Are you struggling with anxiety every day?
Research says some folks turn to cannabinoids to help ease theirs, but which cannabinoids is best? There are various types of cannabinoids available in the market today, making it difficult to find which ones work best for you.
Some of the major kinds of cannabinoids for anxiety are Delta 8 and Delta 9. Today, cannabinoids (especially Delta 8) have gained a lot of popularity among consumers worldwide.
But the question still lies—is Delta 8 or Delta 9 better for anxiety?
If you're unsure which one, keep reading – you'll find out today!
Delta 8 and Delta 9 are two different cannabinoids, both containing THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)—the chemical compound found in cannabis dealing with psychoactive effects (that makes you feel high). They work similarly in your system but are a bit different in their molecular structure and effects.
Delta 9 THC is the most known and potent cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It's the primary psychoactive component that gives you a strong, intoxicating feeling, similar to consuming marijuana. Delta 9 binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system, leading to the psychoactive effects experienced by users. It's also found in higher concentrations in marijuana and is often illegal in many places.
Delta 8 THC is a weaker version (milder) of Delta 9. Delta 8 is in much smaller concentrations in cannabis plants. It has a slightly different molecular structure, which results in a less intense psychoactive effect (It still makes you feel high, but not as much as Delta 9). Folks have reported that Delta 8 offers a smoother, more clear-headed high than Delta 9, with reduced anxiety and paranoia.
Simply put, Delta 8 gives you a milder, more relaxed feeling with fewer negative side effects. At the same time, Delta 9 is stronger and can make you feel more high and potentially anxious or paranoid. Both can help with pain and relaxation, but Delta 9 is more intense and better for those who want a strong high or need significant relief.
What is Delta 8 THC & Delta 9 THC?

How Does Delta 8 & Delta 9 Make You Feel?
Delta 8 and Delta 9 interact with the body's endocannabinoid system in a slightly different manner. The endocannabinoid system's role is to regulate the physiological processes in your body, like your mood, appetite, pain sensation, and memory. Isn't it amazing how our body functions? While both share some similarities in their effects, they have distinct differences due to their molecular structures, which influence how they interact with your body's cannabinoid receptors. Let's hear what folks have said about how Delta 8 and Delta 9 might make you feel;Delta 8 | Delta 9 |
Delta 8 is often said to be less strong than Delta 9, so it gives a more relaxed, clear-headed feeling. | Delta 9 is stronger than Delta 8, so it gives a more intense high and can make you feel more intoxicated. |
Folks often report about feeling calm and relaxed without getting too high or intoxicated. | It can lead to euphoria, change how you perceive time and space, and heighten your senses. |
Delta 8 usually causes less anxiety and paranoia compared to Delta 9, making it better for those who are sensitive to the effects of regular THC or want a gentler experience. | Delta 9 has a higher chance of causing anxiety, paranoia, or other uncomfortable feelings, especially if you're sensitive to THC or take a lot of it. |
It can also provide pain relief and relaxation, but with a milder high. | Delta 9 can be good if you want a powerful high or need strong relief from symptoms like pain. |
How Does Delta 8 Help with Anxiety?
Everyone's big question—does Delta 8 help with anxiety? Yes, it does! Anecdotal research and customers say that Delta 8 can help with anxiety. Here's how;Anxiety Reducing Properties
Delta 8 has anxiolytic properties that reduce anxiety. It interacts with the CB1 receptors in the brain responsible for regulating your mood and stress, lowering anxiety levels.Helps in Relaxation
Delta 8 induces relaxation and improves mood, which helps in dealing with stress and anxiety. This relaxation effect can make it easier to manage daily stress and may lead to a more positive mood.Calming Effects
Anxiety often affects sleep quality, creating a cycle of stress and tiredness that makes anxiety worse. Delta 8 can also help improve sleep quality due to its calming effects, breaking this cycle. Better sleep can have a big impact on stress and well-being.Preferred Choice for Anxiety
Compared to Delta 9, Delta 8 is less likely to cause paranoia and anxiety, especially at high doses, making Delta 8 a preferable option for those who are sensitive to THC-induced anxiety but still want the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids. The research on Delta 8 is still in its early stages, and folks need more studies to understand its benefits and potential side effects fully. Suppose you're considering Delta 8 for anxiety relief. In that case, it's necessary to start with a low dose and increase gradually to find the right amount for anxiety relief without adverse effects. The effects of Delta 8 are based on the dose, the individual's body chemistry, and how much they can take in THC.How Does Delta 9 Help with Anxiety?
Is Delta 9 good for anxiety? Both have a complex relationship with each other. To figure that out, we need to take a closer look at how Delta 9 interacts with anxiety.Can Help with Anxiety for;
- For some folks, low doses of Delta 9 make them feel relaxed and happy, which can help with anxiety. It can enhance mood, provide a sense of well-being, and distract from stressful thoughts.
- In some cases, doctors use Delta 9 as medicine to manage anxiety and other mental health conditions, along with CBD (cannabidiol), to reduce THC's anxiety-inducing potential.
Can Worsen Anxiety for Others;
- High doses of Delta 9 are more likely to cause anxiety, paranoia, and panic attacks, especially in individuals with a predisposition to anxiety or those who are new to cannabis.
- Some folks are more sensitive to THC and may experience anxiety even at lower doses. Genetics, existing mental health conditions, and previous experiences with cannabis influence this sensitivity.
- The environment and the mood can affect how you feel. Being in an uncomfortable place or already feeling anxious can worsen Delta 9's effects.