For those seeking a good clean chill, Delta 9 THC is the thing to go for. This is a powerful THC type which is more effective and natural than Delta 8 THC, which can be best labeled a synthetically weaker cousin of the former.
In truth, Delta 8 THC is found naturally in cannabis, albeit in minute quantities. This is why many companies promote the synthetic formation, and because of that, this lesser known variety of THC is widely mislabeled as a synthetic variety.
How Delta 9 Is Superior
- It’s all natural, and most cannabis enthusiasts side with natural products. They buy quality stuff that’s organically grown as well as responsibly sourced. Due to this, they have qualms welcoming a synthetic version of something which has an almost perfect natural alternative.
- Potency is important, mainly when you’re talking about the finished THC product. It makes a great deal of sense to go with something you don’t need to take a lot of to start getting the desired result.
Delta 9 scores on both of the above counts, and delivers better benefits over Delta 8.
How The Two Differ (Extraction and Production)
The extraction process for Delta 9 and Delta 8 differ, and it’s not just in the simple extraction of molecules from the plants either (because that’s not how this works).
For example, Delta 9 starts in the cannabis plant as molecules of THCa, and it naturally turns into Delta 9 THC when the plant dries out or dies. The extraction part is consequently more natural, since there is no chemical catalyst involved.
Additionally, Delta 9 is found abundantly in hemp; so, it’s easier to extract, and economical when producing. Due to its potency, it easily leaves many regular Delta 9 THC users satisfied and wanting more later.
Meanwhile Delta 8 is borderline confusing, and there’s ample reason for that. It’s a less powerful form of THC that’s now being touted as a substitute for Delta 9; however, there is basically no comparison between the two.
The main deal is that while Delta 8 forms in hemp plants the same as Delta 9, it occurs in much smaller amounts, so extraction is rendered expensive and bothersome.
Most companies focus instead on Delta 9. However, since Delta 8 can be sourced from other cannabinoids as well, it poses an economical option where cannabis companies are concerned. All of that sounds good, but only until you find out how exactly Delta 8 is made.
It does not exist naturally in the sativa strain (at least not substantially), so you can’t extract large quantities of it without running a loss. So most companies introduce crystalene solvents in order to catalyze Delta 8 formation in labs. Some of said solvents have been shown to be really harmful to humans. But since this is cheaper to do, many companies pick this watered-down and consequently weaker THC version to add in their formulations.