# Delta-8 THC

> Delta-8 THC is an isomer of THC with the double bond shifted one position; the plant makes only traces, so commercial delta-8 is semi-synthetic, usually converted from CBD.

- Canonical: https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/delta-8-thc.html
- Also written: Δ8-THC, delta 8, d8, delta-8, delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol
- Glossary category: Cannabinoids and terpenes · Evidence: Established
- Status: Draft: awaiting expert review · Updated: 2026-10-31
- Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/), attribute "GenetixBay cannabis glossary"

Delta-8 THC (Δ8-THC) is an isomer of [Δ9-THC](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/thc.md): the same atoms, with the ring double bond in a different position. It is chemically more stable than Δ9-THC and forms naturally only in trace amounts in cannabis. Its reported effects are described as similar to but milder than Δ9-THC; human data are limited.

## In practice

Almost all delta-8 sold today is semi-synthetic: [CBD](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/cbd.md) (often from [hemp](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/hemp.md)) is chemically converted with acids and solvents. That process can leave by-products, other isomers and residues that a standard potency panel does not identify, which is why independent testing of these products often finds unlabeled compounds. GenetixBay is about growing plants; it gives no conversion methods. Legal status varies widely and changes often; check local rules.

## Don't confuse with

- **Δ9-THC**: the main THC isomer the plant (via [THCA](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/thca.md)) actually produces.
- **HHC**: a hydrogenated derivative, also semi-synthetic.
- **THCV**: a natural varin [cannabinoid](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/cannabinoid.md), not a THC isomer.

## Related terms

[THC](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/thc.md), [HHC](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/hhc.md), [CBD](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/cbd.md), [Cannabinoid](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/cannabinoid.md), [Isolate](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/isolate.md)

## Sources

1. Hanuš LO, Meyer SM, Muñoz E, Taglialatela-Scafati O, Appendino G. 2016. Phytocannabinoids: a unified critical inventory. Natural Product Reports 33(12):1357-1392.
2. ElSohly MA, Slade D. 2005. Chemical constituents of marijuana: the complex mixture of natural cannabinoids. Life Sciences 78(5):539-548.