Is Delta 9 Real Weed? Breaking Down the Facts

Delta-9 THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is a chemical compound that occurs naturally in the cannabis plant. It is among the best known of cannabinoids, and it's responsible for most of marijuana's psychoactive effects — what users commonly refer to as the "high." Think of it as the compound that makes cannabis, well, cannabis.

This compound does not get you high; instead, the body uses it to make its own cannabinoids that then interact with the endocannabinoid system, a large network in our brain and elsewhere that's believed to help regulate various functions such as mood, sleep and appetite. Delta-9 THC acts on certain receptors within the system, and how it does that is what causes its particular effects. Whether it by from hemp or marijuana, it is the same chemical compound but in varying concentrations.

Although we tend to discuss it in the context of getting high or stoned, Delta-9 THC can also be used for medicinal purposes. Some synthetic versions are FDA-approved for the treatment of nausea and appetite loss induced by certain medical therapies. But he emphasized that these prescription forms are not the exact same products you can purchase under regulations in place now. Here, I did my own research to find out if they are even legal. What is the source and legality of them? This is important information when researching Delta-9 products.

(And just a note, there are also other types of THC out there, such as Delta-8 THC). Although chemically alike, Delta-8's molecular structure differs just enough from that of Delta-9 to produce a weaker high. This difference in potency is one reason people speak colloquially about different products on the market today as having varying "types" of THC.

What Sets Delta 9 Apart from the Rest?

When you think of cannabis, Delta-9 THC is probably the cannabinoid that first comes to mind. It's the primary culprit behind that familiar psychoactive effect, commonly referred to as the "high." But how does it compare to other cannabinoids, including Delta-8 THC and CBD? That difference between Delta-9 and Delta-8 THC, for example, boils down to a minor difference in their molecular structure — namely the position of a double carbon bond. This slight variation affects how much they bind to our body's endocannabinoid system — and that may be why Delta-9 tends to have a more profound effect than Delta-8 does.

Think of it like this:

• Delta-9 THC: Has its double bond at the 9th and 10th carbon atom. That is generally held to be the more powerful version.
• Delta-8 THC: Contains a double on the 8th carbon. This is why the effects are often much less pronounced.

Another important difference is their inherent concentration within the cannabis plant. Cannabis flowers contain more of delta-9 THC than delta-8. This means that Delta-9 can sometimes simply be pulled right out, while Delta-8 is often manufactured from CBD, which may bring other issues with regards to purity and regulation.

When Delta-9 is compared to CBD (cannabidiol), then there's an even greater difference. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive — it does not make you feel high. Though both cannabinoids are found in cannabis, they interact with the body in different ways and are often used for different reasons. It's commonly used for potential wellness qualities, such as easing anxiety or pain, without the euphoria associated with THC.

It's the chemical structure, natural presence and resulting strength that differentiate Delta-9 THC from other cannabinoids. So what do you need to know about the two?

Delta 9 THC And Legality

The legal status of Delta 9 THC's a little bit complicated — mostly because it depends on where it came from and how much of it is in something. At the federal level, it was the 2018 Farm Bill. This bill legalized industrial hemp nationwide. The important thing to note here, is that hemp is classified as cannabis with 0.3% Delta 9 THC weight by mass. This is significant because it distinguishes hemp from marijuana, which remains a federally controlled substance.

Thus, if a product has Delta 9 THC that comes from hemp and it's within the 0.3% threshold, then in general it is federally legal. This has cleared the way for numerous products, such as gummies or tinctures, to be widely marketed. But it's not that simple. Many states have independent laws that could limit or prohibit Delta 9 THC regardless of whether it's hemp-derived. It's always a good idea to read your specific state's guidelines before purchasing or consuming any Delta 9 products.

Delta 9 THC legality largely depends on the source and concentration, as federal law makes a distinction between hemp and marijuana according to the level of Delta 9 THC.

Here's a quick breakdown:

• Legally Sourced: The products available are derived from hemp, as defined by the 2018 Farm Bill with a Delta 9 THC content of no more than 0.3% dry weight.
• State-Specific Laws: Certain states do have varying laws of their own pertaining to Delta 9 THC in comparison to Federal law.
• Delta 9 THC from Marijuana: CBD products derived from marijuana are regulated by state marijuana laws and are not federally legal.

It's worth mentioning that while the Farm Bill legalizes hemp-derived Delta 9, some states have implemented their regulations or state laws to banned these products. This means something that may be allowed in one state can potentially be regulated elsewhere. For any lawyer willing to "dabble" in these types of product opportunities, grasping the landscape makes a good first step. There are products available from the hemp plant and cannabinoid product market that can satisfy these guidelines.

Is Delta 9 Real Weed?

Delta 9 in Marijuana vs. Hemp

When people talk about "weed," they mean the cannabis plant with high levels of Delta-9 THC. This is the compound responsible for eliciting the psychoactive effects or "high" from using cannabis. From the standpoint of chemistry, Delta-9 THC from marijuana is exactly the same as Delta-9 THC from hemp. The main discrepancy, however, is the origin plant and its total THC content level. According to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is any part of a cannabis plant that contains 0.3 percent or less Delta-9 THC by dry weight. Marijuana, however, can have a far greater amount of Delta-9 THC.

This distinction was also critical as it touches upon legality. Hemp products that follow the 0.3% Delta-9 THC limit are federally legal. That means that while it is the same molecule responsible for the mind-altering effects of traditional marijuana, we may begin to see more widespread availability for hemp-derived Delta-9.

Strength and Effects vs. Other Forms

So, can Delta-9 get you high like weed? Yes, it does. Since Delta-9 THC is chemically identical regardless of its source, the resulting effect would be broadly similar. Whether you get Delta-9 from a hemp product or a marijuana product, the intoxicating effect is likely going to be the same for experiences like euphoria, relaxation and changes in perception. Although the degree of these effects varies with dosage and individual tolerance.

Delta-9 THC is worth examining in comparison to other cannabinoids such as Delta-8. Though they are both types of THC, Delta-9 is reputedly more intense. This means Delta-9 THC is generally stronger, milligram for milligram, than Delta-8 THC when it comes to psychoactive effects. The difference in strength can be attributed to how each compound interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system.

Here's a quick comparison:

And in the end, is Delta-9 considered to be cannabis? In marijuana, as in hemp, more than 100 cannabinoids (the active ingredients) have been identified. It's the predominant psychoactive ingredient in cannabis of any kind - whether so-called hemp or marijuana.

Health and Safety Considerations

Safety is something it's important to consider when you're in the market for Delta 9 THC products, specifically those that are hemp-based. In contrast to products from regulated pot markets, hemp-derived Delta 9 goods often aren't subject to the same hardcore oversight. This can be a few things for consumers.

One key is the consistency of the product. Some research has indicated that the real amount of Delta 9 THC in a product might not correspond to what's on the label. The problem here is that THC can have different effects on people. You might overdo it and wind up with unwanted effects.

Here are some important things to think about:

• Dosage Accuracy: Most products don't specify what dosage a person should take, so it's difficult to tell how much THC you're getting. This can be particularly alarming for first time or THC sensitive users.
• Age Verification: There is very little in terms of strong age verification on the web for purchases. This begs whether minors should have access to intoxicating products.
• Child-Resistant Packaging: Child-resistant packaging is standard in the legal marijuana markets, but is not always required with hemp-derived Delta 9 products, which could leave food/unpackaged treatment behind for the young to find.
• Lab Testing: There are not requirements for thorough lab testing for contaminants (like pesticides and heavy metals as seen in regulated markets) that hit the health of the product on a scientific level.

Without regular regulation, consumers need to be extra vigilant. It's a good idea to seek out brands that post third-party lab reports (Certificates of Analysis, or COAs) for their products. These reports can provide additional information about the cannabinoid profile as well as purity of the product.

The accidental consumption by kids is also a documented risk with THC-infused edibles. So it's best to store them out of reach of your children and pets.

Delta 9 THC Products Available For Sale

These days, there are all sorts of product types containing Delta-9 THC. It's no longer just about smoking flower of course, although you can still do that if you're getting it from a weed source where it is legal. For the hemp-derived Delta-9 people are talking about when they say it has a broader availability now, the forms can be quite varied.

Consider edibles in the form of gummies, chocolates and even baked goods. They are popular because they're discreet and the effects can last longer, but they do take some time to hit. Then there are tinctures — which are liquid drops to take under the tongue. This process often puts Delta-9 in your system quicker than edibles. Another large category is vapes, which deliver rapid effects much like smoking, without the smoke. You also have topicals, such as lotions or balms, that are intended for outside use but provide localized relief and typically don't produce a psychoactive effect.

Since it's available in so many varieties, consumers can pick and choose based on how they like to consume cannabis and what experience they're looking for.

Here's a glance at some of the most typical types of products these days:

• Edibles: Gummies, brownies, cookies, candies
• Tinctures: Sublingual taken oils or liquids
• Vapes: Inhale-able cartridges or disposable pens
• Topicals: Creams, balms and lotions that can be applied to skin

It is worth noting that the strength and concentration of Delta-9 can differ markedly among these products. Others may be intended to induce more mild responses, and others still to deliver a stronger effect. Be sure to follow any dosage recommendations on product labeling, and keep in mind all dosages are approximations; cannabinoid content can vary. It's also worth pointing out that the market is still relatively young, and product quality can vary between brands. Some research suggests there may still be discrepancies in labeling, even though measured THC content on average closely matches what's written on the label in Washington. That's why it's crucial to search for products from trustworthy companies that offer third-party lab results.

Understanding the dosage and delivery is key to controlling your experience when using Delta-9 products. The various sorts might work differently in different people, so a conservative trial-and-observation program — induced firsthand when you start with a low dose and then see how you react — seems best.

Myths commonly told about Delta 9

With so many different types of THC, it is easy to confuse the many varietals — and Delta 9 is no exception. Let me clarify some of the most common misconceptions about this.

This is probably the biggest myth, and that is that Delta 9 THC from hemp is somehow less than D9THC (Delta 9 THC from marijuana), or different. From a chemical standpoint, Delta 9 THC is just that and doesn't matter whether it comes from here or there. The molecule doesn't differ whether it is extracted from a hemp plant or a marijuana plant. The distinction comes from the overall cannabinoid profile of the plant and legal definitions based on concentration of THC.

A few other things that tend to trip people up:

Myth: Delta 9 from hemp is a new or synthetic type of THC.

Fact: Delta 9 THC is a natural cannabinoid found in every cannabis plant, hemp included. The product is produced by taking the naturally occurring Delta 9 and extracting it.

Myth: Every Delta 9 product will get you stoned.

Fact: The severity of the effects will vary depending on a number of factors, including dosage, the product's formulation (such as whether or not it contains other cannabinoids or terpenes) and an individual's tolerance.

Myth: Delta 9 products are unregulated and possibly unsafe because they come from hemp.

Fact: Although the hemp industry is new and still in development, many trusted brands offering Delta 9 products sourced from hemp have embraced high standards of quality control — including third-party lab testing to verify that their products are safe and accurately labeled, particularly with respect to the 0.3% limit on THC by dry weight.

We should all recall that the law doesn't differentiate hemp and marijuana by THC structure, but by the dry weight amount of Delta 9 THC. This is a legal definition that opens up the possibility for products to be made with bases that have small amounts of Delta 9 THC in them, so long as they can fall under the hemp category.

Another misunderstanding is regarding the consequences. Delta 9, as we all know and love it, is a psychoactive substance with a range of possible experiences to have. And some might assume that produce made from hemp should have a blunter impact because it's legal in far more places, but the feeling is actually linked to the Delta 9 molecule. The concentration in which it's taken and how you are consuming the plant substance is much more important than what plant it comes from.

How to Select Best Delta 9 Products

It's not just about buying the first thing you see when you're in the market for Delta 9 products. There's a bit of haggling to ensure you're getting something good and safe. Consider it selecting the right produce at the market (fresh is preferable, right?).

Well first off, you should only be looking at products that have third-party lab reports. These are super important. They demonstrate what's actually in the product and whether it's clean. Companies that tell me this information up front usually have nothing to hide. You're looking for that Certificate of Analysis (COA) to show you what's in the product, like how much Delta 9 THC (the stuff that makes people feel high) is actually in it and screening for pesticides, heavy metals and mold.

Here are the highlights of what to look for:

• Lab Testing: Seek out a COA from an independent lab
• Cannabinoid Profile: Does is have CBD, and what percentage of Delta-9 THC are we working with here
• Ingredient List: Its a good sign when the ingredients are simple and natural
• Brand Reputation: Hear the Voice of Past Clients. Reviews on sites like Trustpilot can be useful, but you also want to check their Better Business Bureau ratings

You shouldn't feel embarrassed to ask questions. A decent company will be only too happy to explain their sourcing and testing protocols. It's wise, too, to know where the hemp came from. Is it grown in the US? That often means stricter regulations.

The market for hemp-based products is still fairly new, and not all companies are scrupulous. Homework pays off: It keeps you from buying things that may not be what they claim, or worse, could even be unsafe.

And in terms of strength, don't forget that Delta 9 THC is the active compound responsible for getting you high. Products will indicate the level of Delta 9 THC per serving. Begin low, and go slow — particularly if you're new to the substance. What's reasonable to one may be overly ambitious for another. Notice the total THC concentration, not just the Delta 9, to appreciate the total strength.

Frequently Asked Questions About Delta 9 and 'Real Weed'

People frequently want to know if Delta-9 THC from hemp is the same as what you would get in classic marijuana. The simple answer is yes, Delta-9 THC is Delta-9 THC regardless of what it looks like chemically. The molecule that causes psychoactive effects is the same.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:

What makes Delta-9 THC psychoactive?

Delta-9 THC works by attaching to cannabinoid receptors in your brain, but it also binds to other cell receptors throughout different systems. This interaction is responsible for the unique "high" or euphoric sensation associated with cannabis consumption.

What is the difference between hemp Delta-9 and marijuana Delta-9?

The distinction is one of concentration, and legality. The federal Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 defines hemp as cannabis that contains no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC (by dry weight). Marijuana, however, can have much more Delta-9 THC. And, because of this legal distinction, hemp-derived Delta-9 products (when at or within the 0.3% mark) can be sold much more widely.

Do the effects of hemp-derived Delta-9 and marijuana differ?

Yes, it's essentially the same effects — because it's the exact same compound. That said, the experience can vary depending on what a product is made with and how high or low it's in Delta-9 THC compared to other cannabinoids and terpenes. The items produced under the 0.3% federal limit will have much less Delta-9 THC per serving size than the pull from an average marijuana product on the market.

Is Delta-9 THC legal?

The legality is complicated and varies based on the origin and state laws. Nationally, Delta-9 THC extracted from hemp is legal when it does not exceed 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight as outlined in the 2018 Farm Bill. But individual states have their own rules for cannabinoids derived from hemp, and many of them have banned or severely restricted the substances. Delta-9 THC derived from marijuana is still illegal at the federal level, although many states have legalized it for medical or recreational use.

It's crucial that you remember the chemical compound remains the Delta-9 molecule, although how it's presented in different products can differ greatly. Which is to say: Potency, effects and legal status can all be affected by how products are produced and where they come from.

Conclusion: Is Delta 9 the Same as Smoking Weed?

So, if you believe that weed is the same as Delta 9 THC, after all this buzz; then should it be? The short answer is yes it is, indeed. The main compound in cannabis, that feeling you get or the 'high', is due to its delta 9 THC. The Delta 9 THC molecule itself is the same whether it comes from a marijuana plant or an industrial hemp plant. So, technically speaking how Delta 9 stacks up to ordinary weed in terms of its basic effects is pretty similar.

Consider this: Water is water, whether it's from a mountain spring or your tap. The source could be different, the purity or minerals added to it might vary, but it's H2O. Delta 9 THC is the psychoactive constituent of marijuana.

But the gulf between can come down to legality and concentration. Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD oil derived from hemp can contain up to 0.3% THC by dry weight, and still be federally legal (assuming it follows all age and ingredient restrictions). This makes for more accessible products, which may also have an overall lower concentration than what you would find in a high-potency marijuana strain.

Here's a quick breakdown:

• Delta 9 in Marijuana: Normally present in larger quantities, resulting in stronger effects. But its legality is a matter of state and not federal law.
• Delta 9 in Hemp: Legally if testing below the threshold of no more than 0.3% Delta 9 THC by weight. This renders it federally legal but may also deliver a different, less psychoactive experience for some users than high-THC marijuana.

Although it's the same molecule, how you access and experience it may vary based on its source and legal status. These differences are something to be mindful of when picking products.

So, if you're here wondering whether Delta 9 THC is weed when all is said and done, it really comes down to the compound in question. It is. The differences are in how it is sourced and regulated, and what the resulting potency and accessibility is.

So, is Delta 9 what people usually refer to as weed? Pretty much! Delta 9 THC is the primary ingredient when it comes to that classic high. It's the same natural compound in cannabis plants. Want to know more about all the different types of THC and what they do? Visit our website for more information!

Wrapping Up Delta-9

So, then the big question: is Delta-9 real weed? Yes, it is. The main psychoactive component in cannabis is delta-9 THC. Though it is in marijuana, CBD doesn't lead to intoxication at the exact same extent THC does. Hemp-sourced Delta-9 is legal at the federal level as long as it tests below 0.3%THC by dry weight, thanks to the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. This tells you there are products containing Delta-9 that can provide the same result as with standard cannabis, only with a more defined legal pathway in many cases. When considering this question, remember that laws can shift and you should know where your product comes from — and its legality.