THC comes in many forms. The term “THC” by itself usually refers to Delta 9 THC, the dominant psychoactive chemical found in hemp and cannabis.
That’s just one of many, however.
More than 140 other cannabinoids are present in these plants, according to the Journal of Cannabis Research. That includes CBD as well as Delta 8 and Delta 11. A wide variety of federally legal cannabinoids are now available on the market in most states.
Delta 8 vs. 11: How do they compare to each other? What sets them apart, and what similarities do they share? Let’s review each of these cannabinoids, then take a closer look at how they compare to each other.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 THC, often just called or written as Delta 8, Delta-8, or D8, is a psychoactive chemical. Specifically, it’s a cannabinoid. That means it has psychoactive effects and comes from cannabis or hemp plants.
Delta 8 rapidly increased in popularity following the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill.That federal act legalized commercial hemp containing less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC, as Healthline reminds us.
Delta 9 is the most common type of cannabinoid. It’s what most cannabis users are talking about when they just say “THC” or discuss a cannabis high. However, many cannabinoids have psychoactive effects, including Delta 11 THC and Delta-8.
Most importantly when it comes to Delta 8 and similar chemicals, a market for these cannabinoids emerged. The new law made it easier to research different cannabinoids and find effective ones.
Beyond legalizing their sale, this change in law also dramatically increased interest in non-Delta 9 cannabinoids. That’s a key part of what led us to this article’s topic, Delta 11 vs. Delta-8, being relevant.
Now, a variety of Delta 8 products are available, like Delta 8 gummies, flower, and vapes.
Where Does Delta 8 Come From?
Delta 8 is a psychoactive (meaning it causes intoxication) compound found in cannabis and hemp plants, called a cannabinoid.
It occurs naturally. It can also be synthesized through chemical reactions using another common cannabinoid, CBD, as a base. This is where most commercially available Delta 8 comes from.
How Do Delta 8 and Delta 9 Compare?
The easiest way to understand Delta 8 on a practical level is a comparison. Specifically, comparing Delta 8 to Delta 9.
Delta 9 is established and recognized, while Delta 8 is a newer entrant to the market. Their similarities and differences can help us understand how Delta 8 works.
Delta 8 is very similar to, but chemically distinct from, Delta 9 THC. Our Ultimate Guide to Delta 8 shares plenty of details, but the key points to keep in mind are:
- Delta 8 and Delta 9 differ in the placement of a few atomic bonds
- Delta 8 is less potent than Delta 9, but is more stable and long-lasting
- Delta 8 binds to cannabinoid receptors (which ultimately leads to a high), but not as well as Delta 9
What is Delta 8 Used For?
Delta 8 is often used for pain relief or to generally relax. Many users report positive feelings during a Delta 8 high. While not exactly the same as Delta 9, Delta 8 has similar effects in the big picture.
Side effects can include dry mouth and temporary, mild issues with memory. While everyone experiences cannabinoids differently, most users find the side effects to be minor.
Does Delta 8 THC Get You High?
Yes, Delta 8 has psychoactive properties similar to Delta 9 and some other cannabinoids. D8 is not as strong in a 1:1 molecular comparison as Delta 9. However, high-quality Delta 8 brands carefully set and adjust the levels of cannabinoids present in their products. That means you can count on their potency and effects.
What is Delta 11 THC?
Delta 11 THC is often called Delta 11 and sometimes shortened to D11. It is a psychoactive compound found in hemp and cannabis plants. It has a very similar but chemically distinct structure as compared to other Delta cannabinoids.
It is just emerging as a product option from companies offering hemp-derived, federally legal cannabinoids. Delta 11 is very new. That means there isn’t as much information available about it as there is for some other cannabinoids.
Where Does Delta 11 THC Come From?
Delta 11 naturally occurs in hemp and cannabis plants, just like Delta 8, Delta 9, CBD, and many others. It can also be created in a lab using specific chemical reactions and processes. This is where most Delta 11 sold commercially comes from.
Delta 11 products are just starting to emerge on the market as of early 2023. They’re starting to gain popularity with users, however, and could become more common in the near future.
What are the Effects of Delta 11?
Delta 11 is still so new that it’s hard to quantify the exact effects it offers, as CBD Incubator explains. However, user reports often include effects like pain relief and relaxation. Being so chemically similar to other cannabinoids, it’s not surprising that the effects of Delta 11 are similar, too.
Is Delta 11 Stronger than Delta 8?
Preliminary insights say yes. Delta 11 is likely stronger than Delta 8, at least in a 1:1 comparison. More research is needed, however, to scientifically determine differences in potency and other variations in Delta 11’s effects on users.
On a practical level, it can be enough to remember Delta 11 is likely one of the stronger federally legal cannabinoids. Keep that higher potency in mind when you choose to use D11.
How Do People Use Delta 11 THC?
Delta 11 products are still making their way to the market. However, people are already buying and using Delta 11 edibles, vapes, and more. There is a variety of products available already, with more potentially on their way.
Delta 8 vs. Delta 11: Key Similarities and Differences
We’ve already touched on a few ways in which Delta 11 and Delta 8 are similar and different. Here’s a closer look at Delta 11 THC vs. Delta-8.
How are Delta 8 and Delta 11 Similar?
Key similarities between Delta 11 and Delta 8 include:
- Chemical structures: The only major difference between the two is the position of a double bond on a carbon chain
- Effects: While potency varies, overall effects are similar
- Source: Delta 8 and Delta 11 are both ultimately sourced from cannabis and hemp plants
- Methods of consumption for users: D8 and D11 are both often found in vape pens, edibles, and similar products.
What are the Differences Between Delta 8 THC and Delta 11 THC?
In the Delta 11 vs. Delta 8 debate, key differences include:
- Knowledge of the individual cannabinoid: Delta 8 is relatively well understood, information around Delta 11 is still emerging
- Potency: While more research is needed, Delta 11 is likely significantly stronger than Delta 8
- Market presence: D8 is one of the most popular and well-known options, while D11 is still building a reputation
Can I Take Delta 8 and Delta 11 Together?
While the specific combination of Delta 8 and Delta 11 isn’t yet well understood, they could have complementary effects. There aren’t any apparent indications that combining the two leads to serious negative outcomes.
By taking CBD along with Delta 8, Delta 11, or both, you may be able to benefit from the Entourage Effect. This theory states that various forms of THC and other chemicals found in hemp plants work together when consumed together. The result is a stronger and more robust experience.
As is the case with any new combination, just be sure to start with small doses. Wait to feel their effects before deciding to take more. Everyone experiences cannabis differently, so a careful approach can definitely pay off.
Delta 8, Delta 11, and Everything in Between From Delta 8 Resellers
Whether you’re looking for Delta 8, Delta 11, or a variety of other cannabinoids, Delta 8 Resellers has you covered.
We stock only the highest-quality brands and share all product lab reports, so you can make an informed decision. Results from independent lab analysis let you know exactly what’s in the products you’re considering for purchase. That’s not something every retailer offers, so it’s especially important to keep in mind.
