The world of cannabinoids is evolving fast, and one compound that keeps attracting attention is delta 8 THC. Marketed as a smoother, more balanced alternative to traditional cannabis, delta 8 has gained popularity among users looking for a gentler high. But with so much hype, many people still ask: what is delta 8 THC, how does it compare to delta 9, and is delta 8 THC safe?
In this guide, we’ll break it all down — from the effects to benefits, where to buy delta 8 THC in Europe and why quality and safety matter more than ever.
What is Delta 8 THC?
Delta 8 THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Chemically, it’s very similar to delta 9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, but with a small structural difference. This change reduces its potency and makes its effects more subtle.
Key facts about delta 8 THC:
Found in very small amounts in hemp and cannabis plants.
Most commercial delta 8 products are made by converting CBD into delta 8 through a safe chemical process.
Delta 8 provides psychoactive effects but is often described as smoother, clearer, and less overwhelming than delta 9.
Delta 8 THC vs Delta 9 THC
The biggest difference between delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC is potency. Delta 9 is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis and produces the strongest effects, while delta 8 is roughly fifty to seventy percent as powerful. This makes delta 8’s high milder and easier to manage, often described as calmer and clearer, whereas delta 9 can sometimes cause anxiety or paranoia in sensitive users.
Their origins also differ. Delta 9 occurs naturally in high amounts in cannabis and has been widely studied, while delta 8 is only present in trace levels. Most delta 8 products are created by converting hemp-derived CBD into delta 8 THC. This makes product quality and lab testing especially important, since poor production can leave harmful residues.
Legality separates them as well. Delta 9 is heavily regulated worldwide, usually only accessible through medical or recreational programs. Delta 8 has been marketed in a legal grey zone in some regions, but in Europe it is typically restricted in the same way as delta 9.
Both cannabinoids act on the body’s endocannabinoid system, offering overlapping benefits such as pain relief, appetite stimulation, and relaxation. The key distinction is intensity: delta 9 delivers the full, traditional cannabis effect, while delta 8 provides a smoother middle ground for users who want balance without being overwhelmed.
Delta 8 THC vs HHC
While delta 8 THC and HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) are often mentioned together as legal cannabis alternatives, they are not the same compound and produce noticeably different effects. Delta 8 is a THC isomer that delivers a psychoactive experience similar to delta 9 THC, but at around half the strength. Users typically describe it as a smoother, calmer high that still feels distinctly like cannabis. HHC, by contrast, is a hydrogenated cannabinoid that is chemically more stable and often said to produce effects that are slightly weaker than delta 9, but stronger and more physical than delta 8.
Another difference lies in production. Delta 8 is usually made by converting hemp-derived CBD through a controlled process, while HHC is produced by hydrogenating THC or its derivatives, making it resistant to oxidation and giving it a longer shelf life. This stability has made HHC popular for vaping products, since it tends to hold potency over time better than many other cannabinoids.
Legality is also a shared challenge. Both delta 8 THC and HHC have been marketed in a grey area where hemp-derived cannabinoids are tolerated, but in much of Europe they are treated in the same way as delta 9 THC — meaning they are restricted or outright illegal.
In short, delta 8 THC vs HHC comes down to preference. Delta 8 provides a lighter, clearer version of the classic cannabis high, while HHC often feels heavier and longer-lasting.
Delta 8 THC vs other cannaboids
| Compound | Psychoactive Strength (vs D9) | Reported Effects | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta 8 THC | ~50–70% of Delta 9 | Milder high, calm, clear-headed, functional | Often converted from CBD; smoother alternative to D9 |
| Delta 9 THC | 100% (baseline) | Strong euphoria, altered perception, appetite stimulation | Most researched; tightly regulated worldwide |
| Delta 10 THC | ~30–50% of Delta 9 | More uplifting, energetic, creative | Less common, weaker than Delta 8 and 9 |
| THCP | Up to 30× stronger than Delta 9 | Extremely potent; heavy psychoactive effects | Found in trace amounts in cannabis; synthetic scaling |
| HHC | ~70–80% of Delta 9 | Heavier body high, long-lasting relaxation | Chemically hydrogenated, more stable shelf life |
| THCA | Non-psychoactive (until heated) | No high in raw form; converts to D9 when vaped/smoked | Legal loophole product; common in “THCA flower” |
| THCV | ~25% of Delta 9 (mild) | Clear, stimulating; may suppress appetite | Rare; often marketed as “diet weed” |
| CBD | Non-psychoactive | Relaxation, anxiety relief, anti-inflammatory | Legal in most countries; balances THC effects |
IS delta 8 THC safe?
The question “is delta 8 THC safe?” depends on two important factors:
The compound itself – Delta 8 THC is considered safe when used responsibly. Its effects are comparable to delta 9 but milder, and most side effects (dry mouth, red eyes, drowsiness) are temporary.
The production process – Most delta 8 THC on the market is synthesized from CBD. If this conversion is done poorly, residual solvents or contaminants can remain in the product. This is why it’s crucial to buy only from trusted brands that provide COAs (Certificates of Analysis) to prove purity and safety.
The biggest safety risk isn’t delta 8 itself — it’s cheap, untested products. Always choose lab-tested, certified hardware and oils.
Our Favourite D8 THC Vape Cartridges
At TERPLABZ, we focus on safe THC vapes that combine premium oil with certified CCELL hardware. Delta 8 THC has become popular for its smoother, gentler high, and when it comes to D8 cartridges, our go-to is the 3g Curevana cart. With its larger capacity, clean oil, and smooth pull, it’s a reliable choice that delivers great value and a long-lasting experience.
Still, our true favourite overall isn’t a D8 cart — it’s the 2ml Delta 9 disposable. While delta 8 offers balance and clarity, nothing compares to the full-spectrum strength and authenticity of delta 9 THC, especially in a sleek, portable CCELL disposable.
Whether you lean towards D8 for smoothness or D9 for potency, TERPLABZ guarantees every product is lab-tested, COA-backed, and designed for safety and satisfaction.
