THC-O vs. Delta 8

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Delta 8 and THC-O are both cannabinoids that have psychoactive effects on the body. They are closely related in many ways and very different in other ways.

In this article, we detail everything you need to know about both cannabinoids, including their differences, similarities, and potency compared to each other.

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Key Takeaways

  • THC-O is a cannabinoid produced synthetically using acetic anhydride, and the process of making it is quite technical and typically requires specific equipment. THC-O is normally deemed more powerful and effective than regular THC, with some saying it is about three times more powerful.
  • Delta 8 THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis plants, although in small quantities. Delta 8 is linked with relaxing and calming effects on the body and may help support sleep. Delta 8 is more popular and available than THC-O, and delta 8 is undeniably cheaper than THC-O, and this may be a result of the fact that delta 8 is less complicated to get and is more readily available.
  • Both delta 8 and THC-O can get you “high.” They are both psychoactive substances responsible for feelings of euphoria, altered perceptions, relaxation, and energy. Apart from their psychoactive effects, both cannabinoids also have similar effects on other processes of the body, like appetite stimulation.

 

What is THC-O?

THC-O is a cannabinoid synthetically produced using acetic anhydride – a colorless liquid related to plastics, dyes, explosives, and pharmaceuticals. The process of making it involves extracting delta 8 THC from hemp plants and then mixing it with acetic anhydride.

You should note that making THC-O is quite technical and typically requires specific equipment. Also, note that THC-O is normally deemed more powerful and effective than regular THC, with some saying it is about three times more powerful.

 

What is Delta 8?

Delta 8 THC or Delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis plants, although in small quantities. As a result of the limited amount of delta 8 obtained from hemp and cannabis, it is typically manufactured from hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD).

This cannabinoid is famous for its psychoactive effects and may also be linked to a couple of health benefits in users, including pain relief and a therapeutic sense of relaxation.

 

What is the Main Difference Between THC-O and Delta 8?

THC-O and Delta 8 are linked and similar, but some apparent differences exist. We explore these differences below.

Potency

One of the significant points of difference between delta 8 and THC-O is their psychoactive effects. THC-O is generally more powerful and will yield more psychoactive effects like hallucination and altered perception. It is essential to note, however, that individually unique factors could also affect the impact or potency of these cannabinoids on different individuals.

Effects

Generally, delta 8 is linked with relaxing and calming effects on the body and may help support sleep. On the other hand, THC-O has more energetic and creative effects on the body, causing users to feel more alert and focused. Furthermore, because delta 8 is typically milder, it may feature fewer side effects that can be linked to THC-O, such as paranoia and anxiety.

Availability

Delta 8 is more popular and available than THC-O. You are more likely to find companies that have delta 8 in various forms and ways than you will find those with THC-O. However, it is essential to note that THC-O is fast increasing in popularity, and there is no saying how popular the cannabinoid will become.

Natural Occurrence

Delta 8 can be found naturally occurring in hemp and cannabis plants, even though it may be in small quantities. On the other hand, THC-O is similar to HHC in the sense that it is not naturally occurring but is made by combining acetic anhydride with THC.

Price

Right now, delta 8 is undeniably cheaper than THC-O, and this may be a result of the fact that delta 8 is less complicated to get and is more readily available. THC-O, on the other hand, is a new and trendy product that is still quite limited. Consequently, it goes at higher prices.

Legality

When it comes to their legal status, they are very similar, but delta 8 appears to be under more scrutiny than THC-O. Ordinarily, by virtue of the Farm Bill, they may be legal at a federal level, provided they follow the stipulations. Although, you should note that there are still arguments as to whether THC-O falls under the definition of “hemp” in the Farm Bill.

On the other hand, at the state level, some states expressly have anti-delta 8 laws that do not necessarily apply to or include THC-O.

 

THC-O vs. Delta 8: What are the Similarities?

Despite some of the differences mentioned above, there are still a couple of things that these cannabinoids have in common. They include:

Psychoactive effects

Both delta 8 and THC-O can get you “high.” They are both psychoactive substances responsible for feelings of euphoria, altered perceptions, relaxation, and energy. Apart from their psychoactive effects, both cannabinoids also have similar effects on other processes of the body, like appetite stimulation.

Hemp Origin

Even though THC-O is made using acetic anhydride, one of its key ingredients is delta 8, which is obtained or extracted from hemp. Therefore, in that manner, it is similar to delta 8, which is also extracted from hemp.

Safety

The research on the safety of both THC-O and delta 8 is still ongoing, though they are currently deemed to be relatively safe. Most of the dangers associated with both cannabinoids primarily arise due to wrong compositions or bad products made by shoddy brands and where users use more than their bodies can tolerate.

 

Which is Stronger: Delta 8 or THC-O?

The short answer is that THC-O is generally deemed stronger and more potent than delta 8. The implication of this is that THC-O has a stronger effect on the endocannabinoid system than delta 8, therefore affecting the processes in the body more strongly.

In fact, some have described the effect that is gotten from THC-O as basically “hallucinogenic.”

Note also that the difference in the strength between THC-O and delta 8 is generally estimated to be about three times, which is a remarkable difference. Despite these, it is still important to point out that the exact effects of cannabinoids on the body also depend significantly on each individual.

 

Is THC-O Better than Delta 8?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question because the better cannabinoid for each individual differs based on need, biology, and a couple of other factors.

For instance, delta 8 is generally considered to be a milder version of delta 9, and it is generally less potent than THC-O. Therefore, its effects are primarily relaxing and therapeutic, making it the perfect option for individuals looking for something mild that would help them sleep or feel relaxed.

Our delta 8 vape cartridges are a great way to try this delta 8 THC. They are made with the highest quality delta 8 distillate and all natural strain-specific terpenes that deliver an authentic, true-to-strain experience.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a burst of energy or a hallucinogenic kind of high, the better option will be THC-O because it is more potent and binds more strongly to the endocannabinoid system.

Also, the option for which is better may be determined by individual body reactions. If your body is not tolerant to THC-O, probably because it is not naturally occurring in hemp, then the better option for you will always be delta 8.

Therefore you must clarify your needs and even tolerance for various substances before you can make the choice on which of the cannabinoids is best for you.

 

What About Mixing Delta 8 and THC-O?

It is not a new thing for users to combine cannabinoids to reap a new experience and unique sensations. However, is it okay to mix THC-O with delta 8? The simple answer is yes; you can combine them, and it will produce a more “balanced high.”

Remember that we already mentioned that THC-O is typically more potent than delta 8 and will usually produce a stronger psychoactive effect. However, mixing them seems to produce a more balanced high as it draws from the effects of both cannabinoids.

Therefore, a mix will most likely be perfect if you want something stronger than delta 8 and less potent than THC-O.

It is important to note, however, that the constitution of the mix may also affect the effects of the mix on the body. For instance, a mixture that has more THC-O than delta 8 will typically be more potent than one that has more delta 8 than THC-O.

Now, an essential aspect of combining both cannabinoids is whether it is safe to do so. So far, that appears to be the case. The same side effects that could occur from taking any one of them alone may remain the same if you take a mixture of both.

Lastly, you should also note that when mixing both cannabinoids, it is vital that you reduce your usual dosage for both. Therefore, if you typically take 10mg of THC-O and intend to add delta 8 to the mix, it is important to reduce your THC-O dosage. This prevents the risks that typically accompany taking more doses of cannabinoids than the body can tolerate.

 

What is the Legal Status of THC-O and Delta 8?

Like almost every cannabinoid, the legal status of delta 8 and THC-O varies from state to state, depending on their laws. Some states allow them, while others do not. At a federal level, delta 8 is legal thanks to the Farm Bill of 2018, which makes products that are from hemp and have THC of less than 0.3% legal.

However, there have been arguments on whether THC-O would fall under this covering, especially since it is not naturally occurring in hemp like delta 8 is.

Recently, the DEA ( Drug Enforcement Administration) ruled that THC-O does not fall under the Farm Bill. Therefore, it may be illegal under federal law. Questions still remain, however, especially as to the enforceability of this.

 

Are THC-O and Delta 8 Safe?

Yes, the general consensus is that they are safe for consumption and do not inherently cause any adverse effects to the body. However, this does not preclude that certain side effects may arise from taking delta 8 or THC-O, especially when taken in doses that are too much for the body at a time.

Some of these side effects include:

  • Dry mouth
  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Altered perception
  • Slower reaction time and movements
  • Anxiety

It is important to note that research is still ongoing on the effects of these cannabinoids on the body and how safe they may be. Therefore, studies may reveal firmer results that prove or disprove the safety of THC-O and delta 8. Lastly, note that most of the side effects mentioned above are temporary and will dissipate after some time.

 

THC-O and Delta 8: FAQs

How Long Does THC-O High Last?

There is no specific answer for this since individuals react differently to THC-O based on tolerance and other biological factors. However, on average, the high from THC-O usually lasts anywhere between 3 hours and 8 hours.

How Long Does Delta 8 High Last?

Typically, the high from delta 8 lasts for different lengths of time in individuals depending on their bodies and tolerance. On average, though, delta 8 high lasts about 4 hours.

Is THC-O Or THCP Stronger?

THCP is more potent and stronger than THC-O, about two times stronger. Furthermore, it is almost ten times stronger than delta 9 or delta 8.

Is Delta 8 Stronger Than HHC?

Yes, delta 8 is stronger and causes more psychoactive effects on the body than HHC does. However, HHC also causes some euphoria and relaxation in the body.

 

Final Thoughts — THC-O vs. Delta 8

Delta 8 and THC-O are both strong cannabinoids that can help you achieve the high that you seek. However, if you are on the lookout for strong, energetic, and powerful “highs” then THC-O should be the cannabinoid that you go to.

On the other hand, delta 8 will give you a milder and more relaxing “high.” Beyond their psychoactive effects, it is also important to remember that while delta 8 naturally occurs in hemp, THC-O does not. It is synthetically produced.