Since there are so many new cannabinoids being discovered and introduced in the market today, many people have difficulty keeping up with them and can get confused between them sometimes. In today’s blog, we’re going to focus on 2 cannabinoids which are Delta 8 and THC-O. 

This is because many people mix these two up because of their similarities. However, with the help of our blog, you won’t have to worry about mixing these two cannabinoids up, by finding out what these two cannabinoids are, how they’re made, what are their effects, and what other factors make them different from each other. 

What Is Delta 8?

Delta 8 is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in hemp in small traces. It has a similar molecular structure as its twin Delta 9 except its double bond falls on the 8th carbon chain instead of the 9th. Unlike Delta 9 which creates strong and intense psychoactive effects, Delta 8 creates mild psychoactive effects because it contains a lower amount of THC. 

Another reason that the potency of Delta 8 is lower than Delta 9’s potency is because of the difference in Delta 8’s molecular structure which causes it to have a lower affinity for the CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system. Delta 8 was first discovered in 1965 by Raphael Mechoulam, the same American chemist who first discovered Delta 9 in 1964. 

What Is THC-O?

THC-O, also known as THC-O Acetate is a synthetic cannabinoid that was entirely created in a lab with the help of scientific professionals. It was first discovered in 1978 by the U.S. DEA. It doesn’t occur naturally in hemp like other cannabinoids such as CBD, CBN, etc. THC-O also has a similar chemical or molecular structure as Delta 9’s molecular structure. 

This cannabinoid is considered to be much stronger than traditional weed. It also has a higher potency rate than other cannabinoids like Delta 8 and Delta 9, and it can create very strong and intense psychoactive effects. THC-O is also commonly sold in the form of products such as tinctures, oils, gummies, and distillates. 

Delta 8 Vs THC-O?

Here we have listed some key differences that both Delta 8 and THC-O have that can help you in being able to differentiate between them. They include:

• Potency 

THC-O is considered to be 5 times stronger and higher in potency than Delta 8 and 3 times stronger and higher in potency than Delta 9, which is why it can create very strong and intense psychoactive effects. Another reason is that THC-O is much easier for our bodies to use than other cannabinoids such as Delta 9 and Delta 8.  

Delta 8 has a lower potency rate than Delta 9 and THC-O which is why the psychoactive effects that this cannabinoid creates are mild. It’s also more suitable for people who don’t have very high tolerance levels but still want to enjoy that mild high. 

• Extraction Method

Delta 8 is extracted or produced through the process of extracting CBD oil from hemp and removing the Delta 8 cannabinoid from the oil. This is why Delta 8 can also be referred to as a synthetic cannabinoid. 

THC-O is extracted or produced through the process of extracting CBD from hemp and converting it into Delta 8 by removing the cannabinoid from the hemp-derived CBD. After that step is done, then acetic anhydride, a highly flammable chemical is added to the Delta 8 cannabinoid which can help convert it into THC-O cannabinoid. Don’t try this at home!

• Legal Status

Although the Delta 8 cannabinoid might be legal under Federal law, it is still considered illegal in 15 states of the US. Hence why it’s important that you try to check with the laws of the state that you live in before ordering the cannabinoid’s products.

THC-O on the other hand is considered legal in all of the states of the US under the 2018 Farm bill because it is derived from hemp despite being a synthetic cannabinoid.  Although it’s best to check the laws of your state for this cannabinoid as well because you never know when they could change. 

• The Amount Of Time The Effects Kick In And Last For

The effects of any cannabinoid can depend on the type of product you consume. For example, Delta 8 gummies take 60-90 minutes for the effects to kick in and they last for about 3-6 hours. When you vape Delta 8, the effects kick in after 10-15 minutes and they last for 4-6 hours. 

THC-O gummies on the other hand take 30 minutes for the effects to kick in and they last for at least 3-5 hours depending on how many you consume. The effects of vaping Delta 8 kick in after 15-20 minutes and they also last for 3-5 hours. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• What Is The Best Way To Consume THC-O?

The best way to consume THC-O is by vaping because not only can you fully enjoy the flavors of the cannabinoid but can also enjoy the effects that kick in quickly and last for a long time. 

• How Long Can THC-O Stay In Your System?

Depending on how often you consume THC-O, it can stay in your system for more than 3 weeks and is detectable in your hair for up to 90 days. 

• Can THC-O Make You Fail A Drug Test?

It’s quite possible for THC-O to make you fail a drug test, which is why you should wait until it leaves your system completely before taking a drug test. 

• How Long Does Delta 8 Stay In Your System?

Delta 8 can stay in your system for up to 3 days after consumption. 

• What Is The Cost Of Delta 8 Gummies?

Based on the amount that you want, the cost of Delta 8 gummies can be around $17-$45. 

The Final Verdict – Which One Is Safer For You?

Although both Delta 8 and THC-O carry psychoactive properties, they have different potencies and effects. This is why it’s been recommended that you should carefully choose which one of these two cannabinoids is better for you depending on your tolerance levels and preferences.

Related Articles: 

HHC Vs THC-O

Do Delta 8 THC Dabs Get Me High?

What Is Stronger CBD Or Delta 8?