Delta 8 vs Delta 10: What You Need to Know
Are you trying to decide between Delta 8 and Delta 10? Read on for a quick look at the benefits of each of these cannabinoids.
Ever since the 2018 Farm Bill legalized most hemp products, companies have been trying to sell many products related to the plant. Delta-8 and delta-10 are two such examples of extracts one can pull out of hemp and are now sold in many shops across the United States. So, what even are these chemicals and what is the difference between them?
This article exists to help you learn about what these extracts are and the advantages of each. As you read through, you will discover the differences between them and where each one comes from, to help you understand which would be best to use.
What Is Delta-8?
Much like delta-9 THC, delta-8 is a chemical derived from the cannabis plant. While it uses the same atoms as delta-9, its atoms are arranged in a different structure, giving it different qualities.
Delta-8 only appears in very small amounts in cannabis. Because of this, it is more likely that people will manufacture it rather than extract it from the plant. Despite this, the effects of synthetic THC over natural are not well-documented yet.
Delta-8 is in use by many people as a medication for several reasons. Most of these relate to mental health, such as:
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Depression
- Panic attacks
- Stress-related tension
The people who take delta-8 for these purposes do not do so as a part of prescribed medical treatment. Delta-8 does not yet have approval from the FDA for use as a prescription medicine and is illegal in many states.
What Is Delta-10?
Much like delta-8, delta-10 is another form of THC found within cannabis plants. Once again, it has a different chemical structure from delta-9 but uses the same atoms in its creation.
Like delta-8, most people create delta-10 through a chemical process. One can alter the delta-9 molecules through reactions to produce a different type of THC.
The psychoactive effects of delta-10 are lower than both delta-8 and delta-9. This makes it great for people wanting to try out cannabis-related products for the first time. Though, it is much harder to find as fewer products use this chemical over delta-8 or others.
Much like delta-8, delta-10 is not regulated on a federal level. As such, you will have to look at the laws of the individual state you are in to work out if it is illegal to own.
What Is the Chemical Difference Between the Two?
Without a deep understanding of chemistry, it might be hard to wrap your head around what makes these extracts so different. While they are all varieties of THC, they all have subtle differences in their chemical structures. While to the casual observer, it does not seem like much, it can make all the difference to your body when it comes to its absorption.
Delta-8 and delta-10 (and delta-9) are THC isomers. This means they are all THC molecules, with a small rearrangement of the atoms. This rearrangement revolves around where there is a "double bond" between two atoms. A double bond is where two carbon atoms share two electrons.
When scientists describe THC's structure, they assign a number to each carbon atom in its form. As such, they have a way of describing where the atoms with the double bond are:
- Delta-8's double bond is between Carbon atoms 8 and 9
- Delta-9's double bond is between Carbon atoms 9 and 10
- Delta-10's double bond is between Carbon atoms 10 and 10a
Now, there is more information this article could list, such as why there is a 10 and 10a. Though, for this article, it is not important. All you need to know is the names of delta-8 and delta-10 describe where this double-bond is in the molecule.
What Are the Advantages of Each One?
It would be wrong to say either delta-8 or delta-10 is inherently better than the other. There are differences, though, which could cause you to choose one of the two when it comes to finding a product you enjoy.
Some of the comparisons one could make include:
Potency
In short, delta-8 is much more potent than delta-10. The mind-altering effects of delta-8 last a much greater time, allowing you to use them to your advantage for longer.
But, if you are searching for a starter THC, delta-10 might be easier for you to handle. You can stop experiencing its effects faster if you do not enjoy them, and it will be easier to measure out smaller doses.
While the side effects of delta-8 are far reduced from its more potent delta-9, they still exist. These can include an increase in your anxiety, a dry mouth, or even a loss of memory in some cases. Thus, if the side effects of delta-8 are too much, you can always use delta-10 to have a milder buzz with fewer nasty surprises.
Drug Tests
Both of these products are varieties of THC. While they may not be as likely to appear as delta-9, each one is visible on a test up to 90 days after use. If you overdo it, either of them may appear for even longer, so be careful if you know you have a job where this might happen.
Medical Use
Neither delta-8 nor delta-10 has received approval from the FDA for use in medical contexts. As such, if you want to use either form of THC this would be a case of self-medication.
Talk to a medical professional before you explore this route, as they may have concerns depending on many different factors. Examples include whether you already take medication, or if you have conditions the drug may impact negatively.
Find Delta-8 Products To Suit Your Needs
Now that you know all this, you might have an interest in picking up products with delta-8 or delta-10 in them. Luckily for you, we can get you as much delta-8 as you want.
Our shop has a wide range of products, each with varying amounts of delta-8 in them. You can pick up disposable vapes, gummies, or many other items. So, check out what we offer and find what appeals to you today.
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