by James Schaefer
Cannabis plants have a slew of chemical compounds that tend to grab the attention of enthusiasts. From different cannabinoids to terpenes, every strain has a distinct profile packed with beneficial components. One such component that has been a hot topic of discussion lately is Delta 9 THC. This cannabinoid is most famous for its psychoactive effects on consumers, but did you know that there are other isomers of THC present in a cannabis plant?
Delta 8 THC and Delta 10 THC are two other forms of tetrahydrocannabinol that can be found in major cannabis strains. It can be a little confusing since these cannabinoids all sound very similar, so here are some of the most common characteristics that differentiate them from one another:
Delta 9 THC
Starting from the best known and researched compound, Delta 9 is the psychoactive cannabinoid that leads to a ‘high-like’ effect in consumers. This cannabinoid is most abundantly found in marijuana plants. However, it has a minuscule presence of 0.3% THC in hemp sources.
Delta 8 THC
Similar to Delta 9, Delta 8 is a psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis plants that also produces a high in consumers. While the two compounds are very similar, a slight difference in their chemical makeup leads to lower potency in Delta 8, which causes a euphoric and relaxing experience for users, while also providing relief from pain. However, the effects are mild when compared to Delta 9. This compound is not as abundantly found in a cannabis strain as the other THC.
Delta 10 THC
Another compound with a similar chemical structure as Delta 9 and Delta 8 is Delta 10. This psychoactive compound is the mildest out of the three and found in the smallest percentage. The cannabinoid is more closely associated with the Sativa high, one that leaves the consumer feeling energetic, focused, and motivated, while also experiencing a mental high.
Delta 9 Vs. Delta 8 Vs. Delta 10
The three compounds have similar chemical compositions, but their structures are what makes them different. Here are some of the core differences:
Strength:
Delta 9 – Has the strongest psychoactive effects.
Delta 8 – Has slightly milder effects, a preferable form of THC if users do not want to experience an extreme high.
Delta 10 – Has the mildest effects, most suitable when users only want a head buzz and no high-like effects.
Abundance:
Delta 9 – In hemp plants, the available percentage does not go over 0.3%. In marijuana plants, it can range from 2%-25%.
Delta 8 – Cannabis plants (both hemp and marijuana) typically contain 0.1% Delta 8 or less.
Delta 10 – The cannabinoid is only present in trace amounts in both hemp and marijuana strains.
Legality:
Delta 9 – As per the 2018 Farm Bill, Delta 9 THC that is extracted from hemp sources and is not any more than 0.3% is legal across all U.S. states. However, individual states can decide if they want to legalize the use of the cannabinoid to any extent. A majority of the states allow the use of more potent THC products that are only accessible to patients with a Marijuana Medical Card (MMJ card).
Delta 8 – Delta 8 is still federally legal as long as it is extracted from hemp. However, the laws around the compound seem to be changing constantly, so businesses must stay in the loop. It is crucial to remember that 20 U.S. states have currently regulated or restricted Delta 8, four are still reviewing its status, and 26 have legalized it.
Delta 10 – Delta 10 falls into a similar category as Delta 8. It is federally legal as long as it is derived from hemp sources.
It is important to remember that all three types of THC have the capability of showing up on a drug test and should not be consumed prior to a medical test.
James has written a lot about marketing, technology, and AI. However, his personal experience with medical cannabis brings a breath of fresh air to the content that he writes for various businesses. Since 2017, he has been marketing cannabis-related content on different platforms and currently takes charge of all content requirements for the Online Medical Card. His new perspective and personal touch always inspire readers to learn more and more about cannabis.