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There’s a good chance you’ve heard of THC, the primary sought-after compound in marijuana. However, the two compounds you likely see the most are CBD and Delta-8 THC, as both are federally legal as long as they come from hemp. Here are some of the differences between these two popular cannabinoids:
What Is CBD?
CBD is short for cannabidiol, and it’s one of the most abundant cannabinoids found in hemp. CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it won’t get you high. This makes it a popular choice for those looking for the potential benefits of hemp without the psychoactive effects of THC.
CBD may be able to help with everything from anxiety to pain relief, according to studies. It’s also being studied for its potential uses in treating a wide variety of chronic conditions. Typically, you can find CBD in the form of oils, capsules, gummies, and topicals.
What Is Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC is a cannabinoid that’s similar to THC. However, it’s only about one-third as potent as THC. This makes it a much milder option for those looking for the potential benefits of THC without the psychoactive effects.
Like CBD, Delta-8 THC is non-intoxicating. However, it can produce some psychoactive effects at high doses that make you feel as if you were to try Delta 9. Delta-8 THC is available in the form of oils, Delta-8 gummies, and capsules. It can also be found in pre-filled cartridges for vape pens. Like CBD, you can find Delta-8 at smoke shops and specialized retailers.
What Are the Differences Between CBD and Delta-8?
Now that you know a little bit more about CBD and Delta-8, let’s compare the two cannabinoids side by side. CBD and Delta-8 are both cannabinoids, which are compounds found in the cannabis plant. Both CBD and Delta-8 have been shown to offer potential health benefits, including relieving pain, reducing anxiety, and promoting relaxation.
However, there are some key differences between the two cannabinoids. For one, CBD is non-psychoactive, while Delta-8 has psychoactive effects. For some–especially those who live in states where cannabis is illegal–Delta-8 may be seen as a legal way to get high.
There are also some discrepancies regarding the legality of Delta-8 THC. Some states have banned it, including Colorado–despite its lenient marijuana laws. As such, CBD is more widely available than Delta-8, as Delta-8 THC is much less popular than CBD.
Are Delta-8 THC and CBD Safe Substances?
Generally, these two substances are recognized as safe. However, it’s always important to start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed. This is especially true if you’re new to using cannabinoids.
It’s also important to remember that the FDA does not regulate over-the-counter hemp products. As such, it’s up to you to do your research and choose a reputable product from a trusted source. Otherwise, you risk using a product that contains lots of pesticides or chemicals that are unregulated by any government body.
Another thing to consider is whether you want to experience the psychoactive effects of Delta-8 THC. If not, Delta-9 is not a safe option for you, despite its lower potency.
Endnote
Both CBD and Delta-8 THC offer potential health benefits and are generally safe for most people. However, it’s important to start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed. It’s also crucial that you buy from a reputable source to ensure you’re getting a quality product.
