Lately, all kinds of people have been seeking out THC for its calming and euphoric effects. Yet, many of them report having paranoid or anxiety-ridden experiences once they try it.

Delta 9 THC works great for some, but its extreme potency can have frightening side effects that keep many away. If that sounds like you, you might consider giving delta 8 THC a try.

Delta 8 THC typically has minimal side effects and more benefits compared to delta 9. It is still a psychoactive drug, but it’s unlikely that you will get too high while using it. You can experience all the chill and none of the anxiety.

Keep reading to learn more about delta 8 THC vs Delta 9 THC.

What Is Delta 9 THC?

Delta 9 THC is a cannabinoid molecule found in marijuana products such as joints, edibles, and flower. THC is what causes changes to your mental state after taking it in one of many different ways.

Effects of Delta 9 THC

Delta 9 THC has many reported positive and negative effects on people. It reacts with CB1 receptors located in the brain and brainstem. When it reacts with these receptors, people tend to experience the following:

  • Anxiety
  • Paranoia
  • Euphoria
  • Confusion
  • Tiredness
  • Difficulty with decision making

Depending on the person, they may feel all these or only a few. They may also feel delusional or have trouble with normal motor skills.

The Legality

There are several states in the U.S. where delta 9 is legal recreationally. They include Colorado, Washington, Oregon, New York, and more. Each year, more states legalize delta 9 THC, yet it is still illegal at the federal level.

What Is Delta 8 THC?

You can think of delta 8 THC as a sibling to other cannabinoids like CBD and delta 9 THC. Most delta 8 is taken from industrial hemp and can be found in many full-spectrum CBD products.

Delta 8 is similar to both CBD and THC because it has light relaxation properties, and it is a psychoactive drug. When comparing delta 8 THC vs delta 9, the difference is in their intensities.

Effects of Delta 8 THC

Delta 8 THC works inside the body the same way as delta 9 THC, binding to the same CB1 receptors in the brain and brainstem. After ingesting, smoking, or vaping delta 8, you are likely to feel the following effects:

  • Euphoria
  • Mental and physical relaxation
  • Mental clarity
  • Improved appetite

Delta 8 is known for its mild effects that can help one reduce negative thoughts and feel more relaxed. Unlike delta 9, this cannabinoid wears off quickly and only gives you a slight high feeling.

The Legality

As of 2022, most states have not banned delta 8 THC products. However, some states have made it illegal, including Idaho, Nevada, Utah, and Iowa. At the federal level, delta 8 is legal to buy and consume.

You can find 8 products such as delta 8 disposable vapes, edibles, and wax either online or in stores.

Delta 8 THC vs Delta 9 THC

When you are deciding whether you should try delta 8 THC vs delta 9, consider your past with cannabinoids. If you’ve never tried delta 9 before or have had a bad experience with it, delta 8 could be right for you.

If you want to learn more about topics like this, check out the rest of our site’s health and wellness page.