THCa vs Delta 8: What’s The Difference?

September 04, 2024

Since the 2018 Farm Bill made hemp-derived products legal, the cannabis world has exploded with new options. Two of the most talked-about are THCa and Delta 8 THC. If you’re confused about these, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll break down what THCa and Delta 8 are, how they’re different, their legal status, and more. So, stick with us as we dive into THCa vs. Delta 8 and help you figure out which one might be your new go-to.

THCa vs Delta 8 Terms to Know:

Before we dive in, let’s get familiar with some key terms you’ll see in this article:

• Cannabinoid: A compound in cannabis that interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system.

• Psychoactive: The ability to produce a high by changing brain function.

• THC: The well-known psychoactive compound in cannabis that gives you that high feeling.

• THCa: The non-psychoactive precursor of Delta 9 THC found in raw cannabis. It only turns into THC when heated.

• Delta 8 THC: A cannabinoid that’s mildly psychoactive, similar to Delta 9 THC, but less intense.

• Decarboxylation: The process of heating cannabis to turn THCa into psychoactive THC.

What Is THCa?

Let’s start with THCa. Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, or THCa, is the raw form of THC—the compound that gets you high. You’ll find THCa in large amounts in raw cannabis and hemp flowers. But here’s the thing: THCa itself doesn’t get you high. It’s only when THCa is turned into THC that the psychoactive effects kick in.

Think of THCa as the starting point for THC. All THC in cannabis begins as THCa in the plant. This transformation from THCa to THC happens when you add heat—a process called decarboxylation. This occurs naturally when you smoke, vape, or heat cannabis for cooking.

That’s why THCa has become so popular in the U.S. Most users want to convert THCa into THC to experience the high. In the past, getting THC products meant visiting a state-licensed dispensary due to legal restrictions.

But here’s the exciting part: With the rise of online THCa flower sales, you can now buy THCa products that give you the same high. And the best part? It’s legal, all-natural, and comes straight from the plant to you.

What Is Delta 8 THC?

Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, or Delta 8, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, but only in tiny amounts. It’s a weaker version of the more popular Delta 9 THC, sharing the same chemical structure with a few key differences. In its natural form, Delta 8 is present in less than 1% of most cannabis strains, making it impractical to extract directly from the plant for commercial use.

However, scientists discovered a process called isomerization that can convert CBD into Delta 8 THC. This breakthrough is what kick-started the Delta 8 industry and made this rare cannabinoid available to consumers.

Although Delta 8 is naturally occurring, its scarcity means most Delta 8 products are made through this conversion process. Even though it’s synthesized, Delta 8 behaves similarly to Delta 9 THC. It produces a high, but users often describe it as a milder experience compared to the traditional THC experience.

In short, Delta 8 offers a balanced alternative for those seeking THC-like effects, sitting somewhere between the calm of CBD and the more potent effects of Delta 9 THC.

THCa vs. Delta 8

Let’s compare THCa and Delta 8 across several key factors.

Related article:

THCA vs THC: What is the difference?

Chemical Structure

THCa and Delta 8 have different molecular structures that affect their effects. THCA has an extra carboxyl group that gives THCa its non-psychoactive nature, as it prevents the compound from binding to the same receptors in the brain that THC does.

We mentioned before that THCa converts to THC through Decarboxylation; now, how does that happen? Heat removes this extra carboxyl group.

Delta 8, however, is structurally similar to Delta 9 THC but with a double bond on the 8th carbon chain instead of the 9th. This might sound like science mumbo-jumbo, but it gives Delta 8 its unique milder psychoactive effects.

Effects

Although both will get you high, the effects of THCA and the effects of delta 8 are different in terms of intensity. THC from THCa gives you the full-strength psychoactive effects that cannabis is known for.

Delta 8 is milder. Most users report feeling clear-headed and focused with Delta 8, with less anxiety and paranoia than with traditional THC.

If you want the classic THC experience, THCa products are the way to go. If you find THC too strong, Delta 8 might be the better option.

Potency

When comparing THCa to Delta 8, it’s clear that converted THCa packs a more potent punch. That’s because when THCa is heated, it converts into Delta 9 THC, which is known for its powerful psychoactive properties. This conversion makes THCa products significantly more potent than Delta 8, often delivering a more intense and full-bodied high.

But don’t count Delta 8 out just yet. Often dubbed “diet weed” due to its milder effects, Delta 8 is about 50-70% as potent as Delta 9 THC. This can be an excellent option for those who find traditional THC too strong or prefer a more functional high. Many people love Delta 8 for its ability to relax and uplift their mood without the overwhelming intensity of full-strength THC.

Consumption Methods

THCa

Most THCa consumers seek psychoactive effects, so THCa products are designed to be heated or decarboxylated to convert into THC. Popular THCa products include:

• Pre-rolls

• Flower

• Concentrates

These forms can be quickly heated through smoking, vaping, or dabbing, providing a rapid onset of effects.

Delta 8 THC

Delta 8 THC is available in a variety of ready-to-use forms that don’t require heating to activate the compound. These products are convenient and include:

• Gummies

• Vape cartridges

• Tinctures

• Topicals

• Other edibles

With Delta 8, you can enjoy the effects without any extra steps.

Availability

Access to THCa and Delta 8 THC usually depends on the cannabis laws in your area. However, generally, they are both easy to find and readily available. They can be found in dispensaries and online stores like Bay Smokes!

Cost Comparison

THCa products, especially raw cannabis flower, are generally cheaper than processed Delta 8 products. However, concentrated THCa products can be pricey because of the extraction process.

Delta 8 products have a higher price tag because of the processing. Still, prices are decreasing in many areas as the market gets more competitive.

Legality

Both Delta 8 and THCa are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, provided they are derived from hemp and contain less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC.

The main difference is that THCa converts to THC when heated, while Delta 8 does not. However, this distinction doesn’t affect their legal status, as THCa is typically not sold in its converted form.

Disclaimer: Even though Delta 8 and THCa are legal under U.S. federal law, they are still considered controlled substances in some states and jurisdictions. Always check your state laws before purchasing or using these products.

Related: State-by-State legality of THCA guide.

Drug Tests

Both THCa and Delta 8 can cause a failed drug test. Standard tests look for THC metabolites, which are produced when your body processes any form of THC.

It’s a common myth that Delta 8 won’t show up on drug tests. While it’s somehow different from Delta 9 THC, your body processes it the same way and produces the same metabolites that tests detect.

Benefits Of THCA vs. Delta-8 THC

By now, you know that when you heat THCA, it converts to THC. So, you can expect the same benefits as traditional THC. Delta 8 is similar but milder. Let’s look at the potential benefits of activated THCA and Delta 8.

THCA Benefits:

Euphoria: When heated, THCA converts to THC, and you get a full-bodied high that can boost your mood big time.

Creativity: Many users report increased creativity and new perspectives, which is why it’s popular among artists and problem solvers.

Deep Relaxation: Expect deep physical and mental relaxation at higher doses, which can relieve stress.

Sensory Amplification: Users often experience heightened sensory perception; colors are more vivid, and music is more immersive.

Appetite Stimulation: The famous “munchies” effect can be a blessing for those who struggle with appetite issues.

Delta 8 Benefits:

Mild Euphoria: Delta 8 offers a gentle, clear-headed high, making it ideal for those seeking a more subtle experience.

Less Anxiety: Many users report feeling less anxiety and paranoia with Delta 8 compared to Delta 9 THC, making it a good choice for those who get anxious from cannabis.

Enhanced Focus: Some users find that Delta 8 helps improve focus without the “brain fog” often associated with traditional THC.

Relaxation Without Sedation: Delta 8 provides a body high without the intense couch lock, allowing you to stay functional.

Appetite Boost: Like other forms of THC, Delta 8 can stimulate your appetite.

Important Considerations

Individual results may vary, and the therapeutic benefits can differ based on the strain. For instance, THCa from sativa strains might be more energetic and uplifting, while Indica THCa tends to be more relaxing and sedating.

While Delta 8 doesn’t have strain variations, its effects can still differ depending on the individual and the specific product used.

Both THCa and Delta 8 can have side effects like dry mouth and red eyes, so always start with a low dose and go slow when trying new cannabis products.

Where To Buy Delta 8 THC Products

Suppose you’re intrigued by Delta 8 THC and want to explore its unique effects. In that case, you’ll be pleased to know that Bay Smokes offers a wide range of high-quality Delta 8 THC products.

Bay Smokes Delta 8 THC products include:

• Delta 8 Vapes

• Delta 8 Distillates

• Delta 8 Carts

• Delta 8 Tinctures

Where To Buy THCa Products?

If you’re curious about experiencing the full effects of THC through THCa, Bay Smokes has you covered with a fantastic selection of premium THCa cannabis products!

Here’s what we offer:

• THCA Flower

• THCA Pre Rolls

• THCA Vape Cartridges

• THCA Concentrates

• THCA Diamonds

• THCA Gummies

• THCA Disposable Vapes

Why Choose Bay Smokes?

At Bay Smokes, we prioritize quality and transparency. All our hemp plant products are third-party and tested for purity and potency ensuring you only get the best. We source our hemp from U.S. farms, so you know you’re getting top-notch products.

So, which do you prefer: Delta 8 or THCa? Explore our collections to find the perfect product for your needs!

FAQS:

Is THCa better than Delta 8?

The choice between THCA and Delta 8 is a personal preference. Choose THCA if you want strong highs of traditional THC and Delta 8 if you want a milder experience with no overwhelming high.

Does THCa produce a high?

Yes, THCA produces a high when consumed through any method that involves heat, as it converts to the psychoactive cannabinoid Delta 9 THC.

How powerful is THCa?

Activated THCA is potent and can produce an intense high. THCA concentrates like diamonds, distillates, and sauces are even more potent and are favored by cannabis consumers with high tolerance.

Is THCA or Delta-9 stronger?

THCA and Delta 9 are equally strong in use, as THCA converts into Delta 9 once exposed to heat.

Is THCA safe to smoke?

Yes, THCa is safe to smoke when used responsibly and in moderation. Individual results may vary, but start low and go high as needed. Always buy from a reputable supplier to ensure quality and purity, as the FDA does not regulate THCA.

Learn how to smoke THCA in our step-by-step guide.

What is 99% THCA?

99% THCA is a highly concentrated THCA, usually in crystalline form. It’s almost pure THCA before decarboxylation.

What is the benefit of THCA?

THCA benefits, once converted to THC, include euphoria, enhanced creativity, relaxation, improved sleep, and appetite stimulation.