Does Delta 8 Smell Like Weed When Smoked?
Explore whether Delta-8 THC smells like weed when smoked, discover why it has a familiar aroma, and learn how terpenes affect its scent.
Written by Brandon Topp
Does Delta-8 Smell Like Weed When Smoked?
(TL;DR): Yes. Smoking Delta-8 flowers produces a distinct smell reminiscent of what most people know as weed.
Delta-8 THC has taken the cannabis world by storm over the last few years alongside a few other distinct cannabinoids.
For those who are dabbling with new hemp flower products and curious about how they compare to those you grew up with — we’re here to shed light on the situation.
While we’ve already stated that Delta-8 can smell like more popular hemp products, this in-depth guide will explain how and why that is.
Check out the Mood Shop to discover Delta-8 products like gummies, vapes, and more.
The Definition of Delta-8 THC
WebMD defines Delta-8 THC (or delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol) as “a naturally occurring chemical compound, called a cannabinoid, that’s found in traces in hemp and cannabis (marijuana) plants.”
Because Delta-8 occurs in such small amounts in the raw cannabis plant, professionals in a lab must extract it from cannabis plants to create Delta-8-forward products.
Pick up an eighth of these Delta-8 THC Moonrocks for just $40 today. Subscribe and save 15 percent.
Key Differences Between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC
Though by definition, Delta-9 THC is nearly identical to Delta-8 THC. The differences to note are as follows:
Delta-8 THC has a double bond on its 8th carbon chain, and Delta-9 THC has a double bond on its 9th carbon chain
Delta-8 THC derives from CBD or Delta-9 THC via a lab process called
isomerization. Delta-9 THC derives from heated or burned THCa via a process called
decarboxylation.
Federally legal dry cannabis products can contain any concentration of Delta-8 THC. Federally legal dry cannabis products can only contain 0.3 percent Delta-9 THC,
Delta-8 THC induces similar psychoactive effects to Delta-9 THC but is known to feel clearer and less intense.
Is Smoking Delta-8 Worth It?
Fans of smoking cannabis flowers enjoy trying various strains. Smoking Delta-8 THC can offer a new avenue of exploration and discovery.
You might find similar earthy aromas (what we call "weed smell") and comparable psychoactive takeaways, and at the very least, you will get a point of reference when Delta-8 THC comes up in conversation.
Beyond experimentation, Delta-8 THC might be better suited to vaping products, gummies, and concentrates.
A major part of the appeal of this cannabinoid is its ability to exist in any concentration in cannabis products, unlike Delta-9 THC. THCa cannabinoid that falls into this unrestricted gray area.
Different from Delta-8 THC, THCa actually converts into Delta-9 THC when you smoke it. For those who appreciate more familiar cannabis flowers, this is the way to go.
Check out Mood’s wide selection of THCa flowers today.
What Does Delta-8 THC Smell Like?
Delta-8 flowers and Delta-8 carts can feature the same terpenes and aromatic compounds as typical hemp products.
Similarly to Delta-9 products, flowers tend to be more skunky, with some Delta-8 vape products skewing towards being scentless depending on the level of distillate.
Smoking Delta-8 THC in environments where the smell of weed isn’t welcomed isn’t a good idea. The natural terpenes make these products smell distinctly like weed, which might bother a non smoker in the room.
For those still looking to kick back without standing out, you can always turn to Delta-8 edibles instead of smoking weed to completely eliminate weed smell.
Designed for an easy hang, a 10-count of Chillout 25mg Delta-8 THC gummies is only $29. Subscribe and save 15 percent.
What’s Behind The Smell of Cannabis?
Terpenes are the main molecules in hemp and marijuana plants that are behind the distinct smell of cannabis.
Delta-8 THC products taste and smell like weed because they are often designed with recognizable terpenes, which often produce a pungent smell.
For example, limonene is a popular terpene in modern cannabis products because of its uplifting citrus notes. Myrcene is another common feature with its own signature earthiness and a noticeable smell.
In a relatively recent addition to this conversation, researchers who reported in ACS Omega“ discovered a new family of prenylated volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) that give cannabis its characteristic skunky aroma.”
Taking all of the above, we can say that cannabis smells the way it does mostly because of terpenes, sulfur, and intentional product design.
Grab a 1g Hero Dose Delta-8 THC Blueberry Diesel Disposable Vape Pen for $46 today.
FAQs About the Smell of Cannabis Products
Q: Is the smell of Delta-8 THC flowers similar to weed?
A: Yes. Though Delta-9 THC products do tend to be on the less pungent side.
Delta-8 THC cannabis flowers smell and taste similarly to Delta-9 THC products when smoked or vaped. Similarly, they are also odorless and tasteless with some vape products and edibles.
Q: What can cannabis users do about strong scents emitting from hemp products?
A: Be as considerate when smoking Delta-8 THC flowers as you would when smoking anything else. Avoid doing it on public property or in the company of those who may take issue.
Similarly to Delta-9 THC products, you don’t have to worry about as long-lasting or intrusive of a smell as you might find with tobacco.
As mentioned above, on the cannabis spectrum, Delta-8 THC aromas and tastes tend to be on the more mild side. Still, exercise caution and practice consideration when smoking or vaping.
Q: What is a flower’s terpene profile?
A: A terpene profile simply refers to the most dominant terpenes within a given cannabis strain. It’s also often generalized and used to describe the general flavor or smell of a given cannabis product.
Q: Which cannabis strains have the most distinct aroma?
A: Many strains have popular, arguably famous aromas and flavor profiles. Historically, Sour Diesel and OG Kush strains have stood out among cannabis enthusiasts. In recent years, Birthday Cake has really gained a lot of favor as one of the most tasty strains out there.
Q: Are Delta-8 THC cannabis products regulated?
A: Delta-8 regulations vary from state to state, and you’re not always guaranteed a well-regulated product when shopping at places like dispensaries, smoke shops, or convenience stores.
When buying a Delta-8 THC product with Mood, you can trust that it comes from American hemp that’s pesticide-free and completely federally legal. Our edibles are non-GMO, and gummies are vegan.
Plus, every hemp product from Mood comes with a Certificate of Analysis ensuring it’s been tested by a third-party lab to meet health standards and FDA guidelines.
Delta-8 THC Products You Can Buy Today
Delta-8 THC Gel Caps
Sometimes the simplicity of an edible is enough. While we love our candies, these gel caps are a great option for those looking for a precise and direct dosage when it’s time to kick back and take the edge off. Enjoy a chill and long-lasting high with these unique Delta-8 products.
Get a 30-pack of 25mg Delta-8 THC Gel Caps for just $50. Subscribe and save 15 percent.
High-Concentration Delta-8 THC Moonrocks
While Delta-8 is known to offer a more clear high than Delta-9, it can be fun to experiment with consuming it in stronger concentrations. Described as the “caviar of cannabis,” these moonrocks feature Delta-8 THC flower covered in THC distillate and CBD kief.
Pick up an eighth of Delta-8 THC Moonrocks for only $40 today. Subscribe and save 15 percent.
Classic High Delta-8 Gummies
Packing a punch, these high-concentration gummies utilize a well-curated balance of Delta-8 THC and CBD to help you easily kick back. These non-GMO, vegan gummies come in Watermelon, Passionfruit, and Kiwi.
Get ten 50mg Delta-8 Gummies for $39 today. Subscribe and save 15 percent.
Key Takeaways: Understanding Delta-8 THC and Its Aroma
Whether you're smoking flowers or using vape products, the unique aroma of Delta-8 is something to consider, especially in environments where discretion is key. As you explore Delta-8 THC products, such as edibles and vapes, remember that Mood ensures all its products meet high standards of quality and safety.
By choosing Mood, you can enjoy your Delta-8 experience with confidence, knowing you're getting a product that's both federally legal and meticulously crafted.
Prices subject to change.