Is Delta-9 Real Weed?
CEO & Co-founder of Sunday Scaries Sunday Scaries Expert CBD & Anxiety Guru
Mike Sill is an expert on the topic of Sunday Scaries and has studied it since 2016. He previously was...
Delta-9 has recently become a buzz word online, both because of peaked interest and side-eyed skepticism.
Many people don't know this, but if you've gotten "high" before from smoking a joint or eating a cannabis edible, then guess what... you've consumed real delta-9.
This article explains what Delta-9 is exactly, and how it is scientifically "real" THC.
We also explain its origins, effects, legal considerations, and comparisons with other cannabinoids like delta-8 and delta-10... which are often referred to as "fake".
What is Delta-9 THC?
Delta-9 THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive compound found in cannabis.
Cannabis itself is the genus of the plant, referring to both marijuana and hemp varietals. So, while many people use "cannabis" to refer solely to "marijuana", it's a bit inaccurate.
Also, the word "weed" is often associated with marijuana, but you can extract the same stuff that gets you "high" from hemp!
Delta-9 is a compound that can be extracted from both marijuana AND hemp, and is responsible for the “high” sensation that many associate with cannabis consumption.
Delta-9 has been a topic of interest among researchers for its distinct psychoactive and potential therapeutic properties. Also, consumers now look at it like an evil word because of its incorrect association with other, "fake", synthetically derived deltas such as 8 and 10.
Delta-8, Delta-9 and Delta-10 are all considered THC. So although the term "Delta-9" is often used interchangeably with "THC", THC is actually an umbrella term for all of these.
For more detailed information on Delta-9 itself, check out our resources:
Is Delta-9 from Hemp & Marijuana the Same?
Yes, Delta-9 from hemp and marijuana is the same because it is chemically identical regardless of its source, delivering the same psychoactive effects.
The difference lies in their legality. Hemp-derived Delta-9 is federally legal per the 2018 Farm Bill if it contains 0.3% THC or less, while marijuana-derived Delta-9 is federally illegal as a Schedule I narcotic per the Controlled Substance Act and is only allowed in certain states where it is medically or recreationally legal.
Beyond the legality, both hemp and marijuana contain this compound, which shares the same molecular structure and psychoactive effects for each.
Despite their different sources, both types of Delta-9 THC bind to the same receptors in the brain, causing the same effects.
Scientifically, a Delta-9 THC molecule has 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. This structure remains unchanged whether it’s sourced from hemp or marijuana.
Does Hemp-Derived Delta-9 Produce a Different "High" from Marijuana-Derived Delta-9?
No, hemp-derived Delta-9 and marijuana-derived Delta-9 produce the same "high" because they are chemically identical. The difference is in how much THC is in the product, not the effects it creates.
That being said, if you first encountered cannabis by smoking a joint, blunt or bong, then you most likely smoked marijuana flower. Marijuana plants contain trichomes which are referred to as "buds", and many people love the taste and smell when they are lit on fire. Hemp plants are cultivated for industrial purposes, without these buds. So if you smoke hemp flower you'll definitely feel a different in taste and smell, and most users don't like it as much as marijuana. Also, there is way less concentration of THC in hemp plants vs. marijuana plants... unless you extract it.
To reiterate, delta-9 THC from hemp is the same compound that induces the classic “high” users experienced with traditional marijuana products. When you extract the delta-9 down to its natural form, that's where you can't notice any difference whatsoever.
So, to put this as "bluntly" as possible: if you want to smoke flower (joints, bongs, etc.) then marijuana is probably your best best since the THC concentration is higher pre-extraction and the taste and smell is much more desirable. But, if you just want to consume THC in edible or oil form, then you can try hemp-derived delta-9 gummies and you'll get the same exact experience as marijuana-derived delta-9 gummies.
Delta-9 THC vs. THC – What's the Difference
As discussed earlier, the terms “Delta-9 THC” and “THC” are often used interchangeably, which can lead to a ton of confusion.
While Delta-9 is the most well-known and researched form of THC, it’s not the only one.
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is a broader term that can refer to multiple types of THC compounds found in cannabis (both hemp and marijuana).
These include Delta-8 THC and Delta-10 THC as well as a bunch of other derivatives. These all interact slightly differently with the endocannabinoid system.
Delta-9 is the primary form of THC found in marijuana and hemp and is responsible for the classic “high” users associate with cannabis. "THC" is often a nickname used for Delta-9, but Delta-9 is ALWAYS THC and THC is NOT ALWAYS Delta-9.
As cannabis research has expanded, scientists have isolated other THC variants beyond Delta-9.
Are Delta-8 and Delta-10 Considered Real Weed?
No, Delta-8 and Delta-10 are not considered "real weed" because they are synthetic cannabinoids derived from hemp or marijuana through chemical processes. They are naturally occurring in the plant, but at extremely small amounts, so in order to get enough raw materials there are usually made in a lab.
While they are chemically similar to Delta-9, they are less potent, produce milder effects and are subject to different legal classifications.
Despite these variations, Delta-9 remains the “original” THC due to its prevalence and potency.
So, while Delta-9 THC and other forms like Delta-8 or Delta-10 share similar structures and effects, they are distinct cannabinoids that offer slightly different experiences. And the delta-8 and delta-10 products you see on the market are usually "fake" or synthetically derived, whereas delta-9 products are "real" and naturally occuring!
Delta-9 THC is the most abundant and potent form of THC found naturally in cannabis. Its well-documented psychoactive effects and therapeutic potential make it the “gold standard” among psychoactive cannabinoids.
Legal Differences Between Hemp-Derived and Marijuana-Derived Delta-9 THC
The legality of Delta-9 THC depends largely on its source: hemp or marijuana.
Understanding this distinction is critical for those interested in purchasing or using Delta-9 THC products legally.
1. Hemp-Derived Delta-9 THC
Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived products with a THC concentration of no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight are federally legal in the United States.
This means that products derived from hemp can contain Delta-9 THC, as long as they do not exceed the .3% threshold. The interpretation is that the .3% pertains to weight of the final product. So, for example, gummies, candies, edibles, chocolates, confectionary goods, etc.
Since the signing of the Bill, this has largely opened up a new market for those seeking a psychoactive experience within legal limits, and is why you're seeing a ton of products for sale online, like here at Sunday Scaries.
2. Marijuana-Derived Delta-9 THC
In contrast, marijuana-derived Delta-9 THC remains illegal at the federal level, as marijuana is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance. Yup, up there with heroin...
That being said, many states have taken matters into their own hands and legalized marijuana for medical or recreational use. This has created a confusing patchwork of laws. Most notably, you cannot drive or fly across state lines with marijuana-derived gummies (since it would be considered federal jurisdiction).
In states where marijuana is legal, Delta-9 THC can be derived from marijuana and sold without the 0.3% concentration restriction, allowing for more potent products. Although, you can still pack a ton of delta-9 into a gummy and adhere to the .3% THC threshold.
While both forms of Delta-9 are chemically identical, the Farm Bill created a legal pathway for hemp-derived Delta-9 to be sold online. So even though the psychoactive effects are the same as marijuana-derived Delta-9, the former is federally legal and the latter is not. Pretty crazy, right?!
Conclusion
Delta-9 is definitely “real” THC... it's science. And delta-9 offers the same psychoactive effects regardless of whether it’s derived from hemp or marijuana.
Although other cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-10 offer alternative experiences, Delta-9 is the dominant and most recognized form of THC due to its potency and well-established effects. Also, delta-9 is much more naturally abundant in the cannabis plant, which is why it's usually not synthetically derived.
The legal distinction between hemp-derived and marijuana-derived Delta-9 THC is crucial for consumers, as it affects availability and permissible use across the United States.
While hemp-derived Delta-9 THC is widely accessible due to its federal legality under the 2018 Farm Bill, marijuana-derived Delta-9 remains restricted in states without legalized marijuana.
TL;DR: If you want to order "real THC" online, then ensure the delta-9 products are derived from hemp.
