Delta 8 vs CBD: Potency, Side Effects, and Legal Status

Table of Contents

• Delta 8 vs CBD — What’s the Difference?
• Effects of CBD vs Delta 8
• Potency and Use Cases
• Side Effects and Safety Considerations
• Legal Status of Delta 8 and CBD

CBD, or cannabidiol, took the country by storm following the 2018 Farm Bill. That’s the legislation that defined hemp as cannabis plants with concentrations of no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight. It means CBD is widely recognized, even among those who don’t really know much about cannabis.

But other cannabinoids, like delta-8 THC, have gained a foothold as well. So what makes CBD different from delta-8? While both are naturally occurring in the cannabis plant and can be sourced from federally legal hemp, the effects these cannabinoids produce in the body are quite different. One is non-psychoactive and primarily used for therapeutic benefits and general wellness, while the other creates subtle intoxicating effects.

Let’s take a closer look at delta-8 vs CBD in terms of potency, side effects, and legal status.

Delta 8 vs CBD — What’s the Difference?

Delta 8 and CBD are both cannabinoids that occur naturally in cannabis plants—two of well over 100 that have been identified (1). CBD is found in much higher concentrations than delta-8, which is considered a minor cannabinoid.

But the bigger difference lies in their effects. While CBD isn’t intoxicating, delta-8 THC can produce mild euphoric effects.

What is CBD?

CBD is short for cannabidiol. It’s one of the most abundant cannabinoids in cannabis (right up there with THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol). Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill (2), CBD can be found in a wide range of products. That includes oils, capsules, topicals, and even beverages. Here at Cornbread Hemp, we’re proud to use full-spectrum CBD oil extracted from hemp grown right here in Kentucky.

CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t produce intoxicating effects. Like other cannabinoids, it interacts with receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system, albeit less directly. The endocannabinoid system regulates functions like mood, sleep, inflammation, pain, appetite, and more. 

What is Delta 8 THC?

 Don’t confuse delta-8 THC with delta-9 THC, which is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Delta-8 has some chemical similarities, but it occurs in much smaller amounts in cannabis plants.

In fact, it’s minimal enough that most of the delta-8 products on the market actually use a semi-synthetic form of delta-8 that’s produced in a lab via chemical conversion. By using hemp-derived cannabinoids—usually CBD—manufacturers can technically stay federally compliant.

Like CBD, delta-8 interacts with the endocannabinoid system. But it does so more directly, particularly with CB1 receptors in the brain. That’s what produces psychoactive effects. Delta-8 doesn’t have quite the affinity for binding to these receptors as delta-9 THC, which is why its intoxicating effects are often described as milder and less intense. Still, people report feeling euphoric, relaxed, and impaired, with subtle altered perceptions.

That’s why delta-8 has nicknames like “diet weed” and “marijuana lite.”

Chemical structure and source comparison

On a molecular level, CBD and delta-8 are distinct compounds. They have a similar chemical foundation, but their chemical structures lead to different effects.

CBD’s structure means this cannabinoid doesn’t bind strongly to CB1 or CB2 receptors. Researchers believe it influences these receptors in less direct ways. It may also interact with non-cannabinoid receptors and signaling pathways, like serotonin (3). 

Delta-8 is similar to delta-9 THC, with the exception of a double bond in the carbon chain. In delta-8 THC, this double bond is on the eighth carbon atom. In delta-9 THC, it’s on the ninth. It’s a tiny difference that changes how these compounds interact with receptors in the endocannabinoid—and the reason delta-8 is often milder.

Production processes also distinguish CBD from delta-8 THC. While CBD is often extracted straight from hemp plants, delta-8 is most commonly synthesized from hemp-derived cannabinoids like CBD. That’s because cannabis plants don’t produce it in very high concentrations.

Effects of CBD vs Delta 8

Because of their molecular differences, CBD and delta-8 THC produce different effects in the body. CBD isn’t intoxicating, but delta-8 can produce mild psychoactive effects along the lines of delta-9 THC (just far more subtle).

Of course, the effects of cannabis are always personal, because of specifics like dosage, product type, tolerance, and sensitivity level. That means individual experiences vary.

Does CBD get you high?

No. CBD doesn’t produce a high the way psychoactive cannabinoids do. It’s largely considered non-intoxicating because it doesn’t bind well to CB1 receptors. Instead, it seems to interact with multiple receptors in the body, which is why it’s often described as having a “multi-targeted” approach.

Research suggests CBD may:

• support stress relief and mood regulation
• promote recovery after exercise
• relieve inflammation
• support healthy sleep cycles

Keep in mind that full-spectrum CBD products can contain up to 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight per federal hemp guidelines, which is not typically enough to produce intoxicating effects.

Does Delta 8 cause a psychoactive effect?

Yes. Delta-8 can produce intoxicating effects because it has a stronger affinity for CB1 receptors in the brain, especially compared to CBD. It’s comparable to the effects of delta-9 THC, but not as intense.

People report feeling the classic symptoms associated with a cannabis “high,” which include euphoria, altered sensory perceptions, relaxation, and impairment. These are generally mild, but be mindful that delta-8 can still affect coordination and reaction time.

How long do the effects last for each?

Effects from either cannabinoid are mostly influenced by the type of product you use.

Products that are inhaled tend to kick in quickly, often within minutes, and effects generally last two to four hours, or maybe a little longer. 

Products that are ingested, like gummies and capsules, don’t work as quickly since they have to be digested before the cannabinoids are metabolized in the liver. That means a slower onset, anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours or more, but much longer-lasting effects, lasting 4 to 8 hours or longer.

The timeframes are comparable, but the effects of delta-8 may be more noticeable because they feel intoxicating. CBD tends to be more subtle. It’s often more notable for what it removes than for what it adds—less physical discomfort, less anxiety, reduced pain, that kind of thing.

Remember that individual timelines vary due to factors like metabolism and consumption habits.

Which one is better for relaxation or focus?

That might be a personal preference. CBD is generally used for relaxation and a sense of calm without intoxication. Delta-8 can also promote relaxation, but it is psychoactive. That means it has the potential to impair coordination or mental clarity. It may also trigger drowsiness.

Really, choosing between the two comes down to whether or not you want to feel “high” or not.

Potency and Use Cases

Questions about cannabinoid potency are usually related to impairment. When a cannabis product is described as “high potency,” it often means strong psychoactive effects. CBD doesn’t have intoxicating effects, which means discussions about potency typically relate to how effectively a CBD product reduces symptoms like anxiety, stress, or pain.

Which is stronger: CBD or Delta 8?

If “stronger” is a reference to impairment, then delta-8 is much stronger than CBD. CBD doesn’t have intoxicating effects, so it doesn’t produce the “high” we associate with cannabis, and specifically THC. That’s true even with high doses of CBD.

Delta-8 THC does produce intoxicating effects, though they’re much milder than delta-9 THC. Still, the bottom line is that using delta-8 products generally produces psychoactive effects to some degree.

Delta 8 vs CBD for pain relief

We have more research into the potential benefits of CBD for pain relief. It’s been studied for its role in reducing chronic pain (4), inflammatory pain (5), and neuropathic pain (6). 

Since it interacts with cannabinoid receptors involved in pain perception, Delta-8 may also influence pain. But right now, research is limited. Preclinical studies suggest it could offer modest pain reduction benefits (7).

Again, individual responses can and do vary based on dosage, product quality, and consumption habits.

CBD vs Delta 8 for anxiety and stress

Studies suggest that CBD could support stress and anxiety management (8), and it does so without intoxication. 

Delta-8 can also produce relaxation, thanks to its psychoactive properties. That can mean a calm, mellow experience in practice. But because delta-8 produces intoxicating effects, some people may find themselves feeling anxious or uncomfortable. That’s more likely in higher doses. 

Which compound is more suitable for beginners?

CBD is usually considered an appropriate place to start if you’re new to cannabis. Since it’s non-intoxicating, there’s no risk of feeling high or otherwise impaired.

Delta-8 is often promoted as a milder form of delta-9, with more subtle psychoactive effects. But there are valid concerns relating to safety. Here’s what the Food and Drug Administration had to say about delta-8 products in a statement (9).

• Delta-8 THC products have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for safe use and may be marketed in ways that put the public health at risk.
• The FDA has received adverse event reports involving delta-8 THC-containing products. 
• Delta-8 THC has psychoactive and intoxicating effects.
• Delta-8 THC products often involve the use of potentially harmful chemicals to create the concentrations of delta-8 THC claimed in the marketplace. 
• Delta-8 THC products should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.

Side Effects and Safety Considerations

It’s possible to experience side effects if you consume cannabinoids like CBD and delta-8 THC. Dosage, personal sensitivity, product quality, and consumption method affect the likelihood and severity.

Common side effects of Delta 8

Because delta-8 produces psychoactive effects, potential side effects are comparable to those of other intoxicating THC compounds.

With high doses, you might experience dizziness, anxiety, digestive discomfort, or even paranoia.

Product quality plays a big role here. The quality of the finished product depends heavily on how it’s manufactured and what third-party lab testing reveals. Always, always look for a current certificate of analysis (COA) whenever you’re considering a cannabis product.

Possible side effects of CBD

We have more research on CBD, which can lead to side effects like:

• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• appetite changes
• potential medication interactions

These effects tend to be mild and temporary.

Can you overdose on Delta 8 or CBD?

There’s no clinical evidence that you can fatally overdose on CBD or delta-8 THC alone. But that doesn’t mean you can take too much and experience very unpleasant symptoms.

With CBD, that can mean feeling tired or hungry, or getting a stomachache.

With delta-8, higher doses mean stronger psychoactive effects and a higher risk of feeling confused, anxious, nauseated, or really impaired. Remember that edibles can increase these risks, because it’s easy to take more before the first dose has a chance to kick in.

For the best experience, always begin with a low dose and wait for effects to become noticeable before consuming more.

Drug interactions and precautions

Both CBD and delta-8 THC have the potential to interact with other medications. CBD specifically can affect enzymes in the liver, changing how some medicines are processed. That can include blood thinners, anti-seizure medications, and some antidepressants.

Delta-8 THC could also interact with medications that affect the central nervous system, which might make you feel more sedated or impaired.

Obligatory reminder: If you have an existing medical condition, currently take prescription medications, or you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, do the smart thing and speak with a healthcare professional before trying CBD, delta-8, or cannabinoids in general.

Legal Status of Delta 8 and CBD

Since federal law and state law don’t always align, the legal status of cannabinoids like CBD and delta-8 THC isn’t always straightforward.

Is CBD legal in all 50 states?

Kind of. Hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight is federally compliant. But some states have their own restrictions on CBD products. That means that even federally compliant CBD products may not be legal in your state.

Where is Delta 8 legal or restricted?

Delta-8 products entered the market through something of a legal loophole. They’re usually produced from hemp-derived CBD, which technically makes them federally compliant.

But many states have passed laws restricting or even banning delta-8 THC over concerns regarding its psychoactive effects or manufacturing processes. Some states allow delta-8 THC products with strict regulations.

Federal vs state laws on hemp-derived cannabinoids

The federal definition of hemp is cannabis plants with delta-9 THC concentrations of 0.3% or less. According to that definition, hemp-derived cannabinoids, like CBD, can be produced and sold.

But individual states also make their own cannabis regulations. While some mirror federal hemp laws, others take a more restrictive approach. 

It means current cannabis laws are basically a patchwork system where products may be legal on a federal level but not in certain states.

What to check before buying online

If you’re shopping online for cannabinoid products, double-check whether they’re permitted in your state. Always confirm that the products are derived from hemp with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight, and look for a current certificate of analysis. A company that offers full transparency about its hemp source, manufacturing methods, and testing processes, such as Cornbread Hemp, is also important. 

Following these tips is the best way to find legal, compliant, quality products.