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Is Delta 9 THC Different Than THC?

Some consumers are confused by a term like “Delta 9 THC”. This is because this term creates the impression that there is THC, and then there is Delta 9 THC. 

As a result, people scratch their head wondering what the difference is

However, this specification is a necessary evil. The specification is necessary because it has unspoken implications about the source of the THC product. Saying a product is a “Delta 9 THC edible” or the like often signifies that the cannabis product is sourced from hemp. 

This is important because not all forms of cannabis products are federally legal. We will go into more detail about this below. But in short, know that the term “Delta 9 THC product”, or a similar such term, signifies that it is a hemp, rather than marijuana, product. 

The exact reason it is called “Delta 9 THC” is because that is the actual name of the compound found in marijuana. 

Breaking Down Cannabis, Marijuana, and Hemp

Pop culture and the media have used “marijuana” and “cannabis” almost interchangeably. As a result, it creates more confusion among people.

Cannabis is a plant, and marijuana is a variety of that plant. Hemp is also a variety of cannabis. So, really, hemp and marijuana are like siblings of sorts. 

The big difference between hemp and marijuana is the THC content. Hemp contains less than 0.3% THC while marijuana is above that threshold. 

THC Explained

Tetrahydrocannabinol is what THC stands for. THC is responsible for the “psychoactive” effects of many cannabis products. 

Cannabis is made up of over a hundred cannabinoids. These are chemical compounds that are found within the plant. 

THC is by far the most famous cannabinoid. However, you may have heard of another cannabinoid: CBD. 

Cannabinoids can determine what effects you feel when consuming cannabis products. 

Some of them work quite well together. For instance, Delta 9 and CBD are mixed in plenty of our Delta 9 products. One such example is our Delta 9 small beverages. 

Why Is It Called Delta 9 THC? 

We mentioned that THC and Delta 9 THC generally refer to the same thing. 

Specifically, they refer to Delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol. So, the name Delta 9 THC makes sense. Saying “THC” is just a way of further shortening it. 

Be aware that any product featuring Delta 9 THC will bring psychoactive effects. This can range from a very mild social lift to stronger, more intoxicating experiences. 

You should definitely be aware of what you’re getting yourself into when you buy Honeyroot 35mg Delta 9 THC Single Serve Gummy. 

Are There Other Forms of THC Besides Delta 9 THC? 

Yes, indeed. In fact, you have probably already been wondering about Delta 8 THC while you have been reading this article. 

This is why we say that “generally” people refer to Delta 9 THC when they say “THC”. 

Delta 8 THC is merely another cannabinoid, a variety of THC. It is what is known as an isomer—same chemical formula, different chemical structure. 

The big difference between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC is the strength of effects. Delta 9 is stronger. So, Delta 8 THC is better for people looking to take a walk on the mild side. 

Why Hemp-Derived Delta 9 THC Is Legal While Marijuana-Derived THC Is Not

When the U.S. Farm Bill was passed in 2018, hemp products became legal. As a result, hemp-derived THC products became federally legal. Meanwhile, marijuana-derived THC products are legal on a state-by-state basis. 

Why is this? 

It is because of the difference between hemp and marijuana mentioned above. 

Marijuana’s higher THC content has made it controversial within legislation. Hemp’s low THC content led lawmakers to believe that it was okay to federally legalize. 

However, little did they anticipate that THC’s psychoactive effects could be activated in hemp-derived products. All it took was a matter of ensuring that the amount of THC in a product was compliant with the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill. This involved creating products that had less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. 

So, really, the psychoactive experience of a hemp-derived Delta 9 product will be quite similar to that of a marijuana THC product. The difference in legality stems (no pun intended) from how the products are sourced. 

Buy Delta 8, Delta 9, and CBD Products Today

Hopefully this explanation has proven helpful. Read our recent post on Five Fun Delta 9 Activities for some ideas to get the most out of your D9 experience. 

And no matter your taste, you are sure to find a Delta 9 beverage that is right for you at Hectare’s and Bourbon Country Cannabis! 

If you want to learn more about the many products available in the world of cannabis, do not hesitate to reach out to us today, and we can help you find the cannabis product that is right for you!

From THC+CBD Bourbon Balls to Delta 9 gummies, we sell a wide variety of high-quality products on hectares.com and in-store at Bourbon Country Cannabis’ Nulu Location (819 E Market St Suite 101, Louisville, KY 40206). 

Selected Posts from the Hectare’s Blog + Our FAQ 

If you are looking to find out more about cannabis, then be sure to check out our blog, which updates you on everything in the world of cannabis! 

    Have any questions for us? Check out our FAQ where we answer your cannabis questions!