Delta 8 versus Delta 9: What's the difference?

With all the cannabinoid terminology floating around out there you might find yourself struggling to keep up with the latest rhetoric and updates. For many people understanding the difference between Delta 8 and Delta 9 might seem overwhelming! That’s totally normal, but since it’s such an important distinction we thought we could help lay out the ground work.

Read on to learn more about the differences between Delta 8 and Delta 9 and to feel empowered during your next Delta 8 shopping experience!


Delta 9 is what most people think of when they think of illicit cannabis. Delta 9 is a cannabanioid that is abundant in cannabis flowers. We’ve referenced in past articles that the Farm Bill legalized industrial hemp but did not legalize cannabis. This is an important distinction because, since Delta 9 is sourced from cannabis flower exclusively it is not able to be legally sold. Delta 9 is not federally legal- although trace amounts under 0.3% THC levels are admissible when cultivating industrial grade hemp!

Delta 8 is another cannabinoid, but while Delta 9 is a major cannabinoid Delta 8 is a minor cannabinoid. This means it is found in substantially lesser quantities in cannabis flower and hemp. However, over the last few years, scientists have actually discovered a way to synthesize Delta 8 from industrial grade hemp (less than 0.3% THC) in a way that is efficient!

So, that’s the story of how Delta 8 became legalized. Using Industrial grade hemp that’s created under the 0.3% THC threshold.

The effects of Delta 8 versus Delta 9 are still being tested. But, it’s safe to say that Delta 9 is thought to be more potent and have a stronger effect on the body overall. Delta 9 can lead to more intense consumer side effects; like paranoia, anxiety, mental fog and impaired motor skills.

Delta 8 also produces a high and a sense of euphoria- just without the intense negative side effects. According to some reports from users delta 8 works slowly and more subtly to produce a gradual high.

Delta 8 is legal in North Carolina - but there are some states where the cannabinoid is illegal or under review. Before purchasing Delta 8 make sure to check that it is legal to purchase in the state where you reside.

There’s a ton of potential benefits to Delta 8. To learn more about our array of Delta 8 products and our shipping options check out our online storefront and search for “Delta 8”. Hemp Farmacy is always the highest quality products with third lab testing results available for review online! Shop everything from Delta 8 tinctures to gummies. Shoppers must be at least 21 years of age to purchase delta-8 THC. Enjoy responsibly!