A lot of new delta-9 THC products are coming out that are designed to help users relax and have fun. But what is delta-9 THC? Is it the same as THC?
In this post, we’ll look at delta-9 THC, cannabis’s main psychoactive ingredient, and what you should know if you’re considering purchasing some.
What Is Delta-9 THC?
Delta-9 THC, THC being short for TetraHydroCannabinol (emphasis ours,) is one of the 100+ cannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp plants. When people consume cannabis to get intoxicated or “high,” they experience the effects of delta-9 THC. There are other forms of tetrahydrocannabinol, but we will focus on the delta-9 variant in this post.
Read more: CBD vs. THC: What’s The Difference
Is Delta-9 THC The Same As THC?
Generally speaking, when you see THC advertised or spoken about in popular culture, it’s referring to delta-9 THC. Delta-9 THC is the most stable and naturally occurring form of tetrahydrocannabinol in cannabis.
In the hemp industry, it’s important to make the distinction between delta-9 THC and other forms of THC. Because of the way the 2018 Farm Bill is written, delta-9 THC, a schedule I substance, is specifically limited in hemp products, while all of the other potentially psychoactive variants of THC are not.
Delta-9 THC vs. Delta-8 THC
One of said variants is called delta-8 THC. Delta-9 and delta-8 THC are nearly identical molecules with a small molecular difference. Both will intoxicate you (delta-8 not as effectively as delta-9) but delta-8 is in a legal gray area and will continue to be so until addressed by legislation.
Read more about delta-8 THC here!
What Are The Effects Of Delta-9 THC?
People consume cannabis for many reasons, both recreational and medical. Some recreational effects of delta-9 THC include feeling:
- Euphoric
- Uplifted
- Energetic
- Sleepy
- Creative
- Focused
- Hungry
Is Delta-9 THC Safe?
Cannabis, hemp, and delta-9 THC are all relatively safe. Overconsumption can cause some unwanted side effects like paranoia, anxiety, and restlessness, though consuming delta-9 THC is generally considered safe.
Is Delta-9 THC Addictive?
Despite the common belief that cannabis is not addictive, THC dependence has been widely documented. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, nearly 3 in 10 cannabis users will become addicted. If a person uses cannabis before the age of 18, the likelihood of forming an addiction, or cannabis use disorder, increases.
Does Delta-9 THC Show Up On A Drug Test?
Yes, delta-9 THC does show up on drug tests. If you are subject to or are scheduled to take a workplace drug test, don’t consume delta-9 THC, or any THC, in any concentration. Because workplace tests look for THC metabolites— what’s left after your body breaks down THC— all forms of THC will make you test positive.
More: Can CBD make you fail a drug test?
How Long Does Delta-9 THC Stay In Your System?
The rule of thumb is that delta-9 THC stays in your system for about four weeks, but it really depends on the individual. Delta-9 THC is fat-soluble and will build up in your system with prolonged or frequent use.
If you aren’t a frequent or long-time user of delta-9 THC, it will likely clear out of your system a bit faster.
