Delta-8-THC is an analog of delta-9-THC, a molecule with a similar structure but some notable differences. While the two share similar properties, such as reportedly stimulating appetite, reducing nausea, and soothing pain, delta-8-THC tends to exhibit a lower psychotropic potency than delta-9-THC.

Delta-8-THC is a minor cannabinoid, occurring in minimal concentrations. Therefore, commercial growers and extractors often use selective breeding and molecular isolation to access more significant quantities of delta-8-THC.