THC Can be Made from Hemp! Delta-10 Vs Delta-8: What’s the Difference?
Dec 16, 2022
Next time you’re in the market for THC gummies or other THC-infused products, check the label. Is the THC Delta-8, Delta-9, or Delta 10? And what does that mean?
Delta-9 THC is the traditional form of THC that comes from the cannabis plant. Because traditional Delta-9 THC comes directly from whole cannabis, which is only legal in certain states, it is not available nationwide. Delta-9 THC can be derived from hemp, like Delta 8 and Delta 10, but its identical nature to the illegal Delta-9 compounds can make its contents in products complicated.
Enter two new players on the THC scene: Delta-8 and Delta-10. Both of these isomers* of THC are derived from CBD, which is federally legal. This means that in states where hemp is legal but marijuana is not, you can possibly still get the THC effects you’re looking for from either Delta-8 or Delta-10.
*An isomer is a compound that contains the exact same atoms as another, but arranged in a different way. Delta-8 and Delta-10 both contain 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms just like a traditional THC molecule, but they’re structurally “built differently” from Delta-9 THC.
What’s the Difference Between Delta-8 and Delta-10?
As discussed above, both Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC molecules are created in a lab, synthesized from hemp-derived CBD. While they both contain the same atoms in the same quantities as the THC found in marijuana, those atoms are arranged in a different way.
Chemical Structure
THC is made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10 differ specifically in the location of the double bond in the carbon chain. The name of each type of THC tells you where that double bond occurs– either on the 8th, 9th, or 10th carbon bond.
This difference in molecular structure translates into some interesting differences in the effects, cost, dosage, and legality of Delta 8 vs 10 or 9.
Effect Profile
Is Delta-8 or Delta-10 stronger? Arguably, Delta 8, though both are reported to have milder effects than that of traditional Delta-9 THC.
Users report that both Delta-8 and Delta-10 give them a euphoric feeling similar to that of traditional THC, but without the unease or “overly elevated” feeling that sometimes comes along with Delta-9.
While they both rate more mellow on the spectrum than Delta-9, there are also other aspects in how Delta-8 and Delta-10 can make you feel. So, what are Delta 10 vs Delta 8 differences?
Delta-8 tends to provide more of a relaxed or sleepy feeling. This is why some people consider it the “Indica” strain of hemp-derived THC. Many people prefer Delta-8 for various reasons, and it is recommended to be taken in the nighttime hours.
Delta-10 is more similar to a “Sativa” in that fans report it provides a more uplifting and motivating feeling. If you would like to use hemp-derived THC in the morning or throughout your work day, Delta-10 is probably a better choice.
Cost
Currently, Delta-10 is more expensive than Delta-8 THC, mostly due to the difficulty of its extraction.
Once production of Delta-10 THC ramps up and it becomes more readily available and in-demand, it is likely that the difference between Delta 8 and 10 in price will balance out a bit.
Dosage
How does the battle of Delta 10 THC vs Delta 8 THC wash out when it comes to dosage? Both of them have a standard dosage of 15-50 mg. Your dosage may be more or less than this depending on factors such as your size, weight, tolerance, and prior experience with THC.
If you’re new to Delta-8 or Delta-10 THC, start with a small dosage such as 10 mg and gradually build up until you reach your desired effects. If you are an experienced cannabis user, you may want to start with a higher dosage.
Legality
If you’re in a state where raw cannabis is illegal but you’re looking for the benefits of THC via a gummy, tincture, or vape, Delta-8 or Delta-10 may be your best bet.
Because hemp and hemp products are legal nationwide due to the 2018 Farm Bill, both Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC are considered federally legal.
However, because of concerns about the safety of the lab processes used to synthesize Delta-8 and Delta-10 from CBD, hemp-derived forms of these substances are actually banned in several states. Make sure you do your research prior to purchase to make sure that you are buying within the guidelines of your state laws.
What is Delta-10 vs Delta-8, Which is Better?
So which is better, Delta 8 or 10? It really depends upon your preference and goals for hemp-derived THC use. The handy chart below may help you decide.
Delta-10 vs. Delta-8
Delta-10 | Delta-8 | |
Effects | Uplifting, motivating | Relaxing, sleep-inducing |
Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |
Dosage | 10-50+ milligrams | 10-50+ milligrams |
Legality | Federally legal, but currently illegal in 11 states | Federally legal, but currently illegal in 17 states |
At Pharma CBD, you can find Delta-10 gummies vs Delta-8, even some THC blends, and many other safe and effective, quality hemp-derived THC products. Shop now!