Together with Barney’s Botanicals, Proleve offers a wide variety of Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC products, including baked goods, gummies, tinctures, syrups, and other ways to enjoy each of these cannabinoids. But you may be wondering: what is the difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC? Here at Proleve, we’ve got the answers you’re looking for.

In short -- both Delta 8 and Delta 9 are hemp-derived forms of THC that produce psychoactive effects, or a “high,” and can be consumed in various enjoyable forms. However, many consumers find that the qualities of that psychoactive experience can differ based on which cannabinoid you can choose. Likewise, customers report that both Delta 8 and Delta 9 have therapeutic effects for body and mind, though the specific types of effects can differ. 

Read on to learn everything you need to know about the difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC products. We’ll cover differences, similarities, and reported effects that can help you decide whether Delta 8 or Delta 9 is a better THC choice for you.

Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC: What They Are, and How They Work

Delta 9 THC is the psychoactive compound found in the marijuana plant, and it is responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use. Delta 9 THC also occurs in hemp, and Proleve partners with Barney’s Botanicals to offer hemp products with high concentrations of Delta 9 that are created in order to make the cannabis experience accessible to all. The Delta 9 high from our hemp products is essentially identical to the psychoactive effects produced by marijuana, since both owe their impact to the exact same cannabinoid--Delta 9 THC, which occurs identically in both marijuana and hemp. 

Delta 8 THC is another cannabinoid derived from hemp, and it has a similar structure and mechanism of action to Delta 9 THC, which is why it produces a similar psychoactive experience. Both Delta 8 and Delta 9 produce their mind-altering effects by binding with CB1 receptors in the brain, which can adjust perception, mood, thought, creativity, focus, and other aspects of your frame of mind. This binding action is also responsible for the impacts of Delta 8 and Delta 9 on sleep, appetite, and other aspects of our health.

What are the Differences Between Delta 8 and Delta 9? 

Delta 8: A Lower-Potency, Manageable, Stress-Free Alternative

While Delta 8 produces psychoactive effects, the “high” it elicits is typically thought to be less potent than the high associated with Delta 9. In a recent Forbes interview, Dr Gordon suggested that Delta 8 THC can be thought of as “about one-quarter to one-third less potent” than Delta 9--something to keep in mind if you’re trying to decide which cannabinoid to choose, or if you’re trying to adjust your Delta 8 dose based on Delta 9 experiences (or vice versa).

This can be advantageous for newcomers to psychoactive cannabis products, and for those who might experience anxiety when they use too much Delta 9. It can also be advantageous for those who enjoy a psychoactive experience, but want an option that doesn’t become too overpowering to go about your daily activities. 

According to a recent study, consumers reported that “experiences with Delta 8 were characterized predominantly by relaxation, pain-relief, and euphoria, with most participants saying they could perform their normal daily activities without side effects associated with [Delta 9] such as paranoia, anxiety, or the munchies.” Sometimes, consuming too much Delta 9 THC can produce anxiety, which is where Delta 8’s lower potency can become advantageous for those who struggle with this side effect. Participants in the study were asked to rate their levels of anxiety during the Delta 8 experience, and on average, responded that they experienced either no anxiety at all, or only a “little” feeling of being on edge.

According to the aforementioned study, participants reported the following benefits from Delta 8: 

• Pain and Inflammation Relief
• Sleep Support
• Reduced Stress
• Appetite support
• Physical and Mental Relaxation
• Improved Mood

And more. As you may have noticed, many of these therapeutic properties are similar to those associated with Delta 9, though some customers prefer Delta 9 for relieving more intense concerns, such as serious discomfort.

The Delta 8 High 

When it comes to the Delta 8 versus Delta 9 high, you can typically count on Delta 8 for a milder, more subtle experience that may be better for those seeking a mood-lift without compromising your ability to go about your regular activities. Delta 8 can provide what some describe as a more clear-headed high, allowing you to enjoy a psychoactive experience without becoming paranoid or overwhelmed.

Delta 9 THC: Potent, Cerebral Relief

Delta 9 is more potent, and the cerebral aspect of the “head high” that it produces is typically more pronounced than the experience of Delta 8. If you’re looking for a more fully pronounced, vivid psychoactive experience, Delta 9--or a higher dose of Delta 8--may be the best choice for you (though both cannabinoids are beloved for recreational purposes).

Since medical marijuana has been legalized in various parts of the country, there’s plenty of research to support Delta 9’s therapeutic properties. According to researchers, Delta 9 may help with: 

• Stress & Mood
• Inflammation & Discomfort
• Nerve Pain
• Sleep
• Appetite
• Nausea & Vomiting
• GI Issues

And other physical health concerns.

The Delta 9 High 

The high associated with Delta 9 is typically more pronounced, vivid, and cerebral. For this reason, it’s a good idea to start with a low dose if you’re new to Delta 9, since for inexperienced users, a stronger high can sometimes cause anxiety. However, as long as you find the right dose for you, Delta 9 is sure to produce recreational effects that customers love. 

The Delta 9 high is often described as powerfully psychoactive, characterized by euphoria, altered perception, and relaxation. Some describe the Delta 9 high as more “intense” and “robust,” calling it the “go-to for those seeking a potent and classic marijuana experience.” 

The Bottom Line: Delta 8 and Delta 9 Highs, Benefits, and Products

Both Delta 8 and Delta 9 are beloved for both recreational and therapeutic experiences, and often, the choice between them comes down to individual preference, and to the type of product you’re seeking. In fact, many of our customers love to indulge in both Delta 8 and Delta 9, and simply choose based on the occasion they’re seeking.

Our Delta 8 offerings include: 

• Vegan Delta 8 Gummies with 20 or 50mg Delta 8 THC, available in bottles or bulk at a discount.
• Terpene Infused Delta 8 THC Gummies, which incorporate cannabis compounds to offer strain-specific THC edible options, including energizing sativas; relaxing indicas; and balanced hybrids.
• Delta 8 Tinctures, which allow you to enjoy a long-lasting form of Delta 8 for sustained benefits.

Our Delta 9 products include: 

• Delta 9 Gummies, available in 10-count bags, 30-count bottles, or to purchase bulk at a discount.
• Delta 9 Baked Goods, including THC cookies, brownies, and cereal bars. These are available in 2-count packs or can be purchased in bulk at a discount.
• Delta 9 THC Syrups, which allow you to make THC drinks with various great-tasting flavor options. Like our gummeis and baked goods, our Delta 9 drinks can be purchased individually or in discounted bulk quantities.
• Delta 9 THC Shots, which contain 50mg Delta 9 in packets that can be sipped directly or mixed into a drink for an enjoyable, alcohol-free way to relax and unwind.