Table of Contents
Introduction
With the increasing growth of the cannabis industry, there is an enhanced interest in the different cannabinoids present in the plant. The CBD vs. Delta 8 vs. Delta 9 vs. Delta 10—the topic itself looks like a competitive math question. Still, it’s not as difficult as it sounds to understand because CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the most well-known compounds. Also, there are various forms of THC, such as Delta 8 THC, Delta 9 THC, and Delta 10 THC, in which each of them has unique chemical structures and interacts differently with the body, especially with the endocannabinoid system. This blog provides a comparative overview of these compounds, so let’s dive into this without wasting time.
What Are Cannabinoids?
These are the chemical compounds that are found in the cannabis plant, which further interact with receptors in the body. The endocannabinoid system is the part that is present internally in the human body and plays an important role in the functioning of these cannabinoids.
CBD and THC are two of the most researched cannabinoids, but Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 THC have recently gained attention due to their differences in molecular structure and how they affect the body.
What is an endocannabinoid system (ECS)?
Endogenous cannabinoids, or endocannabinoids, are naturally occurring, lipid-based neurotransmitters. These are the chemical messengers in the body that deliver signals between nerve cells. Two of the main endocannabinoids identified include:
- Anandamide (AEA, or arachidonoyl ethanolamide)
- 2-archidonoyl glyerol (2-AG)
Also, they have two receptors, CB1 and CB2, on the surface of cells throughout the body. The endocannabinoids attach or bind to the receptors, which sends a message to the ECS to initiate the response. This process is done by these receptors or endocannabinoids, known as the endocannabinoid system. Let’s discuss the effects of different cannabinoids on this.
CBD or Cannabidiol
This is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it doesn’t give the “high” associated with THC. Extracted from the plant leaves or flowers, this CBD interacts primarily with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system without strongly binding to these receptors. Also, this weak binding and structural difference between CBD and various THC is the main reason for its non-intoxicating properties.
CBD is consumed as an extract, oil, or capsule, whereas it can also be consumed as a smokable flower that can be found in many carts and vape disposable.
Delta 8 THC
Delta-8 THC is a naturally occurring minor cannabinoid in cannabis but is typically found in very low concentrations. Being chemically similar to Delta 9, this is the most abundant and popular form of THC, but slightly differently positioned double bond in its carbon chain. For Delta 8 THC, the double bond is located at the eighth carbon atom, while for Delta 9 THC, it is located at the 9th carbon atom.
This minor difference in molecular structure leads to differences in how these compounds interact with the CB1 receptors. This has a weaker binding affinity to the CB1 receptors, which may lead to different experiences. It is consumed in different forms; the most interesting is the Delta 8 gummies.
Delta 9 THC
This is the most abundant form of THC found in cannabis and is responsible for many variant effects that are often associated with marijuana use. This compound binds more strongly to CB1 receptors, causing the well-known cognitive function changes of the body. Chemically, Delta-9 THC has a double bond at the ninth carbon atom, which is responsible for its interaction with the endocannabinoid system. This interaction delivers a stronger effect than Delta 8 THC or Delta 10 THC. It can be taken in various forms, and there are famous Delta 9 products for consumption.
Delta 10 THC
This is the newly discovered and less researched form of THC. It is present in small concentrations of cannabis, just like the Delta 8. It has a double bond located on the tenth carbon atom in its structure. This placement changes how the compound interacts with the endocannabinoid system, particularly the CB1 and CB2 receptors.
Although there is not very much scientific research done on Delta 10 THC, its structural difference from Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC suggests that it likely interacts with the body differently. There are many famous forms in which Delta 10 can be consumed and is available both online and offline.
How are these cannabinoids extracted?
The extraction process of CBD, Delta 8 THC, Delta 9 THC, and Delta 10 THC are important to understand from a scientific point of view. CBD is extracted from hemp plants by using methods such as CO2 extraction for the assurance of high purity and safety of the compound. Delta 9 THC, being abundant in marijuana, is commonly extracted directly from the plant.
On the other hand, Delta 8 THC and Delta 10 THC are present in much lower concentrations in the cannabis plant because they are often synthesized from other cannabinoids like CBD or Delta 9 THC through chemical reactions, distillation, and other processes.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the major differences between CBD vs. Delta 8 vs. Delta 9 vs. Delta 10 are present in their chemical structures and interactions with the endocannabinoid system. While Delta-9 THC remains the most widely recognized and potent form of THC with its strong binding capabilities with the receptors. Delta-8 THC and Delta-10 THC offer alternative experiences due to their structural differences and composition. Whatever the cannabinoids are, they all possess unique characteristics, delivering the results accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the primary difference between CBD and Delta cannabinoids (8, 9, and 10)?
Ans. The primary difference between CBD and Delta cannabinoids (8, 9, 10) is that CBD is non-psychoactive, while Delta cannabinoids have varying psychoactive effects, with Delta-9 being the most potent. - What are the effects of CBD compared to Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10?
Ans. CBD provides calming and anti-inflammatory effects without a high, while Delta-8 offers mild effects, Delta-9 gives stronger effects, and Delta-10 delivers a more energizing and milder experience. - Is CBD legal compared to Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10?
Ans. CBD is legal federally in the U.S. if derived from hemp, while Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10’s legality varies by state, with Delta-9 being federally restricted above 0.3% THC. This may vary by the government from time to time. - Which is the safest option among CBD, Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10?
Ans. CBD is considered the safest option, as it is non-psychoactive and has fewer reported side effects than Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10. - Can we mix CBD with Delta 8, Delta 9, or Delta 10?
Ans. Yes, CBD can be mixed with Delta-8, Delta-9, or Delta-10 for the balancing of psychoactive effects, though it’s important to start with low doses.
