The cannabis plant is famed for the many effects it can have on the human body, and those effects are actually produced by small compounds within the plant, known as cannabinoids. Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is one of the most famous cannabinoids of all, and it comes in various forms, like delta-8 and delta-9 THC.
But what is delta-9 THC? Is delta-9 legal? What kinds of effects can you expect when smoking cannabis or using products with delta-9 THC vs THC in other forms? In this guide, we’ll aim to answer all of those questions and more. We’ll cover everything you need to know about delta-9 THC, beginning with a clear and simple definition.
What Is Delta-9?
So, what exactly is delta-9 THC? Well, when most people talk about THC, they’re actually referring to delta-9. Also known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, delta-9 THC is the most common and abundant form of THC in cannabis plants. So, whether you the terms “delta 9”, “THC”, or “delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol”, they’re all the same thing.
Delta 9 THC vs THC
The term “THC” usually refers to delta-9. However, there are other kinds of THC out there, like delta-8 THC and delta-10. This is why it’s useful to refer to different kinds of THC by their specific names, like delta-9 and delta-10, in order to make it clear which kind of THC you’re talking about or which variety of THC can be found within THC products.
Difference Between Delta-9 THC, Delta-8, and Delta-10
When it comes to delta-8, delta-9, and delta-10, the main difference is strength. Delta-9 THC is the strongest of the trio and the most likely to trigger noticeable, tangible effects. Delta-8 is weaker and delta-10 is even weaker, and the three can also produce slightly different effects on the body.
How Does Delta-9 Affect the Body?
One of the main questions that people have about cannabinoids like THC is “How do they actually work?” It’s clear that THC and other cannabinoids can trigger certain effects inside the human body and brain, but how does this happen? Well, research is ongoing into the subject, and there’s still much we don’t know about how cannabinoids function.
However, what we do know is that THC is able to interact with a part of the body called the endocannabinoid system, or ECS. The ECS is a cell-signaling system that has influence over lots of bodily functions and feelings, from your appetite to your emotions, pain responses, anxiety levels, tiredness, and so on.
It is believed that THC molecules are able to interact with cannabinoid receptors in the ECS in order to trigger certain effects, like making someone feel happier or more relaxed. There are various other delta-9 THC effects, too, like a feeling of euphoria, increased appetite, and a feeling of being “high”, which we’ll discuss further below.
How Long Does Delta-9 THC Stay In Your System?
This depends, and it’s hard to give a definitive answer. In reality, THC can stay in a person’s system anywhere from a few days up to a month or longer, and it may appear on tests up to three days after usage. Habitual or regular users may also find that THC stays in their system for longer than someone who only uses THC every now and then, for example.
Are There Potential Benefits to Using Delta-9?
Like other cannabinoids, delta-9 THC has quite a long list of potential effects on the human body, and some of these effects may be classed as beneficial or desirable for certain people. According to research and studies, THC may be able to help in the treatment or alleviation of certain health conditions, including the likes of glaucoma, sleep apnea, and even cancer.
Possible benefits include:
- Pain Relief – THC may be able to soothe aches and pains throughout the body.
- Increased Appetite – THC can increase a person’s appetite and help them eat more.
- Alleviating Nausea – THC is often used to alleviate feelings of nausea and vomiting.
- Alleviating Stress and Anxiety – THC can also promote feelings of calmness.
Are Side Effects Possible When Using Delta-9?
Yes, there are risks of side effects when using delta-9. Unlike CBD, delta-9 THC can produce a feeling of being high. This can lead to things like slower reactions, difficulty thinking or formulating sentences, memory loss, and anxiety or paranoia. Other possible side effects may include increased heart rate, redness in the eyes, and dryness of the mouth.
Amount of THC in Marijuana
How much THC can you expect to find in marijuana? Again, there’s not a single answer for this, as it will depend on what type of marijuana you have. Marijuana comes in various forms, and some contain much higher amounts of THC than others. In general, typical THC levels can range from as low as 0.3% up to 5%, but some plants might contain 10, 15, 20%, or even more THC.
Is Delta-9 Legal in Los Angeles?
Yes, products containing delta 9 THC are legal in California, with certain restrictions. These products must not contain more than 0.3% delta-9 THC, and they must be made from hemp plants, rather than marijuana.
What Should You Look for When Selecting a Product?
If you visit a cannabis store near you and look for THC products, it’s important to focus on quality. Try to only buy from trusted brands with proven track records, and look for companies that use third-party lab testing to verify the quality of their ingredients. It’s also a good idea to speak with professionals to learn more, and you can contact us with any questions.
The Bottom Line
If you’re new to the cannabis world, it can be confusing to hear all of these different terms like delta 9 and THC. But once you understand what each term means, everything becomes easier to understand. We hope that this guide has provided a clear and thorough overview of what delta-9 THC actually is.
