As the cannabis industry grows in the United States, and due to several recent statewide legalizations, more people have become familiar with the cannabis market, and consumers are increasingly interested in certain benefits of cannabis-derived products. From cannabidiol (“CBD”) to tetrahydrocannabinol (“THC”), there are several products containing cannabinoids with different effects and purposes. As new types of cannabinoids become mainstream, the market faces unforeseen growth.
Consumers want to know more about the different types of cannabis-derived products available for their consumption. However, confusion about cannabinoids is quite common. Even the most avid consumers might not know the difference between popular strains, such as CBD and THC, let alone new cannabinoids that become available.
A marijuana-derived strain gaining media attention is Delta-8 THC, a popular cannabinoid that occurs in small concentrations. As more cannabis-based products are becoming available, it is essential for consumers to know the differences and similarities between the numerous cannabinoids. From popular CBD-based products to newcomers such as Delta-8 THC products, an informed consumer can correctly decide which goods are right for them. Learn more about the differences and similarities between CBD and Delta-8 THC below.
Defining CBD: The Popular Cannabinoid
CBD is an acronym for cannabidiol. It is a chemical compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant. The Cannabis sativa plant has two main species: marijuana and hemp. Both hemp and marijuana contain traces of CBD, but there is a significantly higher trace in hemp, which comparatively has lower THC levels than marijuana. Unlike the chemical compound THC, CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects many marijuana users experience. CBD has been extensively researched and has garnered the favor of many cannabis consumers. This extensive research and attention have led activists and researchers to call for political action to make cannabinoids like CBD legal nationwide.
Since CBD (with less than 0.3% Total THC) is legal and readily obtainable across many states, it is one of the most popular and least stigmatized cannabinoids. While many states have legalized the use of CBD-based products, many CBD companies encounter challenges and obstacles implemented by the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”).
Delta 8-THC: The Rare Newcomer
Delta 8-THC is a rare cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. Because Delta-8 THC is so rare, it is often artificially manufactured and converted from CBD. While Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC share similar structures, Delta-8 THC is less psychoactive and more stable.
Like CBD, Delta-8 THC is also a cannabinoid. The most significant differences between CBD and Delta-8 THC can be found in Delta-8 THC’s background. Delta-8 THC is known for its anxiety-reducing and psychoactive effects, resulting in the “high” that many consumers experience due to consumption or inhalation. CBD does not necessarily produce psychoactive effects and has been extensively studied for its side effects and benefits compared to Delta-8 THC, which still demands further research. Notably, the future of Delta-8 THC goods is in jeopardy following recent federal warnings against the rare cannabinoid.
When the cannabis community is educated about the hemp and marijuana options available, consumers can make informed decisions about what products are best for them. With years of experience in the legal cannabis communities, Chelsie Spencer is a Dallas-based attorney for Ritter Spencer Cheng PLLC. Chelsie Spencer is a trusted advisor for many marijuana, CBD, hemp, and cannabis businesses. Her additional expertise in other areas such as intellectual property law and commercial litigation makes her well-suited to guide her clients through unique legal issues. Contact Ritter Spencer Cheng or give us a call at 214.295.5070 for more information.
