Delta 8 vs. CBN: Key Differences & Similarities

Assorted delta 8 products from Delta Munchies on a multicolored background.

Although derived from the same plant, delta 8 and CBN are vastly different in terms of properties and benefits. While delta 8 is used for its psychoactive effects, CBN is preferred among individuals dealing with issues like chronic pain or lack of sleep.

But those aren’t the only characteristics of these two potent cannabinoids. Below, we examine them in and out.

Let’s dive in!

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Key Takeaways

  • Delta 8 is a mildly psychoactive minor cannabinoid extracted from hemp.
  • CBN is a highly relaxing non-psychoactive minor cannabinoid believed to help with sleep.
  • As long as you’re buying products from safe vendors, you can combine both cannabinoids to experience a well-balanced effect that enhances the entourage effect.

 

What is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 is a minor cannabinoid derived from the hemp plant. Its chemical structure differs from delta 9 THC, the main psychoactive chemical that provides you with a high.

It has a double bond on the eighth carbon atom in the hydrocarbon chain instead of the ninth, as in delta 9. This makes it harder for delta 8 THC to bind to CB1 receptors and, as such, produces much weaker effects. It causes a mild high and not-so-harsh side effects, which is why it has been nicknamed “weed light” or “diet weed.”

The best thing about this particular THC is that it gives you a certain level of high but keeps your mind clear and alert. So, you can use it during the day, and it won’t interfere with your other activities.

Delta 8 THC is found in hemp in very small amounts, so the usual way of production is through synthetic conversion. It is synthesized by processing CBD and can be found in the form of extracts that are used to make all kinds of products for you to enjoy.

You can find it in the form of edibles, including lots of flavorsome gummies and oil-based tinctures. Or, you can enjoy it the traditional way–by smoking a delta 8 THC flower or a vape pen.

 

Is Delta 8 CBN?

Let’s settle the Delta 8 vs. CBN debate–the two are not the same.

Delta 8 is a psychoactive compound extracted from hemp. It produces a psychoactive effect and certain side-effects related to that.

CBN is a cannabinoid, a natural chemical component found in the cannabis plant (although it can also be produced synthetically). CBN is generally present in cannabis in traces, and larger quantities appear as a by-product of THC degradation.

When THC ages or is exposed to air, heat, or light, its potency gradually drops, transforming it into CBN. Old cannabis extracts exposed to sunlight or kept out at room temperature will ultimately have increased quantities of CBN as a product of oxidation.

CBN does not have a psychoactive effect, which means it won’t give you a high. It provides a calming and relaxing feeling as opposed to the euphoria you experience from THC.

 

Delta 8 and CBN: The Entourage Effect

We have to give credit to Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, who is best known for his discovery of THC and for starting the debate over the medical use of cannabis. He also introduced the entourage effect, which describes the mutual power of all the compounds in a cannabis plant.

The entourage effect means all the cannabinoids and THC work in synergy to increase the effects of the chemicals on our endocannabinoid system. This isn’t a new concept, as the combined power of herbs has been used by healers and herbalists for millennia.

In this case, the entourage effect means that the combination of delta 8 THC and CBN will mutually increase their separate benefits on the body and mind. The synergy will affect the level of psychoactive THC high and the health and therapeutic advantages of CBN.

Pairing Delta 8 With CBN

A CBN Delta 8 mix–how does this synergy work?

CBN has the role of a supporting cannabinoid. It has no intoxicating effects but is known to boost mental health, relieve pain, calm nausea, and fight bacterial infections. It has a sedative effect that helps in cases of anxiety.

It can help fight insomnia because of its tremendous benefits as a sleep aid. Anecdotally, CBN helps to reach a faster post-workout recovery and maintain a healthy brain function. CBN doesn’t produce these effects alone but only as part of the entourage effect when paired with other cannabinoids.

Delta 8 is sometimes called a cross between THC and CBD as it provides the best of two worlds–a mild high that doesn’t interfere with normal daily functioning plus a range of therapeutic effects.

Delta 8 will make your body feel relaxed without any intense intoxicating or paranoia feelings. This is why it is preferred by first-time cannabis users and people who experience feelings of paranoia and anxiety when consuming weed.

Put together, they produce a unique combination of a clear-headed, sedated feeling. You get a boost in the psychoactive effects delivered by the THC and, at the same time, an increase in the sedative effects provided by CBN products. This is what makes the combo favored by users.

Still, we all react differently to weed, so it’s wiser to start low and increase the doses over time to find the ratio that really hits the spot.

 

Differences Between CBN And Delta 8

CBN and Delta 8 are both minor cannabinoids, but they are different types of chemicals with distinct effects.

Delta 8 is a THC used as an alternative to delta 9 THC, and although mild, it does produce an intoxicating effect. CBN, just like CBD, does not give you a high.

Delta 8 is found in small quantities and synthesized using CBD to produce consumable amounts. CBN is the result of THC oxidation, meaning as THC matures and is exposed to heat and light, it eventually transforms into CBN.

 

Delta 8 + CBN Similarities

The main similarities lie in their wellness benefits. That is why delta 8 and CBN are paired together.

The most important thing here is that Delta 8 doesn’t have side effects that produce paranoia and anxiety like other forms of THC. Its reduced psychoactive effects are also very effective in boosting mood and reducing anxiety and depression symptoms.

It will give you clarity and focus, guiding you through your everyday duties with ease.

Other benefits of delta 8 include the following:

  • Pain relief
  • Nausea relief
  • Feelings of calmness and relaxation
  • Improved focus and concentration
  • Boosted energy levels
  • Improved appetite

There is still space for more research to be done into the positive effects of CBN, but the ones that we already know include:

  • Sleep aid – the synergy with delta 8 creates a powerful calming effect that will help you catch some much-needed z’s.
  • Pain relief – it has analgesic effects, which means it helps treat migraines and arthritis.
  • Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties – CBN can be used in treating all kinds of inflammatory conditions.
  • Appetite stimulant – this is good news for some people, and those who are trying to eat less should find some quality munchies to curb their appetite.

 

CBN vs. Delta 8: Reddit’s Thoughts

Let’s examine what the world’s biggest discussion hub thinks about the CBN vs. Delta 8 debate!

Delta 8 and CBN have both been getting a lot of traction on social media, with lengthy discussions about their effects and uses. Reddit has seen lots of debate in subreddits where Redditors love to share their experiences and opinions on this so-called “match made in heaven.”

One interesting thread discusses how delta 8 can help with exercising and workout since it puts you in a mild high but does not totally intoxicate you.

A Redditor shared how delta 8 has been a game changer for them as they got into long-distance running again. They asked the community about their favorite exercises while taking delta 8. In response, one user recommended always popping an edible before biking.

There are many Redditors looking for explanations on the differences between delta 9 and 8, with Bright_Type9547 left wondering about which hits harder. The comment section suggests that delta 8 can hit differently depending on your body response, but bela_the_horse says it depends on your goal.

They go on to say they enjoy Delta 8 during the day because it’s much less potent and doesn’t affect their performance at work. But for those who just want to get high, Delta 9 is the way to go.

There are some Redditors who have felt certain side effects of these cannabinoids. Side effects are not uncommon, as we all react differently to weed. Dosing plays a key role, so be mindful of that.

TheDude1210 talks about his experience trying a CBN vape cartridge and feeling super groggy with a headache similar to the one you get when hungover. It’s the first time he’s felt such side effects, so he needed fellow Redditors to clarify things for him.

It’s basically a matter of dosage, as SmithersSmoke explains. This Redditor confirms that CBN is great for increasing REM sleep. But if you take too many CBN gummies for sleep, it will leave you feeling groggy the next morning. So, they advise taking smaller amounts to avoid that.

 

Where to Buy Delta 8

Delta 8 THC is a legal weed compound sold in various forms–edibles, vapes, oils, tinctures, beverages, or flowers. It can be bought at convenience stores, over the counter at gas stations, and at weed dispensaries.

However, there’s nothing like getting delta 8 delivered to your door.

So, are you looking for:

  • American, hemp-derived delta 8
  • Tested in ISO 9000 DEA-certified lab
  • Extracted using the most advanced extraction techniques

In that case–you’re in luck! Delta Munchies has you covered with a bunch of products that feature delta 8, such as gummies, carts, vapes, tinctures, and bundles. They are made from American-grown hemp and tested in a certified lab, delivering a premium-quality product.

One of the best ways to use delta 8 is gummies. Each gummy piece is dosed with a certain amount of THC so you can have full control over your intake. Gummies and tinctures are an entirely discreet way of consuming delta 8 because they come in lovely flavors and aromas.

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Disposable vape pens are lab-tested for safety and potency and don’t contain cutting agents that might ruin the experience. Or, you can opt for cartridges if you like to experiment with flavors more.

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Conclusion

So, we went over everything you should know about delta 8 THC and CBN. It’s now your turn to you can make an informed choice and enjoy the newly found compounds of the plant!

A word of advice, though. If you’re new to vaping delta 8, it’s best to start with a 5-second inhale and wait for about 10 to 20 minutes before taking any more.

Other than that–enjoy the cannabinoid’s mind-calming effects, and don’t forget to visit Delta Munchies for the newest Delta 8 additions!