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Delta-8-THC has headlined the hemp market for a while, but Delta-10 is now emerging as another therapeutic option. Both are psychoactive, both are described as being less potent than Delta-9-THC, and both are hemp isomers. We know what you’re thinking—is there even a difference in Delta-8 vs Delta-10?
The truth is, Delta-8 and Delta-10 are similar in many ways, but they also have a few key differences. Here, we’ll break down the difference in effects, availability, legality, and more between the two cannabinoids:
Table of Contents
As we mentioned, Delta-8 and Delta-10 are similar in many ways, but there are a few differences to take note of before trying either product. The primary areas where the two differ are their potency, effects, and price point. To clearly illustrate the difference in Delta-8 vs Delta-10, we’ll break down all of their similarities and differences:
Because research is limited, it's difficult to actually pinpoint the true potency of Delta-8 or Delta-10 in comparison to traditional Delta-9-THC products. Still, we know that both Delta-8 and Delta-10 are thought to be slightly less potent than Delta-9.
Delta-8 is thought to possess about half the potency of Delta-9 according to one preliminary study. Some sources report that Delta-10 is even less potent than Delta-8, though it’s hard to determine how much less potent the cannabinoid actually is.
We want to clarify that by “potency” we mean the cannabinoid's affinity for the CB1 receptors in the brain, which is the cannabinoid receptor responsible for inducing psychoactive effects. The actual potency or intensity of effects you experience from a particular product has a lot to do with your personal THC tolerance, body weight, and the dosage that you take. In general, though, a dose of Delta-10 will produce slightly less potent psychoactive effects than the same dose of Delta-8.
Again, research is limited in terms of understanding the effects of either Delta-8 or Delta-10. Many consumers who have experienced both do note some significant differences.
Most commonly, Delta-8-THC is described as having effects that are more relaxed, but not quite sedating. Some users describe Delta-8 as having effects that more closely mimic indica strains of cannabis. Delta-10, on the other hand, is described as being more uplifting and energizing. It's effects may be more similar to sativa cannabis strains.
These differences spur some preference regarding their general use, but the two do have some things in common. For instance, both Delta-8 and Delta-10 are described as being less likely to induce some of the negative side effects that are sometimes associated with THC, like anxiety and paranoia.
Note that these effects may not always hold true. For instance, Delta-8 distillate can be added to a variety of different strains of hemp flower. A sativa strain of Delta-8 flower, like Pineapple Haze, may provide the uplifting, energizing effects you expect from a sativa.
In terms of legality, Delta-8 and Delta-10 are virtually the same. Both of these cannabinoids are derived from legal hemp material, both are made from CBD through similar methods. That means that they both fall under the definition for legal hemp products used in the 2018 Farm Bill, and they're both legal by federal standards.
Of course, some states have created laws that specifically ban Delta-8 products, and many of those states have also singled out Delta-10 as an illicit substance or established broad hemp-derived THC laws that also make Delta-10 illegal. To find out if Delta-8 is legal in your state, read “Where is Delta 8 THC Legal? A State By State Guide to Delta-8 Laws.”
Although both Delta-8 and Delta-10 are technically legal according to federal law, Delta-8 is currently far more accessible than Delta-10. One reason is that Delta-8 has been in circulation for much longer, and consumers are generally much more trusting of Delta-8. That has spurred demand, which has influenced many CBD brands to hop on the Delta-8 train. Delta-10, however, is a little bit harder to find, and because it's a newer technology, Delta-10 products may not always be trustworthy.
In short, both cannabinoids are legally accessible in most states, but high-quality Delta-8-THC may be much easier to find.
There's no evidence that proves either Delta-8 or Delta-10 to be unsafe, but there is more research available regarding the use and safety of Delta-8.
For instance, one of the most heavily cited studies about Delta-8 found it to be 100% effective at reducing nausea and vomiting in pediatric cancer patients, noting that it was much less likely to produce any adverse effect than Delta-9-THC.
The study suggests that Delta-8 was safe for therapeutic use even in children, and no such study currently exists for Delta-10. That's not to say that Delta-10 is inherently unsafe, of course, and time will likely allow researchers an opportunity to fill this gap in evidence.
It's hard to compare the average dosage of Delta-8 and Delta-10 because dosage size generally depends on many unique factors, like tolerance, body weight, and desired effects.
In general the dosages used are pretty similar and usually range from 5 to 25 mg of each cannabinoid. Delta-10 is a little more difficult to produce, so many Delta-10 products offer lower doses, while you may find Delta-8 products that offer potent doses as high as 50 mg.
In terms of the different types of products available, virtually anything goes for both Delta-8 and Delta-10. There may be a wider variety of Delta-8 products available, but that is simply because the Delta-8 market is more developed. Essentially, both Delta-8 and Delta-10 can be found in tincture form, as edibles, as raw hemp flower, or in vaporizer form.
Delta-8-THC undeniably comes at a more affordable price point than Delta-10, but that may not always be the case. Because Delta-10 is a bit newer, it's prices are likely inflated as it rides a trend.
Plus, the manufacturing techniques used to make Delta-10 are still pretty new, which means the manufacturing cost may be higher. Both Delta-8 and Delta-10 can be found at reasonable prices from high-quality hemp brands, but Delta-8 is currently the more affordable option.
One primary benefit to Delta-8 compared to Delta-9 is that it is known to be much more shelf stable. Experts theorize that this potentially makes Delta-8 more useful for pharmaceutical applications.
Delta-8, when stored properly, can last for months. Luckily, Delta-10 is equally as stable and can last a long time when stored under similar conditions. To learn more about how to extend the shelf life of your hemp-derived THC, read “Storing Delta-8-THC.”
If you’re still stuck comparing Delta-8 vs Delta-10 to decide which is right for you, here are our final thoughts:
Delta-8 has established a name for itself in the hemp community and is known for providing a smooth and reliable ride. It also comes at a price point that's much more affordable than many traditional THC products. Some sources report that Delta-8 may be useful for pain, managing anxiety, or supporting sleep.
You may also find a broader variety of product styles, like Delta-8 Flower or Sublingual-style Edibles.
Much less is known about Delta-10's effects, and it will likely come at a higher price point. Still, most people agree that Delta-10 has great therapeutic potential, especially if you need a legal THC product that's stimulating and energizing.
In reality, it may be useful to keep both on hand since Delta-8 and Delta-10 may both be useful in different situations. If you want to shop for legal, hemp-derived THC products, check out ourElev8 Collection.
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