THCA Vs Delta 8

THCA is back in our store.  Have you tried it yet?  You might be curious how it stacks up to other cannabinoids, like delta 8.  Read on to learn everything there is to know when it comes down to THCA vs delta 8.  Discover the cannabinoids’ origins, potency, and more.

In the meantime, check out our selection and have your own THCA vs delta 8 showdown from home.  Choose from delta 8 blunts and prerolls, or THCA disposable vapes.

Where do they come from?

When it comes to THCA vs delta 8, one cannabinoid is more readily available than the other.  Both are naturally occurring; however, delta 8 only occurs in trace amounts, while THCA is more abundant.  Since delta 8 is so scarce, chemists have used the process of isomerization to convert naturally abundant CBD to delta 8.  

What are they?

THCA is the acidic form of THC.  When we discuss THC, we refer to delta 9 THC.  As it turns out, delta 8 itself is another form of THC, delta 8 THC.  The difference between delta 8 and delta 9 comes down to the placement of a double bond on the carbon chain in their respective molecular structures.

THCA vs delta 8 potency

In its raw original form, THCA is not psychoactive.  This is due to the presence of a carboxyl ring in its molecular structure.  This ring prevents THCA from attaching to the CB1 receptors in our endocannabinoid system.  Since it’s not able to attach to these receptors, we don’t experience a high while consuming THCA in its original form.  However, this all changes when we add heat.  This heat can come from a lighter, the oven, or a vape pen.  The addition of heat removes the carboxyl ring, and converts THCA into delta 9 THC.  This process is known as decarboxylation.  In order to enjoy THCA in its original form, you can’t use heat.  So, you’d need to consume raw weed, or a specially made tincture.  If you’re smoking THCA, it will be THC by the time you inhale.  This means that in terms of potency, THCA is just as potent as THC when heat is added, because it turns into THC.  Just remember: no heat, no high.

Delta 8, on the other hand, is less potent than THC.  Users have embraced the cannabinoid as a more manageable alternative to its more famous cousin.  Since delta 8 is less potent, some users find it more approachable.  It may even offer less potential for anxiety and paranoia, as outlined by this survey.  That being said, if you wanted to experience the same level of potency as THC, you would simply need to consume a stronger dose of delta 8 to take you there.

Legality

Both cannabinoids are considered legal on a federal level (as long as they come from hemp) thanks to the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill.  This bill legalized hemp federally.  Legally, hemp is defined as cannabis containing .3% or less delta 9 THC.  As long as these cannabinoids come from hemp, they are considered federally legal.  That being said, individual states have handled the explosion of hemp-derived cannabinoids in their own way.  Some have imposed regulations, some have affirmed the federal law, and some have banned these cannabinoids altogether.  Definitely stay aware of what’s going on in your state before indulging.

However, if you live in a state with legal cannabis, you’ll notice that you’re consuming THCA when you buy flower from the dispensary.  Since THCA becomes THC after heat is added, it’s typically a prominent feature on the label.  That same label may even show delta 8 in trace amounts.  These cannabinoids are subject to different rules when they come from cannabis instead of hemp.

The bottom line

So, should you smoke THCA or delta 8?  The answer comes down to what you’re looking for out of your experience.  If you love the experience of smoking traditional THC, then THCA is the cannabinoid for you.  If you prefer a more mild experience, then reach for the delta 8.  No matter which cannabinoid you choose, DVNT has you covered with our selection of reliable lab tested products.  Check them out and decide which cannabinoid is better when it comes to THCA vs delta 8.