Are you curious about cannabinoids beyond the popular delta-9 THC?
Delta-9 THC is known for its psychoactive effects and is still considered illegal under federal law. However, it is worth noting that delta-9 THC derived from hemp in accordance with the 2018 Farm Bill is fully legal because it contains less than 0.3% of THC.
As a result, hemp-derived delta-9 THC makes legal highs widely accessible no matter what state you’re in.
But did you know that there are also alternative cannabinoids gaining popularity as legal alternatives to THC? The each have their own unique effects on the body.
Delta-8, delta-10, and THC-O are similar to delta-9 THC but have slightly different chemical structures and effects. Delta-8 and delta-10 are found in much smaller quantities in cannabis plants, while THC-O is a synthetic compound that is created by converting hemp-derived CBD.
In this blog post, we’ll explore these alternative cannabinoids and provide product recommendations to try out. Let’s dive in!
What is Delta-9?
Delta-9 is a chemical compound found in both cannabis and hemp plants. It is the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana and is responsible for the plant’s mind-altering effects.
Delta-9 is just one of many plant cannabinoids that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various physiological processes. Cannabinoids come in different concentrations varying by cannabis strain and causing different effects.
When people speak of THC, they’re referring to Delta-9. THC It is the most abundant and potent cannabinoid in the cannabis plant.
Is Delta-9 THC legal?
So you may be wonder, if THC is illegal, why is this other form of Delta-9 THC legal?
Delta-9 THC is fully legal if it is derived from hemp in accordance with the 2018 Farm Bill. This is because hemp-derived delta-9 THC contains less than 0.3% of THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use.
What are the Effects of Delta-9?
When Delta-9 is consumed, it binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and central nervous system, producing a range of effects on the body. These effects can vary depending on the individual and the method of consumption, but can include:
- Euphoria and relaxation
- Altered perception of time and space
- Increase in appetite
- Dry mouth and red eyes
- Impaired memory and concentration
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Paranoia and anxiety in some individuals
Delta-9 has also been shown to have potential medical benefits, including pain relief, reduction of inflammation, and management of symptoms related to chemotherapy and HIV/AIDS.
Popular THC Alternatives that are Legal
As the legalization of marijuana continues to spread, so does the interest in alternative cannabinoids that offer similar effects without the legal implications.
Here are some popular legal THC alternatives:
Delta 8 THC – Mild Euphoria
Delta 8 THC is a psychoactive compound that is similar to delta 9 THC, but with a slightly different chemical structure. It is known for its mild euphoric effects and is often used as a legal alternative to delta 9 THC. Delta 8 THC is derived from hemp and is federally legal, but it is important to note that it may still be illegal in some states.
Delta 10 THC – Mild Psychotropic
This is a newly discovered cannabinoid that is said to be similar to Delta-9 THC. It also has a more energizing and uplifting effect. It is federally legal. Delta 10 THC is a close relative to delta 9 THC and offers a milder psychotropic effect. It is less common than delta 8 THC and delta 9 THC, but is still a popular alternative for those seeking a more mild high. Delta 10 THC can be derived from both hemp and cannabis plants.
HHC – Synthetic cannabinoid
Hydroxyhexahydrocannabinol is a synthetic cannabinoid that is said to be similar to Delta-9 THC, but with a more uplifting effect. It is also legal at the federal level.
THC-O – Very Potent High
THC-O, also known as THC acetate, is a synthetic cannabinoid that is much more potent than delta 9 THC. It is known for its intense psychoactive effects and is often used by experienced cannabis users. THC-O is legal in some states, but it is important to note that it may still be illegal in others.
THCa – Non-psychoactive
THCA is the acid form of THC and is found in raw cannabis plants. It is non-psychoactive, but is believed to have a variety of potential health benefits. THCA is often consumed in the form of raw cannabis juice or added to smoothies and other beverages.
THCv – Enhanced cognition
THCv, or tetrahydrocannabivarin, is a psychoactive cannabinoid that is believed to have a variety of potential health benefits.
It is often used to suppress appetite and is believed to have potential as a treatment for diabetes. THCV is typically found in sativa strains of cannabis.
THCV is also used for cerebral clarity, productivity, and attention. It is recommended as a good beginner cannabinoid to experiment with.
CBN – Non-psychoactive & sedative
CBN, or cannabinol, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is believed to have a variety of potential health benefits. It is often used as a sleep aid and is believed to have sedative effects. CBN is typically derived from aged cannabis plants.
CBD – Non-psychoactive and very popular
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is believed to have a variety of potential health benefits. It is often used to treat anxiety, pain, and inflammation. CBD is derived from hemp and is legal in all 50 states.
Interested in other legal highs aside from cannabids? You might be interested in Kratom or Amanita Muscaria mushrooms.
Shop for Alternative Cannabinoids
Binoid
CBDmd Popular
TRE House Popular
Practice Safety with Your Cannabinoids
Some of these cannabinoids are relatively new to the market and are currently not well known. In a short span of time, the market has become flushed with a wide range of options for various delta products.
You can find alternative cannabinoid and delta products available as gummies, vapes, and even dabs, just as you would any other cannabis product.
It’s important to note that just because these cannabinoids are legal and widely available doesn’t mean they are safe or without any side effects. Legal hemp-derived delta-9 THC products definitely get you stoned.
You should always start slow and with low doses when trying any new substance. Follow the guidelines you normally would for standard dosages of cannabis depending on the product type.
As with any substance, it’s important to do your research and use caution when trying them out. It’s also important to note that the legality of these cannabinoids can vary by state, so be sure to check your local laws before purchasing or using them.
What are the Best Cannabinoids for Beginners?
THCv and Delta-8 THC are recommended for those new to cannabis. Both of these cannabinoids are available in a range of product types from vapes to gummies. Because of their mild effects and ability to relax both body and mind, this is a great place to start.
Once you have a better understanding of how these two cannabinoids interact with your body, you can graduate to hemp-derived Delta-9 or other THC cannabis products.
If you’re feeling adventurous and looking for additional ways to experience legal altered states of consciousness, you might also be interested in amanita muscaria mushroom gummies.
Have you tried any of these cannabinoids or other legal THC alternatives?
Let us know in the comments below!
