Delta 9 is the main compound in cannabis responsible for the euphoric sensation commonly known as being “high” or “stoned.” Interestingly, delta 9 can also be derived from hemp, a type of cannabis plant legally defined as containing less than 0.3% THC by dry weight.
The 2018 Farm Bill in the United States legalized hemp and hemp-derived delta 9 products, provided they meet the THC threshold. This legal status has sparked interest in hemp-derived delta 9 products for their potential therapeutic and psychoactive effects.
As a result, many people are curious whether hemp-derived delta 9 can produce the same high as cannabis, or if the experience is different.
In this article, we’ll explore whether hemp-derived delta 9 can get you high and discuss how its effects compare to cannabis.
Understanding Delta 9
Delta 9 is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp plants. It’s the primary compound responsible for the euphoric and psychoactive effects commonly associated with cannabis use.
When consumed, delta 9 interacts with the endocannabinoid system in our bodies, particularly the CB1 receptors in the brain. This interaction releases neurotransmitters that influence mood, perception, and cognition, resulting in the feeling of being “high.”
Does Hemp-derived Delta-9 Get You High?
Even though hemp-derived delta 9 products have a lower concentration, they can still produce psychoactive effects, so much so that for a regular adult, a small amount of 5 to 10 mg of delta 9, can produce a noticeable high that can last for several hours.
While a regular cannabis user may need a dosage of 10 to 30 mg of delta 9 to feel similar effects.
How is Hemp-derived Delta 9 Different from Cannabis?
The main difference between hemp-derived delta 9 and cannabis lies in their legal status and the concentration of THC in the plant material. Hemp-derived delta 9 comes from hemp plants that contain less than 0.3% delta 9 by dry weight, making them legal under federal law in the United States.
On the other hand, cannabis or cannabis-derived delta 9 comes from marijuana plants, which can contain much higher levels of THC (typically between 3% and 30%). They are federally illegal and are regulated differently depending on state laws.
Given its federal legality, hemp-derived delta 9 products can be sold online and shipped across state lines, provided they comply with federal and state regulations. However, cannabis products are restricted to states where it is legal, and they cannot be shipped across state lines.
In terms of chemical structure and effects on the body, there is no difference between hemp-derived and cannabis-derived delta 9.
Can a Regular Cannabis User Get High on Delta-9?
A regular cannabis user can indeed get high on hemp-derived delta 9, though the intensity of the high will depend on the dosage. Since the psychoactive effects of delta 9 are consistent regardless of the source, consuming a decent dosage of hemp-derived delta 9 can produce similar effects to consuming cannabis.
Although, there are several factors that influence whether a regular cannabis user can get high on hemp-derived delta 9:
Concentration Limits:
Hemp-derived products are legally limited to containing no more than 0.3% delta 9 by dry weight. This means that products like edibles, tinctures, and vapes often have lower concentrations of THC compared to traditional cannabis products.
So a regular cannabis user may need to consume a larger quantity of hemp-derived products to achieve the desired effects due to these concentration limits.
Product Formulation:
Despite the low concentration limit, hemp manufacturers can formulate delta 9 products in ways that deliver a significant dose of THC.
For example, an edible made with a large amount of delta 9 can still provide enough THC to produce psychoactive effects. A regular cannabis user would need to pay attention to the total milligram content of THC in the product rather than just the concentration percentage.
Dosage:
The amount of delta 9 consumed is the primary determinant of its psychoactive effects. Even for regular users with higher tolerance levels, consuming a sufficiently high dose of hemp-derived delta 9 (between 10 to 30 mg) can produce a noticeable high.
Final thoughts
Hemp-derived delta 9 offers an intriguing option for those seeking the psychoactive effects of THC within the bounds of legality. Unlike cannabis, which remains federally illegal in the United States and is only legal in certain states, delta 9 enjoys legality thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill.
This critical distinction makes delta 9 accessible to a broader audience, including those in states where cannabis use is still prohibited.
However, it is important to approach delta 9 use with caution, particularly if you are a new user, even small doses of delta 9 (like, 5 mg) can produce a noticeable high. While regular cannabis users can also enjoy delta 9, they might need a little more potency.
Disclosure:
The information provided in this article is meant for general use only and may not always suit everyone’s individual needs. Your health and wellness are personal, so you should consult a medical professional for personalized advice before making decisions based on our content. For more information, please read our Disclosure Policy.