treat a wide range of mental and physical ailments.

hemp leaf buds and oils on a tableWhen we talk about cannabis, we typically look at two derivatives of that plant - marijuana and hemp. Most Delta-8 and CBD are sourced from the hemp plant, which has a much lower concentration of THC. 

In short, CBD and Delta-8 THC are two of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Scientists have determined that THC and CBD are the two most prominent compounds found in cannabis. They can be found together or separate, such as a THC-Free CBD Oil.

What Is Delta-9?

Delta-9 is sourced from the marijuana plant and is much more potent than Delta-8. The extraction process is typically cheaper and not as robust as Delta-8 CBD. You’ll normally find Delta-9 in marijuana which isn’t legal in every state. 

Is Delta 8 CBD Legal?

As long as it’s extracted from hemp, Delta-8 THC is federally legal. It can be confusing, but as long as you buy your Delta-8 CBD from a reputable manufacturer, it’s 100% legal. That’s because The Farm Bill Act in 2018 made a distinction between marijuana and hemp.

As mentioned, marijuana has much more THC than hemp, which contains a low Delta-8 concentration. Hemp, by law, contains only 0.3% THC levels. Like Eden’s Herbals, manufacturers that use a CO2 extraction process can effectively extract Delta-8 THC levels, ensuring potency and quality.

Eden's Herbals CBD oil collectionWhile Delta-8 is federally legal, states have restrictive laws that can challenge Delta-8 CBD legality. Twelve states currently ban the use of Delta-8 THC products, including:

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • Colorado
  • Delaware
  • Idaho
  • Iowa
  • Mississippi
  • Montana
  • New York
  • Rhode Island
  • Utah

A federal appeals court recently ruled that Delta-8 THC derived from hemp is eligible for trademark protection and lawful in a recent vaping dispute. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Delta-8 THC is legal if derived from hemp because of the Farm Bill act.

Does Delta-8 CBD Get You High?

Yes - some of you may feel some effects of Delta-8 THC, although not as intense as Delta-9. You may feel more mellow but not as paranoid as you would with traditional marijuana. You may think the mild “high” with Delta-8 can be a mild high and may produce a more relaxing effect than standard THC.

Another advantage of Delta-8 is receiving additional cannabinoids, besides CBD, to benefit your health potential. Known as the ‘entourage effect, when CBD is combined with the entire 100-plus cannabinoid profile present in the cannabis plant, it’s thought that your body responds better than with CBD alone.

Molecule make up of delta 8 and delta 9Eden’s Herbals offers a Full-Spectrum CBD oil that contains the entire cannabinoid profile. Our Full-Spectrum CBD also contains terpenes and flavonoids found in the genetic makeup of all plants, including hemp, to offer you optimal health benefits.

Benefits: Delta-8 CBD

When ingesting Delta-8, your body responds thanks to your ECS, a complex physiological system that regulates everything from mood to sleep and pain response. After about one hour, most people will experience the following benefits:

  • Improved mood
  • Sense of calmness
  • Relaxed feeling
  • More clarity
  • Ability to focus
  • More rested

Side Effects: CBD

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), CBD may cause the following side effects:

  • Liver Injury: This risk is lowered when managed with your doctor with an FDA-approved CBD product, such as Epidioloex (used for seizures).
  • It may interfere with other drugs: Especially those used to treat anxiety or sleep disorders.
  • Lethargy: Usually in the form of drowsiness.
  • Mood changes: may cause agitation in some.

Side Effects: Delta-8

hemp seeds oils and buds on a tableDelta-8 is a more mild form of THC, but still THC - which means it is intoxicating. Most will notice similar side effects to Delta-9, including the following.

  • Increased heart rate
  • Cottonmouth 
  • Irritated or red eyes
  • Difficulty in coordination
  • Trouble concentration
  • Short-term memory loss
  • Anxiety
  • Slower movement or reaction times

Shopping for Best Delta-8 CBD

The FDA is concerned about companies making claims about their product and THC content, so it’s essential to look for a few things when purchasing your Delta-8 CBD.

  1. Buy from companies that provide a lab analysis report that ensures proper THC levels (0.3% or less).
  2. Make sure your CBD is organic and sourced from American hemp.

Like ours, good Delta-8 CBD isn’t “cheap,” but you can sometimes find discount promotions running on our website’s home page.

Final Word

We’re still in the beginning phases of Delta-8 and CBD. As we learn more, new information will come to light to help determine other health benefits both these compounds may deliver. 

If you’re careful where you shop, and read labels, just know that hemp-derived Delta-8 CBD is legal. As always, start with the smallest dose and check with your medical doctor or holistic practitioner before starting a CBD regimen.

If you want to learn more about Delta 8 CBD, contact Eden’s Herbals at [email protected] today!

*These statements have not been evaluated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any illness. Medical advice should be taken from a medical professional.

All of the articles on this site are written by 3rd party content providers, expert bloggers, or doctors not directly affiliated with Eden’s Herbals.

Individuals should learn the risks and side effects prior to taking CBD. Make sure to always check with a medical professional before starting any new CBD treatment or medication that is not FDA approved.