Delta-8 and delta-9 are hot topics of conversation in the cannabinoid world, and now, a new tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) variant; delta-10, has people talking. The delta-10 vs. delta-8 debate has begun. We’re here to answer some common questions people have about the differences between the delta-10 vs the delta-8 THC variation.
Similar to the delta-8 and delta-9 discussions, people are unsure of the differences between delta-10 and delta-8. Two common questions are which one is stronger, and whether they are safe to use.
The reason for the confusion in the differences between delta-8, delta-9, and delta-10 lies in their similarities; they are all types of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This is the compound that gives users a high, euphoric feeling. Due to this, people have many questions about the different delta types and the varying effects and feelings people may experience from them.
Let’s explore exactly what delta-8 and delta-10 are. As well as the differences and similarities between them to determine which is stronger.
Table of Contents
What is Delta-8?
Delta-8 is one of the many compounds that is derived from the cannabis plant. It is marketed as a better THC version or a lighter weed and is sold in various forms, from edibles to vaping liquids. It is not hugely different from delta-9 in relation to its structure and its effects on users.
Where they differ is how they are produced. Delta-8 is a minor cannabinoid by comparison to delta-9. The cannabis plant does not produce much natural delta-8 and extracting it can prove more difficult than extracting other cannabinoids.
However, there are other methods of producing delta-8 that enable people to create delta 8 products easier. In other words, solvents can be used to synthesize delta-8 from CBD. Given that, a lot of delta 8 products actually come from the hemp plant as opposed to the cannabis plant.
Along with it being easier to create products, this also helps to ensure the THC levels remain at the legal limit. Beyond the extraction processes, delta-8 is said to give users a much calmer experience than delta-9. Users have said it does give them a high but one without feelings of stress, paranoia, or panic.
Delta-8 also works a lot slower than delta-9, which means the effects are a lot more gradual.
What is Delta-10?
Now that you know what delta-8 is, let’s explore the new variant, delta-10. Similar to delta-8, delta-10 is found in cannabis plants; both in hemp and marijuana strains. It differs from delta-9 in that it appears in very little amounts.
However, it is similar to delta-8 in this way since this makes it difficult to extract and create delta-10 products. There has not been a huge amount of research conducted on delta-10. In saying that, it is likely it will interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) similarly to how other THC compounds do.
You are probably wondering if delta-10 can make you feel high, and the answer is yes, it certainly can. However, the high feeling does differ from that of delta-9 and delta-8. Unlike delta-9, which is very intense, delta-8 has a much lower potency.
Therefore, people consider it similar and comparable to delta-8; in that it provides that feeling while stopping feelings of anxiety or paranoia coming through. It is also said to enhance focus. However, further research is required to make this a conclusive determination.
Differences between Delta-10 and Delta-8
Now that you know what delta-10 and delta-8 are and some of their characteristics, let’s explore the differences between delta-10 and delta-8 below.
How they are extracted contrasts
One of the main differences between delta-10 and delta-8 is the extraction process. Delta-8 is found in the hemp plant. In saying that, it is usually discovered in minimal amounts. This means businesses that wish to produce delta-8 products usually need to extract it from hemp-derived CBD.
People do so by using solvents and chemical processes. This ensures that they can create the products without incurring a huge cost. On the other hand, it is usually not easy to find delta-10 in natural cannabis plants.
Similar to delta-8, if you do, it is in minimal amounts which makes it challenging to create delta-10 products. Therefore, businesses usually create products by utilizing CBD isolate or raw hemp extract. They then use various derivatives, solvents, acids, and additives to make delta-10 products.
The structure of THC compounds vary
Delta-10’s structure is not very different from delta-9 or delta-8’s. The only contrast is the C=C double bond is situated differently in the structural makeup. This means they interact with the receptors in the ECS in different ways.
The way delta-9’s are placed enhances how it binds to receptors. Delta-8 and delta-9, for this reason, are considerably less reactive to the receptors. This means they are less potent and intense than delta-9.
The effects they provide are different
It should come as no surprise that all of the THC compounds have the ability to make us feel high. In saying that, the intensity of this euphoric feeling varies for the three compounds – delta-8, delta-9, and delta-10.
Users of delta-9 have confirmed this high can come with feelings of paranoia and anxiety. In addition, side effects such as headaches, a dip in mood, and for some, hallucinations. Delta-10 and delta-8, on the other hand, are said to give users a milder high.
Delta-8 is thought to provide a calm high where people do not feel paranoid or anxious. They are said to still be able to think clearly and feel relaxed. The only side effect reported has been an increase in hunger after taking delta-8.
Delta-10 is said to be even milder than delta-8, being comparable to a Sativa. It is less potent which could be the reason for its milder euphoric feeling. Users claim it enhances focus and allows them to get creative and go about daily activities.
The high feeling is very weak with delta-10 and enables relaxation just as delta-8 does. However, delta-8 has been claimed to be better as a sleep aid than delta-10 or delta-9.
More research has been conducted on delta-8
Another difference between delta-8 and delta-10 is there has been more research conducted on delta-8 currently. This is not hugely surprising since delta-10 is relatively new to the scene. It is not unknown that it takes time to research cannabinoids and even more research needs to be done on delta-8 and even CBD.
However, with time the amount of research on delta-10 is likely to change as more clinical studies are conducted.
Delta-8 is likely easier to find on the market
As mentioned previously, delta-10 is a lesser studied cannabinoid that’s uses and effects are only beginning to be researched. Therefore, it is likely that delta-8 products are easier to find on the market. This is because many businesses are still in the stage of creating their own delta 10 formulas and preparing to launch at a later point.
How are Delta-8 and Delta-10 similar?
While they do have their differences, delta-8 and delta-10 also have similarities. The main one being that they interact with the ECS in the same way. Both bind to the central nervous system’s receptors and interact with CBD2 receptors.
In addition to the way in which both forms of THC interact with the ECS, they also both give users a high feeling. For both, this high comes without feelings of anxiety or paranoia. Delta-8 and delta-9 are also similar in that it is not easy to extract them straight from the plant.
What are the benefits of Delta-10 and Delta-8?
Now that you know how the two compounds differ and their similarities, let’s discuss what the benefits are of taking them. Delta-10 is relatively new so for that reason, many of the benefits are anecdotal claims from users. Below we will share the benefits of both delta-8 and delta-10.
Delta-8 could enhance relaxation
The high which delta-8 provides is said to encourage the user to relax and reduce their stress levels. Delta-8 is also said to make people feel sleepy meaning it could potentially help people to get a good night’s sleep. The ECS is in charge of regulating a wide range of functions. These include mood, appetite, and sleep.
Delta-8 interacts with the ECS so it seems likely it could certainly have a calming effect on users. In turn, this could possibly enhance their mood and aid in better sleep.
Delta-8 may reduce inflammation and discomfort
Users of delta-8 have claimed their reason for using it is to minimise discomfort. Beyond anecdotal evidence, research has also claimed it could be beneficial for those dealing with aches as well as inflammation. A study from 2018 discovered delta-8 THC reduced corneal inflammation and pain.
Therefore, delta-8 may prove useful to those looking to minimise inflammation and discomfort. However, more research does need to be done to confirm its effectiveness with other types of pain.
Delta-10 might enhance focus
Users of delta-10 have claimed the euphoric feeling the compound provides has improved their focus and creativity. However, it is new so there is not much research to back this up. Research is definitely needed to determine how delta-10 could affect users positively.
Delta-10 could boost energy levels
Another anecdotal claim about delta-10 is that it boosts energy levels. While there is no research to back this up, it does interact with the ECS just as delta-8 does. This system is responsible for regulating sleep, mood, and appetite which all affect our energy levels.
Therefore, if it improves sleep, mood, and appetite, you may see your energy levels rise as a result. However, research is needed to confirm whether or not delta-10 will boost energy levels.
Delta-8 might improve cognitive function
While there is not much research to back this up, it has been suggested delta-8 may enhance cognitive function. In other words, it could potentially improve memory. This could be possible given that it interacts with the ECS which also regulates memory.
In saying that, more research is needed to confirm whether or not it does enhance cognitive function.
Delta-8 may increase appetite
Depending on your own situation, this could be a benefit or a disadvantage. Users of delta-8 have claimed they feel hungrier after taking it. In addition, research has suggested low doses of delta-8 encourage an increase in food consumption.
Not to mention, the ECS regulates appetite which delta-8 interacts with. Therefore, it could possibly increase your appetite. However, it may also depend on the individual.
Is Delta-10 stronger than Delta-8?
Knowing the benefits of both delta-10 and delta-8, you are probably wondering now which is stronger. The answer seems to be leaning towards delta-8. The euphoric feeling it gives users is more intense than that of delta-10 even though it is mild.
When compared to both delta-8 and delta-9, which is known to be the most intense, it is certainly the lightest. In addition, it seems to be the best option if you want to still go about your daily life. While delta-8 does not make users feel paranoid or anxious either, it can make people feel sleepy or tired.
By contrast, delta-10 is said to enhance focus and energy levels, enabling users to get creative and go about their day. Both provide similar effects, it really depends on what you are looking for. If you want something to help you relax and sleep, delta-8 may be best for instance.
On the other hand, if you are looking to improve your focus and concentration to get things done, delta-10 may be a better option. Both are very mild when compared to delta-9.
Are there any side effects to Delta-8 or Delta-10?
There is very little research on delta-10 so for that reason, no side effects have been reported. However, delta-8 has been around longer so research has been conducted on this compound. Some of the side effects reported of delta-8 include:
- Dry eyes and mouth
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Stress
- Lack of coordination
In saying that, these side effects usually occur if you take more than is recommended. However, you should still steer on the side of caution. It is likely that delta-10 has similar or the same side effects since these are common with other cannabinoids.
Delta-10 vs Delta-8 – are they legal in the UK?
It is uncertain as to whether delta-8 is legal in the UK. Delta-8 and delta-9 are both considered controlled substances which would technically designate them illegal.
CBD is legal in the UK so long as it is extracted from hemp. In saying that, delta-8, due to its nature, is made by making a synthetic form of D8 which is extracted from CBD. There is no mention of delta-8 in the UK law or on the UK’s drug licensing factsheet.
This means it is not categorised as an exempt product like CBD is. In saying that, due to the psychoactive effect it provides users, it is safe to presume it is illegal until further information regarding this becomes available. For that reason, it is likely that delta-10 is also prohibited in the UK.
However, the Cannabinoid market is not thoroughly regulated and for that reason, some UK websites may sell delta-8 and delta-10 products. Therefore, as a consumer, you should be aware that these products may be of questionable quality. So, it may be best to avoid them until you find out more regarding delta-8 and delta-10’s legal status.
Are Delta-8 and Delta-10 safe to use?
It is very difficult to determine whether or not delta-8 and delta-10 are safe to use. Their legal status and the unregulated market play into this. Unlike CBD, there are no specific regulations around delta-8 and delta-10.
With CBD products, third-party lab testing is required among other things to confirm that the THC levels meet the recommended amount and that there are no harmful chemicals in the product. Since there are no regulations around delta-8 and delta-10, the products may be of questionable quality.
For this reason, they may not be safe to use. Harmful chemicals may have been added in and they may contain too much THC. In addition, since testing is not a requirement, it may not have been completed.
When you purchase CBD products, you can usually view the Certificate of Analysis (COA) on the product page. This tells you exactly what is in the product. It is likely delta products will not have a COA which means you may not know what is in the product.
As a consumer, it is essential to know this. Therefore, we would recommend that it is best to avoid delta products until more information is available. Regulations are needed to ensure consumers are receiving safe delta products.
In summary
When it comes to which is better, delta-10 vs delta-8, it is not an easy question to answer. This is because it all depends on what effects you want. Delta-8 is said to be stronger than delta-10 offering a high that relaxes and calms you, making you feel even a bit sleepy.
Therefore, if you are having sleep difficulties or want to reduce your stress levels, delta-8 may be better for you. On the other hand, delta-10 is milder and said to encourage focus, concentration, and creativity. Therefore, if you are looking for these effects while going about your daily life without feeling sleepy, delta-10 could be the better choice.
Both are said to come without the paranoia and anxiety that delta-9 supposedly provides. In saying that, due to the uncertainty of their legal status, some products may not meet the mark. If delta-8 and delta-10 are legal in your country, it is crucial to thoroughly research the products before purchasing.
