- Learn
Resources
Quick Contact
Working Hours
Monday to Friday : 8am - 6pm PST
Saturday & Sunday : 12pm - 6pm PSTEmail Address
Monday to Friday : 8am - 6pm PST
Saturday & Sunday : 12pm - 6pm PST
Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, or simply THC, is a cannabinoid found in cannabis plants.
It’s responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana.
But what is delta-9, and what does it do?
In this post, we’ll explore the effects of delta-9 on the body and mind and discuss how it’s used in cannabis products.
We’ll also look at some of the latest research on delta-9 and its potential therapeutic benefits and how you can find legal delta-9 THC products in the United States.
So if you’re curious about this important compound, read on!
Delta-9 THC (Δ-9-THC) is the most well-known and researched cannabinoid, with a complicated legal status in the United States, as it’s the primary active component in marijuana plants. However, researchers are finding that THC also has therapeutic properties that could help treat various conditions.
THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol, and there are many forms of THC in cannabis, such as delta-8 and delta-10, which exists in much smaller concentrations, typically less than 0.1%.
In its raw form, THC exists in cannabis Sativa plants as THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), which is not psychoactive. The compound requires heat to break off the carboxylic acid chain, leaving behind the THC cannabinoid molecule that produces psychoactive effects.
THC interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which is involved in various functions, including memory, perception, mood, and pain [1].
THC affects these functions by binding to the cannabinoid receptors and altering their activity. In other words, THC mimics the endocannabinoids that our bodies naturally produce.
It’s thought that THC may also bind to other types of receptors, but this isn’t well understood.
For example, it can increase heart rate and decrease blood pressure. It can also make blood vessels dilate (widen), leading to red eyes and a dry mouth.
THC can also affect coordination and balance by affecting the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain that controls these functions. This is why THC is believed to produce such a wide range of effects, from feelings of relaxation and anti-inflammatory support to impaired coordination.
THC enters the body and binds to cannabinoid receptors found in the brain and throughout the nervous system. This binding activates the brain’s reward system, releasing neurotransmitters that result in feelings of pleasure.
But what does the high feel like?
For starters, users typically report feeling relaxed and euphoric. It can also heighten your senses, making colors appear brighter and sounds may seem more intense.
Some people also experience increased appetite, often referred to as “the munchies.” Of course, everyone experiences THC differently. Some people report feeling more sociable, while others may become more introspective and introverted.
But on the whole, THC produces pleasant psychoactive effects that many people love.
The effects of delta-9 THC can vary depending on the person, the dose, and the method of consumption. For example, smoking or vaporizing typically results in a more immediate and intense high than eating an edible.
Ultimately, the best way to find out what it feels like to be high on delta-9 THC is to try it yourself. But be sure to start with a low dose and go slow—you can always consume more if you don’t feel the desired effects.
Delta-9 THC has a complicated relationship with the law in many parts of the world
And it’s also the reason that cannabis is illegal in most parts of the world. The marijuana plant is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, which means that it has a high potential for drug abuse and no accepted medical use.
This classification is based on outdated science that doesn’t reflect the current understanding of cannabis.
Numerous studies have shown that delta-9 THC can have therapeutic benefits for a wide range of conditions, including pain, anxiety, and nausea [2, 3].
As a result, some countries have begun to decriminalize or legalize cannabis. Some states have medicinal marijuana programs or have legalized it for creational use. However, in most places, marijuana remains illegal and it’s possible to obtain THC legally.
The legal status of the cannabis plant has been a hot-button issue for decades.
Most people use the terms hemp and marijuana interchangeably, but there is a big difference between the two plants. Marijuana is a species of the Cannabis sativa plant explicitly grown for its psychoactive properties. On the other hand, hemp is a variety of Cannabis sativa that contains only trace amounts of THC (up to 0.3%).
In other words, you can smoke all the hemp you want, and you won’t get buzzed. This distinction is crucial because hemp can be used for various industrial and commercial purposes while marijuana is still illegal federally. However, many states have revised their marijuana laws allowing medicinal and recreational use.
The recent passage of the 2018 Farm Bill has opened up new opportunities for farmers to grow hemp and manufacturers to produce products made from its constituents, including THC.
Synthetic cannabinoids—those made in a lab and not extracted from hemp—remain illegal. Synthetic cannabinoids are dangerous and don’t have the same effects as naturally-derived cannabinoids [4].
Though the legal landscape surrounding cannabis is remains complex, it’s clear that attitudes are changing and the plant is slowly but surely becoming more accepted.
Are you searching for legal delta-9 THC products but don’t qualify for a medical cannabis license?
Here’s what you need to know.
Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, it’s legal to cultivate THC products from hemp plants.
When shopping for legal delta-9, make sure that the product is clearly labeled as containing delta-9 THC from hemp crops—not marijuana, and that the THC content of the product doesn’t exceed 0.3% by dried weight.
Secondly, check the source of the product. Only purchase products from reputable sources that are transparent about their hemp farming and extraction processes.
The only way to ensure you’re getting a quality product is to reference the certificate of analysis posted on the brand’s website. It should provide information about the cannabinoid profile, potency, and testing for contaminants, such as pesticides, solvents, and mold.
Finally, be aware of your local laws regarding delta-9 THC. In some states, it is legal to purchase and consume hemp-derived delta-9 THC products, following the Farm Bill guidance, while other states have set regulations to ban THC altogether.
Delta-9 gummies are a type of cannabis-infused edible featuring THC.
VIIA Hemp’s Delta-9 gummies are made from simple, high-quality vegan ingredients low in sugar. They feature whole hemp extract with elevated THC levels while still maintaining Farm Bill compliance, which states that as long as the delta-9 THC in the product is less than 0.3% by dried weight volume, it’s federally legal.
These gummies offer psychoactive effects to produce full-body relaxation and an elevated mood to bring a sense of contentment and peace of mind to people who can’t get ahold of legal marijuana products in their state.
Remember, delta-9 THC gummies can be derived from hemp and marijuana strains of cannabis, which isn’t federally legal. So before purchasing a delta-9 gummy, be sure to check its cannabis source and your local laws.
Delta-8 and delta-9 are both tetrahydrocannabinol—the difference lies in their chemical structure and the quantities found in cannabis plants.
They’re what are called isomers of the THC molecule.
An isomer is a molecule with the same chemical formula as another molecule but with a different structure. In the case of delta-8 and delta-9 THC, both molecules have the chemical formula C21H30O2 —but they differ in the arrangement of their atoms. This may not sound like a big deal, but it actually results in significant differences in how these two compounds interact with the human body. For example, delta-9 THC is more psychoactive than delta-8 THC.
Delta-8 THC is found in smaller concentrations in nature, but it actually has a more powerful binding affinity for the body’s cannabinoid receptors. This means that it can produce similar effects to delta-9 THC, but it is also less likely to cause anxiety or paranoia. In addition, delta-8 THC is metabolized more slowly by the body, so its effects tend to last longer.
While THC is probably the best-known active compound in cannabis, the plant produces many other cannabinoids, including CBD.
CBD or cannabidiol is the prominent cannabinoid found in hemp studied for its many potential health benefits without causing any psychoactive effects.
THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, producing the psychoactive effects associated with marijuana use. On the other hand, CBD does not bind as powerfully to these receptors. Instead, it interacts with different receptors in the body, providing many other potential health benefits. Additionally, CBD is thought to counteract some of the adverse effects of THC, such as anxiety and temporary memory impairment.
Delta-9 THC is the active ingredient in cannabis. It’s the part of the plant that gets you high. However, delta-9 THC is also found in minimal amounts in hemp plants. When hemp was legalized in 2018, the Farm Bill created a grey area for delta-9 THC products. Technically, any hemp product that contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC is considered legal under federal law. However, state laws vary, and some states have stricter regulations. So, the best way to ensure that you are buying a legal product is to check the labels and make sure that the product contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC from hemp plants.
You should also check the retailer or manufacturer’s website to see if they provide any additional information about the legal status of their products.
Keep in mind that the legal landscape around cannabis is constantly changing, so it’s always a good idea to stay up-to-date.
While some states like New York, California, and Washington have legalized the recreational use of the marijuana plant—it remains a federally Controlled Substance due to its primary psychoactive compound, THC.
In the lone star state, recreational use of marijuana—defined as cannabis plants with more than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dried weight bases— is still illegal.
But delta-9 THC isn’t exclusive to marijuana plants, and many Texans are enjoying a legal way to enjoy the elevating effects of THC.
In this post, we’ll explore the history of marijuana prohibition in Texas, how it came to be that the marijuana plant remains illegal here, and how to purchase legal cannabis products in Texas.
Delta-9 THC is the most well-known cannabinoid found in cannabis. It’s the main psychoactive component that produces a high. It’s naturally produced on tiny, crystal-like glands that cover the cannabis plant’s buds and leaves. The concentration of delta-9 THC in a given strain of cannabis can vary widely. In general, strains with higher levels of Delta-9 THC will produce more prominent effects, including euphoria, impaired short-term memory, and altered perception of time.
THC and other cannabinoids interact with cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system that manages the homeostasis of functions like memory, mood, immune function, and motor responsiveness [1].
When THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, it alters the neurotransmitter release and creates the psychoactive effects of cannabis.
When laws describe the legalities surrounding the marijuana plant, they’re referring to delta-9 THC, but there are many forms of THC, known as isomers. However, delta-9 THC isn’t exclusive to marijuana plants, and it can be found in federally legal hemp crops (up to 0.3% by dried weight basis).
Before we dive into how you can find legal THC products, it’s important to understand a few concepts surrounding cannabis law in the United States.
While the states of Colorado and Washington have recently legalized marijuana, it remains illegal in the state of Texas.
There are a number of reasons for this, including the fact that marijuana is still considered a Schedule I drug by the federal government. In addition, many people in Texas believe that marijuana should remain illegal due to its potential health risks.
However, there is also a growing movement in support of legalization, as many people believe that marijuana can be safely used for medicinal purposes. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to legalize marijuana in Texas will come down to a vote by the state legislature. Until then, the status of marijuana in Texas remains up in smoke.
The Federal Farm Bill is the primary legislation for American agriculture and food policy. The bill covers a wide range of topics including crop insurance, farm subsidies, and environmental policies.
The Farm Bill is renewed every five years, and the 2018 bill was a particularly consequential one for the cannabis industry as it legalized the production of hemp, a type of cannabis plant that contains very low levels of THC.
According to the Farm Bill, hemp plants cannot contain more than 0.3% delta-9 THC, making the plant and its cannabinoids legal, and creating new opportunities for farmers and CBD manufacturers.
The Farm Bill didn’t legalize marijuana, which remains a Schedule I drug under federal law. This distinction is important to understand when discussing the relationship between legal cannabis products.
Marijuana is illegal according to federal and state law in Texas.
Texas has a bit of a reputation when it comes to marijuana laws. For years, the state has been tough on drug offenders, handing out harsh penalties for even small amounts of possession. However, in recent years there has been a shift in public opinion, and lawmakers have started to catch up.
In 2019, the Texas Legislature passed a bill reducing penalties for low-level possession offenses. The new law went into effect on September 1, 2019, and it has already had a major impact.
According to data from the Texas Department of Public Safety, the number of misdemeanor possession arrests has decreased by more than 20% [2]. The changes to the law have also saved the state millions of dollars in court costs and jail expenses. While Texas is still far from legalization, the new law is a step in the right direction.
If you’re caught possessing or selling marijuana buds or products made from marijuana, you could face legal penalties.
The consequences will depend on the severity of your offense such as how much marijuana you have in your possession or have grown. If you’re caught with two ounces of weed or less, you can get a slap on the wrist or get charged with a Class B misdemeanor, face 180 days in jail, a $2000 fine, or all of the above.
Getting caught with large amounts of weed in the lone star state could also affect other aspects of your life too, such as state-legislated drug tests for employment.
THC isn’t exclusive to marijuana.
Hemp-derived THC isn’t “weed.” Hemp and marijuana are clearly defined in the 2018 Farm bill.
And in 2019, the Texas House Bill 1325 was passed allowing hemp plants and any part of this plant (extracts, cannabinoids, and isomers) are legal as long as the delta-9 THC concentration is not higher than 0.3%.
However, the THC must be in its natural and unadulterated form. This means that it cannot be synthetic, and it cannot be extracted from cannabis plants using chemical processes.
In order for Delta-9 THC to be legal in Texas, it must be derived from hemp plants that are grown in compliance with the state’s agricultural regulations.
VIIA delta-9 and delta-8 THC products have psychoactive effects and are legal in Texas.
How is this possible?
You can create hemp-derived delta-9 THC products containing a dose to produce psychoactive effects (5–25 mg) as long as the product contains less than 0.3% of the other ingredients on a dry weight basis, which is well within the state hemp laws.
The Texas State Health Services has implemented a medical marijuana program, but not everyone is eligible for this medical THC as only patients with certain medical conditions can get a prescription for low-strength THC medical products.
Shopping for legal delta-9 THC can be a challenge, but it’s worth the effort to find a product that meets your needs. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Following these tips will help you shop smarter for hemp-derived products in Texas. With a little effort, you can find a product that meets your needs and delivers the results you’re looking for.
Delta-8 THC is an isomer of delta-9 THC, meaning that it has a similar chemical structure but with a few slight differences.
Both delta-8 and delta-9 THC bind to the CB1 receptors in the brain, but delta-8 THC has a lower binding affinity than delta-9 THC. This means that it is not as potent as delta-9 THC and produces more subtle effects.
Some users report feeling more clearheaded and energetic after using delta-8 THC, while others say it helps them to relax. The legality of delta-8 THC is currently unclear, as it is not specifically listed in the US Controlled Substances Act.
In 2019, Texas lawmakers tried to criminalize all forms of THC, even if it comes from legal hemp, but it failed to pass thanks to a temporary injunction on the state’s ban.
The most common form of drug testing is urine tests, which detect the metabolites of illicit substances. Whether your source of THC is legal or not, the liver will break it down into the same metabolite, THC-COOH.
While you may find THC detox kits available online, they’re not always guaranteed to work. If you are expected to have regular drug tests for THC use, you should steer clear of all forms of THC at least a month before the test.
The best form of legal THC in Texas is edibles as it’s possible to maintain high enough concentrations of THC to produce psychoactive effects while staying well below the 0.3% THC limit by dried weight basis.
You’re not likely to feel any elevating effects from smoking hemp flower or delta-9 THC vape pens made from hemp as it contains too little THC in order to stay within the legal guidelines.
Alternatives to delta-9 THC vapes are its isomers, delta-8 THC and delta-10 THC. Compared to delta-9, these isomers aren’t as potent but they are psychoactive. There are many people who prefer delta-8 and 10 to 9 for their lighter, clear-headed effects.
Hemp-derived THC gummies are an excellent option as they’re discreet and come in pre-measured doses of THC for more accurate dosing.
So, is Delta-9 THC legal in Texas? The short answer is yes—but there are some caveats.
Marijuana remains is a controlled substance, and possessing large quantities of marijuana can result in criminal charges.
The good news is that THC isn’t just found in marijuana, but it can also be harvested from hemp plants as long as the final product contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. Even THC isomers found in hemp such as delta-8 THC is legal under this distinction.
All VIIA delta-8 and delta-9 THC are made from Farm Bill-compliant hemp crops and maintain a range of synergetic cannabinoids and terpenes for a more balanced and potent experience.