Hemp-Derived Delta-9 THC: What You Need to Know
Hemp-Derived Delta-9 THC: What You Need to Know
Lately, you may have noticed hemp-derived Delta-9 THC products, such as vapes and edibles, popping up online and in stores. Yes, Delta-9 THC, the same compound responsible for the “high” in traditional marijuana, can be derived from hemp. But how is this possible?
What Is Delta-9 THC?
Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis, responsible for the euphoric high commonly associated with marijuana. While it’s abundant in marijuana, Delta-9 is also present in smaller amounts in hemp. It’s one of over 85 cannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp plants, and the cannabinoid that regulators often scrutinize due to its psychoactive effects.
The 2018 U.S. Farm Bill legalized hemp and its derivatives, including CBD, as long as the Delta-9 THC content remains below 0.3%. This created a booming market for hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8, HHC, and now Delta-9 THC, which is extracted through a process called isomerization.
What Is Hemp-Derived Delta-9 THC?
Hemp-derived Delta-9 THC is produced from hemp plants that contain less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. Through extraction processes, hemp plants are primarily used to derive CBD, but after the CBD is removed, what’s left is a substance called Mother Liquor—a key byproduct used to extract Delta-9 THC.
What Is Mother Liquor?
Mother Liquor is the solution left behind after purifying CBD from hemp. This liquid holds other cannabinoids, including Delta-9 THC, which can be extracted in compliance with the 2018 Farm Bill’s regulations. By deriving THC from hemp instead of marijuana, these products can be sold legally in many states.
Benefits & Effects of Hemp-Derived Delta-9 THC
Delta-9 THC, whether derived from hemp or marijuana, offers a wide range of benefits and effects, including:
- Enhanced visual stimulation
- Mood elevation
- Increased appetite
- Physical relaxation
- Stress relief
- Boosted creativity
While hemp-derived Delta-9 may feel similar to traditional marijuana-derived THC, it tends to be milder due to the lower concentration allowed by law. Smaller doses are typically more energizing, while larger doses have a more sedative effect. Pairing Delta-9 with other cannabinoids like CBG can create more energizing effects, while combining it with CBN may lead to deeper physical relaxation.
How Is Hemp-Derived Delta-9 THC Legal?
The legality of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC hinges on a specific loophole in the 2018 Farm Bill known as the “dry weight” rule. As long as the Delta-9 content in any hemp-derived product is less than 0.3% by dry weight, it remains federally legal. This loophole allows manufacturers to create products like edibles with potent servings of Delta-9 THC while staying within legal limits. For example, a 100-gram product could legally contain up to 300 milligrams of Delta-9 THC.
However, products like beverages, which lack a defined dry weight, wouldn’t qualify under this loophole.
State Regulations on Hemp-Derived Delta-9 THC
Currently, hemp-derived Delta-9 THC is legal in 37 states, much like Delta-8 THC. However, with marijuana-derived Delta-9 products being regulated in states with medical or recreational cannabis laws, it’s possible that hemp-derived versions could face increased regulation over time.
Until then, you can enjoy the convenience and legality of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC products from trusted sources like THC No iD.