With the growing popularity of hemp-derived products like CBD, innovative cannabis companies have found ways to produce different cannabinoids from hemp. Two of the most popular new cannabinoids are THC O and delta 8.
Both THC O and Delta 8 produce psychoactive effects, but they have some key differences in potency, effects, benefits, legality and more. This guide examines how THC O and delta-8 stack up against each other to help you decide which is better for your needs.
What is THC-O?
THC-O, short for tetrahydrocannabinol-O-acetate, is a synthetic cannabinoid made from hemp-derived CBD. It goes through a conversion and acetylation process to produce the final THC-O compound.
The key attributes of THC-O include:
- Synthetic – Not found naturally in cannabis plants
- More potent than delta-9 THC
- Psychedelic-like effects
- Legality questionable (may be illegal per DEA)
What is Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that is found in small traces in hemp and cannabis plants. Concentrated delta-8 products are typically made by chemically converting CBD into delta-8 THC.
The key attributes of delta-8 include:
- Naturally occurring cannabinoid
- About half as potent as delta-9 THC
- Provides a mild and euphoric high
- Federally legal but banned in some states
THC-O vs Delta-8: Key Differences
| Attribute | THC-O | Delta-8 |
|---|---|---|
| Potency | Much more potent, up to 3x stronger effects | Milder potency, about half as strong as delta-9 |
| Effects | Psychedelic, spiritual, introspective | Relaxing, euphoric, clear-headed high |
| Benefits | Recreational use, meditative aid | Therapeutic uses like anxiety relief |
| Legality | Federally illegal per DEA | Federally legal but restricted in some states |
While THC-O and delta-8 share some similarities, their potency, effects and legal status set them far apart.
Which Cannabinoid is Better?
For recreational use, THC-O provides a stronger, more psychedelic high preferred by some seasoned cannabis enthusiasts. However, THC-O’s hazy legal status makes it riskier to use than federally compliant delta-8 products.
For therapeutic effects like anxiety and nausea relief, delta-8 is the better choice. Its mild psychoactivity makes it more suitable for new users as well. Just ensure delta-8 is legal in your state before purchasing.
The Takeaway
THC-O and delta-8 present cannabis consumers with more choice than ever before. While intriguing, THC-O has concerning health risks and legal issues still to be resolved. Delta-8 offers a federally legal way to enjoy mild cannabis benefits, but confirm your state’s laws permit its sale and use.
Hopefully this breakdown has helped clarify the pros, cons and key differences between these two popular hemp cannabinoids. Let us know in the comments if you have any other questions!
frequently asked questions:
What’s better delta-8 or THC-O?
For most consumers, delta-8 THC is the better option over THC-O. Delta-8 provides a mild euphoric high that many find suitable for relaxation and anxiety relief. It’s federally legal and available in regulated products from reputable brands. THC-O is more potent and psychedelic, but has concerning health risks from conversion chemicals used in production. THC-O also has questionable legal status that puts buyers at further risk.
How strong is THC-O?
THC-O is considered very potent, with some reports estimating it provides effects 3 times as strong as delta-9 THC. However the limited data makes it hard to quantify THC-O’s exact potency. Users are wise to exercise extreme caution with dosage when trying THC-O products. Starting small is key.
What is the strongest THC variant?
Currently most evidence suggests THC-P is the most potent THC variant discovered so far. Early studies found THC-P to have 33 times the binding affinity of delta-9 THC, making it theorhetically much more potent. However THC-P is highly experimental and not available in commercial products yet.
Is Delta-10 stronger than THC-O?
No, Delta-10 THC is significantly less potent than THC-O according to user reports. Delta-10 provides psychoactive effects between delta-8 and delta-9 THC, while THC-O is closer to 3 times stronger effects as delta-9. More research is still needed on quantifying different cannabinoid potencies.
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