Cannabis needs no introduction. Humans have used extracts from this herb from time immemorial in treating numerous medical problems.
The specific compounds in marijuana that account for the plant’s healing benefits are known as phytocannabinoids or simply cannabinoids. Scientific research has found that weed contains more than 120 cannabinoids.
Besides their therapeutic benefits, certain cannabinoids also contain psychoactive properties. In this article, we focus on two cannabinoids in marijuana – delta-8 and delta-10.
Read for a definitive comparison between these potent cannabis compounds.
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What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly shortened to delta 8 THC or simply delta 8, is a naturally-occurring cannabinoid in cannabis plants best known for being a derivative of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Tetrahydrocannabinol is one of the two most popular and widely-studied phytocannabinoids in marijuana, the other one being cannabidiol (CBD).
As with all other cannabinoids in weed, tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol boast incredible healing benefits. Both compounds pack analgesic abilities, neuroprotective properties, calming effects, etc.
The main difference between these two cannabinoids is that THC contains additional psychotropic properties. Besides, the compound exists in isomers.
Isomerism is a phenomenon whereby two or more compounds have the same chemical formula but differ in their molecular structure. Isomers are sometimes also known as analogs.
Delta-9 is the most popular tetrahydrocannabinol isomer. However, THC exists in other lesser-popular analogs, such as delta 8 and delta 10.
What are the uses of Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 is a psychoactive cannabinoid. That means you can use the compound both medicinally and recreationally.
Whichever way you plan to use delta 8 THC, you must begin by consulting a licensed medical cannabis doctor. Based on your medical history, the medic’s opinion will be instrumental in preapproving you for delta 8 use.
What are the benefits of Delta 8 THC?
The term ‘benefit,’ concerning cannabinoids, typically denotes the potential therapeutic properties these compounds may contain. Numerous studies have shown that delta-8 could impact the endocannabinoid system in a manner that offers diverse pharmacological applications.
Note that the health benefits of delta-8 are essentially those of tetrahydrocannabinol. That’s for the simple reason that this cannabinoid is a THC derivative.
Pain Relief
Pain relief is arguably the biggest reason to consider integrating delta-8 into your health and wellness routine. Delta 8 products mainly relieve pain by benumbing pain-signaling receptors.
Stress Reliever
You may also use delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol as a stress reliever. Medical research suggests that delta 8 goods may relieve stress by improving the signaling of ‘feel-good’ chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. The compound’s relaxing effects are also due to its inhibitory effects on cortisol, the primary stress hormone.
Help in Other medical problems
Other medical problems you can mitigate using delta-8 supplements include fatigue, insomnia, inflammation, nausea, and inappetence.
What are the effects of Delta 8 THC?
As a psychedelic compound, delta-8 produces feelings of happiness and euphoria. Many users cite amusement and mental relaxation as the overall effects of a delta-8 high.
But perhaps the best way to gauge the effects of delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol is to compare it with the more popular THC analog – delta-9. Anecdotal evidence suggests that delta-8 is about half as potent as delta-9.
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What is Delta 10 THC?
Delta 10 tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly abbreviated as delta 10 THC or delta 10, is another lesser-popular tetrahydrocannabinol isomer. The compound shares the same chemical formula with delta 8, except that they differ in their molecular and chemical structure.
What does the number 10 denote in delta-10 THC?
The big difference between delta 8 and delta 10 relates to the position of the double bond in these cannabinoids’ molecular structures. Delta 10 has its double bond located in the 10th link in the compound’s carbon chain, while the double bond for delta 8 occurs in the 8th link in the carbon chain.
However, these seemingly subtle differences translate to significant differences in the overall effects of both cannabinoids.
What are the uses of Delta 10 THC?
Delta 10 comes from the same parent cannabinoid as delta 8 – tetrahydrocannabinol. So, like delta-8, you can use delta-10 for its medical benefits and psychoactive effects.
Also, as already mentioned, it’s best to consult a medical professional before administering delta 10 products. This is especially necessary if you’re already on other prescription medications.
What are the benefits of Delta 10 THC?
Delta-10 possesses the fundamental traits of tetrahydrocannabinol. That’s especially if viewed in terms of its pharmacological benefits.
First off, you can use delta-10 in treating pain. Much like delta-8, delta-10 exerts its analgesic effects by desensitizing certain cannabinoid receptors in transmitting pain signals across the body.
You could also use delta-10 supplements in treating inflammation. These products alleviate inflammation by reducing the production of various inflammatory markers, such as chemokines and cytokines.
Stress and anxiety are other common medical issues you may address using delta-10 goods. Delta-10 packs sedative effects that may come in handy in reducing stress, anxiety, and even depression.
Delta-10 products also boast antiemetic and appetite-stimulating properties. That’s due to their ability to interact positively with specific cannabinoid receptors and neurotransmitters that regulate hunger feelings and food drive.
Last but not least, delta-10 may produce uplifting effects, albeit not as powerful as delta-8.
What are the effects of Delta 10 THC?
The fact that delta-10 is an isomer of marijuana’s most psychoactive substance implies that the compound also contains some psychoactive properties. Therefore, you’re likely to become high from consuming significant amounts of delta-10 products.
Dose for dose, however, delta-10 produces considerably lower euphoric effects than delta-9 and delta-10. It’s the least potent product of the three THC isomers.
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Difference Between Delta 8 and Delta 10: The Famous Cannabis Plants Compounds
The principal difference between delta 8 and delta 10 relates to the intensity of their psychoactive effects. Both delta 8 and delta 10 will cause a euphoric high. However, delta 10 generally induces a mild euphoria compared to delta 8.
Delta 10’s milder effects on the psyche explain why the compound has experienced an explosion in popularity in the recent past. Users can administer the compound to treat various ailments without the nagging fear of incapacitation.
Which Is Safer: Delta 8 THC or Delta 10 THC?
Both delta 8 and delta 10 are considered safe. That’s especially if compared to the more potent tetrahydrocannabinol isomer – delta-9. The two compounds also provide more or less the same potential benefits.
However, choosing between delta 8 and delta 10 may prove a bit of a challenge for beginners. To go about it, you’ll need to determine whether you’re looking for medical marijuana products specifically for therapeutic applications or for recreational use.
Delta 8 packs more cannabinoids than delta 10. Therefore, the former would be preferable if you’re primarily interested in marijuana’s healing properties. On the flip side, delta 8 has a higher potency than delta 10. While the implication is that the compound can produce more energizing effects, you’re more likely to become intoxicated.
Delta 10 has fewer cannabinoids than delta 8. That’s a potential drawback if you seek to use the compound mainly for disease treatment. However, delta 10 produces a milder high and a generally more pleasant psychoactive effect than delta 8. That makes the compound especially suitable for new marijuana users or those opposed to the intoxicating properties of cannabis plants.
Which Is More Potent: Delta 8 THC Or Delta 10 THC?
We’ve already compared the relative potency between delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC and established that delta 8 is the more potent of the two cannabinoids. The difference in potency between delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC is why the two compounds do not produce the same effects on the psyche.
However, we should also reiterate that various other factors may determine whether a cannabinoid produces mild effects or dramatic reactions. Common ones include the percentage of the compound in a product, the extraction method used, and the number of impurities present in a product.
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Dosage: Delta 8 THC vs. Delta 10 THC
When it comes to delta 8 THC, delta 10 THC, or any cannabis product, there’s no such thing as a standard dosage. The right amount of delta 8 or delta 10 to consume would depend on the following factors;
· Age
· Body weight
· Body chemistry aspects, such as metabolic rate
· Tolerance and experience levels
· Delivery method
· Average cannabinoid potency in a product
· The severity of the disease you’re trying to treat
· Expected psychoactive properties
However, the fact that delta 8 THC has a relatively high potency than delta 10 THC means you’d need considerably lower amounts of delta 8 to achieve the same effects as delta 10.
If you’re new to both compounds, the conventional wisdom is to begin low and build momentum slowly. You can start with as low as 5 milligrams (mg) of either cannabinoid per serving. Monitor how your body interacts with the compound before possibly upping your doses.
Is Delta 8 THC better than Delta 10 THC? Psychoactive Effects and Other Potential Benefits
The best way to answer this question is to look back at the psychoactive effects and potential benefits of both delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC.
Delta 10 produces mild psychoactive effects compared to delta 8. Therefore, the former cannabinoid is easier on the psyche and highly recommended for people looking for more tolerable cannabis high.
On the flip side, delta 8 THC has a higher concentration of cannabinoids. You’d need significantly lower doses of this compound to treat a disease than its delta 10 THC counterpart.
The differences in medicinal properties and psychoactive effects between delta 8 and delta 10 are why many users combine the two cannabinoids.
Top Delta 8 Products on the Market
The medical marijuana market teems with all manner of delta 8 THC goods. Depending on the intended delivery methods, these products typically come in various formulations.
Popular options include the following;
1. Pre-rolls
Humans have smoked cannabis for hundreds of years. Smoking remains one of the most popular ways to consume marijuana extracts like delta 8 THC.
Smokable delta 8 products are mainly available as pre-rolls.
2. Vape Products
Most cannabis users who’re wary of the inherent smoking risks prefer vaping marijuana. That’s because vaping doesn’t involve smoke production. Therefore, vapers don’t have to worry about inhaling toxin-laden smoke.
The good news is that you can use numerous delta 8 THC vapes. Examples include delta 8 concentrates and e-liquids.
3. Tinctures
Delta 8 THC may also come in the form of tinctures. These products are essentially cannabis oil intended for sublingual administration. To consume delta 8 tinctures, drip a few drops underneath your tongue, allow for a few minutes and then swallow.
You’ll feel the same euphoria as if you consumed the compound by other methods. The difference is that sublingual administration has a relatively faster onset time than standard edibles.
4. Edibles
The cannabis edibles market is a booming business. That’s mainly due to the wide range of products in this category.
Popular examples of delta 8 THC edibles include delta 8 gummies, candies, chocolates, and baked goods. You could also opt for delta 8 herbal teas.
5. Topicals
Topicals are popular among cannabis users who wish to enjoy the herb’s beneficial effects without fully introducing it into their body’s endocannabinoid system.
These products let you use cannabinoids like delta 8 THC to address localized problems, such as joint pain and inflammation. Delta 8 topicals are typically available as creams, ointments, bath bombs, shampoos, etc.
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Where to buy Delta 8 and Delta 10 from?
There’s no shortage of marijuana outlets where you can buy both delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC. The challenge usually lies in establishing that a delta 8 or delta 10 product is high quality before purchasing it.
First, you’ll need to determine whether you’re looking for cannabis for medical or recreational use. As you shall find, most recreational cannabis goods usually contain decent amounts of delta-9. That’s due to these cannabinoids’ immense euphoric effects.
Next, conduct more research on a brand to establish its credibility. Opt for companies with at least five years of experience and scores of positive third-party reviews.
Another best practice when shopping for delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC is to insist on lab-tested supplements. Ensure the products come with lab reports that qualify them as safe for use.
Lastly, establish how the cannabinoid was obtained from the cannabis plant. The extraction method will help you determine whether the delta 8 THC or 10 THC you’re about to purchase is a natural or synthetically derived cannabinoid.
Are Delta 8 THC and Delta 10 THC legal?
The signing into law of the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived products across all states in the United States. The only caveat is that such products must not contain more than 0.3% delta-9 THC.
The hemp plant is a cannabis cultivar noted for its higher concentration of cannabidiol than tetrahydrocannabinol.
Incidentally, delta 8 and delta 10 are typically synthesized from hemp-derived cannabidiol. The fact that these cannabinoids come from hemp-derived CBD makes them legal.
However, note that cannabis state laws differ. So, establish weed’s legal status in your state before shopping for delta 8 or delta 10. And the same logic should apply if you’re based outside the US.
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How much do Delta 8 THC and Delta 10 cost?
Delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC are available in various formulations. The cost of these cannabinoids will vary considerably depending on their preparation. For instance, delta 8 edibles typically cost $0.015 per milligram, while delta 8 vape cartridges cost $37 per gram.
All other factors held constant; delta 10 products would cost slightly less than their delta 8 counterparts. That’s due to their lower potency.
Note, however, that the price of delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC would still depend on the brand and whether you’re purchasing these products online or from a physical store.
Cannabis supplements are generally cheaper online than in brick-and-mortar outlets. But if you’re ordering delta 8 or delta 10 from an overseas seller, the shipping fees may increase the final price.
Will I fail a drug taste if I take Delta 8 & Delta 10?
Most drug tests screen for the presence of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol. Therefore, you’ll not fail a drug test if your delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC products contain only trace amounts of delta-9 THC. But there’s a catch.
Since delta 8, delta 10, and delta 9 come from the same parent cannabinoid, there’s a decent chance that your delta 8 and delta 10 products could be laced with worrying concentrations of delta 9. In this case, you would quickly fail a drug screening and suffer the attended consequences.
The best way to pass a drug test if you’re a frequent delta 8 or delta 10 user is to stop consuming these compounds completely. You could also opt for a detox plan. That’s especially if the test is sudden and you cannot wean off the effects of delta 8 or delta 10 from your body the natural way.
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Conclusion
Both delta 8 THC and delta 10 THC can offer immense therapeutic benefits through their positive effects on the endocannabinoid system. However, delta 10 is preferable for its less intense psychoactive effects.
Whichever product you choose, be sure to conduct some research to establish that it meets the minimum threshold for safety and efficacy. Remember to apply the same trick to any compound derived from the cannabis plant.
Reference Links:
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cannabis-marijuana-and-cannabinoids-what-you-need-to-know/
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/16/style/self-care/cbd-oil-benefits.html/
https://news.green-flower.com/articles-health-benefits-of-thc/
https://leafwell.com/blog/delta-8-vs-delta-9-vs-delta-10/
