Blog

Cannabis and Cannabinoids 

Cannabis is full of cannabinoids that react with our body’s endocannabinoid system– the biological system made up of neurotransmitters and cannabinoid receptors which respond to the chemical compounds found in cannabis sativa. You’ve probably heard of cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (“CBD”), Tetrahydrocannabinol (“THC”), and cannabigerol (“CBG”). The most well-known cannabinoid is THC, otherwise known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Delta-9-THC is often the most common cannabinoid found in cannabis plants and is responsible for the psychotropic effects of cannabis. However, Delta-9 has a sister compound: Delta-8-THC. Although Delta-8-THC is similar to Delta-9-THC, there are a few key differences between the two. 

What is Delta-8 THC?

According to the National Cancer Institute, Delta-8 THC is:

“An analogue of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) with antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. [Delta-8-THC] binds to the cannabinoid G-protein coupled receptor CB1, located in the central nervous system… This agent exhibits a lower psychotropic potency than [delta-9-THC], the primary form of THC found in cannabis.” If you're interested in experiencing Delta-8's unique effects, consider exploring where to find premium THC syrup for sale as an alternative consumption method.

Delta-8 THC, like Delta-9-THC, is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Since only small amounts of it are found in dry cannabis flowers (less than one percent), it is known as a “secondary” cannabinoid, while Delta-9-THC is commonly referred to as the “primary” cannabinoid in cannabis. For those interested in liquid consumption methods beyond traditional tinctures, explore our liquid cannabis concentrate options designed for versatile mixing and precise dosing. Although Delta-8-THC does not naturally occur in high amounts, concentrates high in Delta-8-THC can be extracted from the cannabis plant through selective breeding, molecular isolation, and conversion. 

Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC

Delta-8-THC and Delta-9-THC are both cannabinoids with a few differences in their chemical composition. Both cannabinoids contain double bonds. In fact, the “delta” in their names refers to these double bonds. The difference between the two is where these double bonds are located. The numbers in their names — 8 and 9 — refers to where the double bond is positioned. In Delta-8-THC, the double bond is on the 8th carbon in the chain, while in Delta-9-THC, the double bond is on the ninth carbon. The shift in the double bond means that Delta-8-THC and Delta-9-THC react differently with the endocannabinoid system the best places to buy delta 8 sleep products.

Delta-8 THC and the Endocannabinoid System

Delta-8-THC has a lower psychotropic potency than Delta-9-THC. For more information on edibles, check out our detailed guide on 1000 mg gummies that explains their benefits and uses. CBD also binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors. One way to think about Delta-8-THC is like a cross between CBD and Delta-9-THC.

Ways of Taking Delta-9 THC

Although Delta-8-THC naturally occurs in relatively low concentrations in comparison to Delta-9-THC, it can be artificially extracted and concentrated. Consumers interested in hemp-derived beverage formats can also explore a 50 mg thc drink as an alternative way to experience cannabinoids.