Delta 8 vs. CBD

Delta-8 is having a moment online, but then you remember you live in the UK, not TikTok.

CBD is the legal, non-psychoactive strain. Delta-8 is the risky detour.

If you are curious, below, we lay out the key differences, the real safety issues, and what the UK rules mean before you buy anything.

Quick Answer - Delta-8 vs. CBD Key Differences

Delta-8 is THC, so it has psychoactive properties. CBD is non psychoactive, so it should not make you high. 

Both come from hemp plants and cannabis plants, but their chemical structures lead to different effects.

What Is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a cannabinoid from the cannabis plant, especially the hemp plant. It does not have the classic psychoactive properties of THC.

A World Health Organization review said CBD is generally well-tolerated with a good safety profile, with a key caution around interactions with other medications.

People look to CBD for possible therapeutic benefits like a calmer mood, sleep support, and anti inflammatory properties, including comfort in chronic pain.

If you want an easy way to take it, our UK cans have 32mg of full-spectrum CBD, plus minor cannabinoids and terpenes, and with different flavours:

• Raspberry Coconut CBD

• Mint & Lime CBD

• Piña CBD

• Raspberry Lemonade CBD

What Is Delta-8?

Delta-8 THC is in the THC family. It occurs naturally, but only in tiny amounts. So most Delta-8 products are made using extraction methods that convert CBD into Delta-8. 

That lab conversion can raise purity risks, including harmful chemicals.

The US FDA has warned that Delta-8 products have not been evaluated for safe use and that adverse event reports have been linked to these products.

The problem is that you can end up buying an intoxicating product with unclear dosing, inconsistent lab testing, and possible leftovers from the conversion process.

How Delta-8 and CBD Work in the Body (Effects, Benefits & Side Effects)

Both compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system. Think of it as the body’s balance network. 

It uses cannabinoid receptors, mainly CB1 and CB2, across the central nervous system and beyond.

Delta-8 binds more strongly to CB1, which explains the buzz. CBD seems to support the system more indirectly.

For CBD, one clinical case series in The Permanente Journal tracked 72 adults taking CBD for anxiety or sleep. Anxiety scores dropped in 79.2% in the first month, and sleep improved in 66.7%, though results shifted.

For Delta-8, a survey in the Journal of Cannabis Research found that most users reported relaxation and euphoria, and fewer reported anxiety than with Delta-9. Still, many reported time distortion and trouble concentrating. Anecdotal evidence suggests “milder”, but it still affects the brain.

Is Delta-8 Legal vs CBD? Safety, Regulation & Product Quality

In the UK, Delta-8 is not a “grey area” treat. It is THC. Government guidance on cannabis, CBD, and other cannabinoids explains that controlled cannabinoids require licensing unless an exemption applies. Delta-8 sale and supply are not legal without that licensing.

In the UK, CBD is legal when it comes from approved hemp derived products, and the finished product stays within strict THC limits.

CBD drinks also fall under the UK’s novel foods rules, which means brands are expected to have proper safety data, clear labelling, and traceable manufacturing. That is why third-party lab reports (like our lab certificates), batch consistency, and transparent ingredients matter so much.

And when it comes to drug tests, Delta-8 will surely show up, because it is THC. While CBD is unlikely to trigger a positive. But it still depends on whether it’s isolate or full-spectrum cbd.

If you have a workplace test coming up, you can read our CBD drug test guide.

Side Effects - Delta-8 vs CBD

Both Delta-8 and CBD can cause side effects, even when the product is made well.

But the key difference is that Delta-8 has psychoactive properties, so it can change how you think and react. That makes the “oops” moments more common.

Here are the side effects of Delta-8:

• Drowsiness

• Dizziness

• Anxiety

• Confusion

• Nausea

• Faster heart rate

• Dry mouth

CBD is non-psychoactive, so the side effects tend to feel milder and easier to manage. Most issues come from taking too much, mixing with other medications, or using low-quality CBD products.

So, the side effects of CBD are:

• Dry mouth

• Sleepiness

• Upset stomach

• Fatigue

• Reduced appetite

When we compare the two, Delta-8 is the higher risk option in the UK. It can intoxicate you, it can raise the chance of a failed drug test, and product quality is harder to trust. CBD is safe, legal, better studied, and usually easier to dose calmly and safely.

What to Choose Instead of Delta-8 in the UK

If you want calm without legal risk, CBD is the best option in the UK right now. You still get the relaxing, steady feel many CBD users want, but without the psychoactive nature of THC or the messy quality issues linked to Delta-8 conversion.

It is also easier to dose, easier to trust, and far more sensible if you have work, family, or a driving licence you would like to keep.

If you want a simple way to start, our 32mg full-spectrum cans make it easy. Pick Mint and Lime for a fresh, crisp sip, go smooth with Piña, or grab the Mix Pack and find your favourite.

FAQ

Will Delta-8 CBD test positive?

Yes. Delta-8 is THC, so tests flag it. Full-spectrum CBD may also risk positives.

Is Delta-8 stronger than CBD?

Yes. Delta-8 has mild psychoactive effects. CBD is non-psychoactive and more subtle.

Can Delta-8 get you high?

Yes. Delta-8 can cause mild euphoria and impairment, even if it feels “lighter.”

Why is Delta-8 banned in the UK?

It counts as THC under UK controlled substances rules, so sale and supply are illegal.

Is CBD safer than Delta-8?

Usually, yes. CBD is better studied, easier to dose, and legal when compliant.

Should I avoid Delta-8 products online in the UK?

Yes. Quality varies, legality is risky, and you may not know what you are taking.