Cannabinoids from hemp have always been popular, but there’s also been a lot of buzz about THC-O. THC-O although derived from Delta 8 is highly potent and different from Delta 8 and Delta 9. They have differences in effects, feel, and potency. Deltas are a milder version of THC-O, these suit different users with different preferences of potency and high. According to some studies, THC-O is three times more potent than Delta 8. But is it worth the hype? Is it that effective? Which substance is better suited for you? We give you detailed information before you make a purchase.
What is THC-O?
THC-O is a synthesized cannabinoid. It is not naturally derived from hemp and is man-made. This makes it more potent compared to naturally derived compounds. It is made by extracting Delta 8 content from hemp and then combining it with acetic anhydride to create THC-O. The production of this requires advanced equipment and specialized chemicals. According to some studies, THC-O is three times more potent than Delta 9 and is responsible for producing intense psychedelic highs.
What is Delta 8?
Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta 8 THC) is derived from the Cannabis sativa plant that’s found in small traces in hemp and cannabis (marijuana) plants. Delta-8 is one of over 100 cannabinoids produced naturally by the cannabis plant but is not found in significant amounts in the cannabis plant, best known for its healing properties and health benefits. It is a psychoactive substance with neuroprotective properties that help people in pain alleviation or inflammation.
What is Delta 9?
Delta 9 is a cannabinoid molecule in marijuana and works through the central nervous system to bring out the effects. It is derived from marijuana plants and extraction is fairly cheap and simple. It is twice more potent than Delta 8 and comes with some side effects.
Difference: THC-O v/s Delta 8 v/s Delta 9
Even though THC-O is derived from Delta 8, they are vastly different and affect the body differently. THC-O is highly potent than the rest. It is known to produce intense euphoric effects and might also cause hallucinations. Users should be very careful while taking THC-O. Delta 8 is closely related to Delta 9 THC, the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana. Even though they affect in similar ways, they do have some notable differences. Delta 8 is milder than Delta 9 and offers a more mellow and relaxing experience compared to Delta 9. It is usually used to ease the pain or relax after a long day. It is also extracted from hemp instead of marijuana. Delta 8 is a great alternative for those who want a subtle effect from their cannabinoids.
All three have therapeutic properties, the key difference lies in their intensity and dosage. Delta is more suitable for people with relatively low tolerance and little risk of side effects. Delta 9 is more potent and could be a mid-ground between the two, it also has the risk of some side effects. While THC-O is the most potent among the three and gives a strong buzz that heightens self-awareness.
What should you expect?
THC-O is a potent compound and delivers a euphoric, sedative high. It produces psychoactive effects that help you relax. Some users also experience mild hallucinations and visuals which is why it is sometimes called a psychedelic compound. THC-O is psychoactive in nature, that works with your body and mind. It affects your body by interacting with your peripheral nervous system. THC-O helps the body and muscles relax. It also affects the mind by interacting with the central nervous system. Different doses result in different effects, we recommend starting small and then gradually increasing your intake. Higher doses can lead to unwanted side effects. Low doses are more energizing and elevating, while heavy doses are more tranquilizing.
Delta 8 interacts with the receptors of the endocannabinoid system and gives a pleasant experience to the user. It tends to bring about uplifting and mood-brightening effects and a deep feeling of relaxation and peace. Most people use it to help their body and muscles relax. It affects the mind by interacting with the central nervous system. This lessens the side effects of anxiety, paranoia, and pain which provides a peaceful experience to the consumer while staying focused on their tasks.
Delta 9 is more potent than Delta 8 but not as strong as THC-O. This is perfect for people looking for something strong but not tranquilizing. Delta 9 produces similar effects to Delta 8, but the high is clearer and more nuanced. It helps in relaxing and reducing inflammation. It is also known to boost appetite and sleep. It is stronger than Delta 8 so you might feel lethargic and sleepy as the drug wears down.
Dosage chart
| Substance | Low dose | Mild dose | Heavy dose |
| THC-O | 0.5-3 mg | 3-10 mg | 10 mg + |
| Delta 8 | 5-15 mg | 15-45 mg | 45-150+ mg |
| Delta 9 | 3-5 mg | 5-15 mg | 15-35+ mg |
How to take these?
There are various ways to enjoy these compounds. Every day new products emerge, so there is something for everyone. Some ways to enjoy are
- inhalation: This is the fastest way to enjoy, inhalation quickly mixes in the bloodstream and you start to feel the effects kick in within 15-30 mins. This also means the effects don’t last for longer hours compared to other forms of ingestion. There are vapes, disposable carts, cigarettes, and joints available. Some of these are not extensively researched and may pose a safety threat so be careful.
- Oral ingestion: Oral ingestion can take time to kick in, but the effects last longer. These are available in edibles, gummies, tinctures, and oils.
- Topical application: Topicals are usually used to alleviate pain and have minimal psychoactive effects. They can be incorporated into lotions, balms, salves, and oils.
Legality
THC-O, Delta 8, and Delta 9 all lie in the legally gray area. According to the Farm Bill of 2018, hemp was legalized as long as it contained less than 0.3% of THC concentration. The federal government doesn’t specifically address these so they remain in the legally grey area. While most products are legal on a federal level, over a dozen states have decided to ban them. THC-O or Delta products are synthetically produced, so it does not have some state governments’ approval, but some claim it is legal at the federal level because of certain loopholes. Due to its increasing popularity, it is becoming difficult for the government to completely ban its use. Market expansion and credible producers have also emerged for the safe consumption of these products. However, check your state laws before making a purchase.
Delta 8 and THC-O are readily available but Delta 9 products are heavily regulated as much research needs to be done and is only available in edible form, hence it is important to purchase from reliable and trusted sources to achieve desired effects, safety, and purity.
Safety
Manufacturing of these compounds can be done in an unregulated, unsanitary environment, so it is important to purchase from credible sources. All these are fairly well-tolerated among humans when taken in responsible doses. But from stores that are transparent with their ingredients and do third-party lab-testing to be sure of the purity and safety of the products. We recommend you to explore a bit to figure out your capacity so you can enjoy these to their fullest.
What is better?
The key difference lies in what you’re seeking for, depending on your situation and tolerance level. The effects of Delta 8 last longer so if you’re in for a long night that requires focus and creativity this is your drug. But if you just need a peaceful night’s sleep then Delta 10 is found to reduce stress and provide blissful effects. Both provide beneficial effects, just one is more potent with longer effects than the other. Some users also prefer to mix the two for a more enhanced experience. We recommend talking to your doctor before you start taking it.
THC-O products also cost more than Delta products as they are more difficult to make. It needs to be derived from Delta 8 and then further processed to convert it into THC-O. Refining and purity also drive up the cost.
Where should you buy it from?
The market for these drugs is constantly expanding due to their growing popularity. They are easy to manage, without compromising your experience while providing many potential benefits. There are new, more fun ways of consuming THC-O, Delta 8, and Delta 9 products to give you a memorable experience. From gummies to disposable pens, there is something for everyone. Here is a site to consider:
DivineHemps is a high-quality Delta-8 brand that offers a wide range of products tailored to your preferred way of consumption. It is a brand focused on health and well-being promoting a stress-free lifestyle. They ensure every ingredient is organic, chemical-free, non-GMO, and non-psychoactive (less than 0.2%).
The brand is thorough about what goes into the products and provides adequate information, keeping your best interests at heart. They also do third-party lab testing, offering complete transparency.
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6349031/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol
- https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Tetrahydrocannabinol-acetate
- https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/5-things-know-about-delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol-delta-8-thc
