What is Delta-10 THC

The cannabis plant boasts more than 500 different chemical compounds, even though many people are only familiar with a few, such as THC and CBD. Because those compounds have been associated with dozens of therapeutic benefits (in addition to recreational use), there is growing interest in using other compounds in a wide variety of cannabis consumer products. 

The "standard" THC many people are familiar with is what is known as delta-9, but delta-10 is quickly making a name for itself in the cannabis industry. 

While delta-9 THC and delta-10 share many similarities, there are some important distinguishing factors as well. We will take a closer look at delta-10 THC, its origins, its uses, and its benefits below.

What Is Delta-10 THC?

THC is a chemical compound present in cannabis, and the delta-9 version is what we extract in high percentages for many consumer products, from edibles to vapes. Delta-10 actually shares the same formula, but its components are arranged differently, so the resulting effects are similar (spoiler alert: delta-10 THC can produce a "high") but not identical.

Delta-10 THC does exist in trace amounts in cannabis; however, it is not prominent enough to extract in commercial quantities. Therefore, a conversion process is required in order for manufacturers to have a large enough supply of the compound to use it in various products.

Delta-10 can be created out of a process called isomerization. Simply put, isomerization is the process of using chemicals to change the structure of a compound. Its formula is still the same, but in this particular case, the result is a double bond on the 10th carbon chain. From there, you can easily deduce that delta-9 has a double bond on its 9th carbon chain.

While your memories of high school chemistry classes may be a bit hazy, you do not need to be an expert scientist to understand how this process creates a version of THC with its own unique properties and effects. 

Users often describe the different effects and benefits of delta-8, delta-9, and delta-10 products. The increasing availability of options allows consumers to try out different compounds to see what best suits their needs.

Cannabis users come from all walks of life and in search of a wide variety of benefits. Some may be seeking a natural remedy for pain management, while others may be looking to improve their quality of sleep. Cannabis products are often used to manage anxiety and stress, to boost creativity and productivity, and even to reduce inflammation.

A Lighter High

One of the most common impressions of delta-10 THC is that its effects are not as potent in terms of the high associated with delta-9 (or delta-8). This might be considered a "pro" for some users and a "con" for others. Tailoring cannabis use to your own desired benefits may mean that some occasions call for delta-10, and many users describe it as better for a "daytime" high.

Delta-10 products may uplift your mood or reduce stress without creating effects that would disrupt your work or studies, for example. You may find that delta-10 is your go-to THC for a quick mood boost during the day, especially if you are battling stress and anxiety.

Is Delta-10 Legal?

One common question when it comes to newer forms of THC is whether or not they can be purchased legally. While you should always check your own state's specific regulations, you can generally expect delta-10 THC to be legal if derived from hemp and in products with quantities of less than .03 percent delta-9 THC. 

Read ingredient lists carefully for any cannabis products you are interested in purchasing to better understand how the stipulations of the 2018 Farm Bill will apply. Along those same lines, bear in mind that the use of delta-10 products could result in a failed drug screening if that is something required by your employer.

How Does Delta-10 Compare to CBD?

CBD products are incredibly popular and come in a variety of forms, from gummies to capsules to drops that can be added to your morning cup of coffee. CBD is itself an incredibly therapeutic compound, but it is easily distinguishable from THC because it does not have psychoactive properties. There's no "high" associated with CBD.

While delta-10 THC produces a high, it is not as euphoric or potent as the buzzy effects of delta-9 THC. Therefore, it appeals to people who are looking for a little more of a "kick" than what CBD offers, but perhaps they do not want to experience the full-blown high from delta-9 THC.

Key Takeaways: Delta-10 THC

Delta-10 THC is still relatively new in terms of its availability in the consumer market, though we expect as more research is devoted to the various compounds naturally occurring in cannabis as well as those produced through isomerization, we will see a growing market and demand for delta-10.

Delta-10 will likely be used in more cannabis products such as gummies, tinctures, and capsules, and its availability should become more widespread in dispensaries alongside other products moving forward.

Delta-10 is generally considered legal as covered under the Farm Bill of 2018, and consumers should also pay attention to the laws specific to their own states when purchasing any cannabis products.

Delta-10 THC shows tremendous promise as a compound with similar benefits to others derived from cannabis. It is already considered an especially effective "daytime high," with a mild euphoric boost but without the sedative effects that may be experienced with delta-9. Delta-10 provides a promising new option for cannabis aficionados to explore.