Different Types Of THC Isomers & Their Benefits: D8, D9, D10

As the world continues to embrace cannabis use, understanding the complexity of the cannabis plant and its various components has never been more important.

THC is the compound in cannabis responsible for it’s famous mind altering effects.

Not only is THC the main psychoactive compound found in cannabis, it’s also the primary compound responsible for the therapeutic potential associated with medical marijuana.

But were you aware that there are actually different types of THC?

With an array of types of THC variants, each with unique properties, it’s crucial to explore the intricacies of this fascinating compound.

That’s exactly what we’ll do in this article. Keep reading for a deeper dive into the world of the THC compound.

Key Takeaways

• THC is the most prevalent of over 100 cannabinoids that have been discovered in the cannabis plant to date.
• While there are several types of THC, Delta 9 THC is the main type of THC found in cannabis plants that induces a high.
• Other THC variants, such as Delta 8 THC and Delta 10 THC, contain somewhat different properties than Delta 9 but do contain similar mind altering effects.
• Other related THC types and compounds like THCV and THCA (unless decarbed) may provide potential benefits without the mind altering properties of Delta 9, 8 and 10.

Understanding THC: The Key Component in Cannabis

THC is the primary cannabis compound that contains the mind altering properties that have made the marijuana plant so famous.

This compound works its mind altering magic by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. It’s intoxicating effects occur specifically because of its binding affinity to CB1 cannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system.

These mind altering effects are also what have made THC an illegal drug for decades.

Despite the controversy surrounding the psychoactive effects of the cannabinoid, countless individuals have turned to the cannabis plant for thousands of years because of its therapeutic properties.

Medical marijuana is legal in 38 states and Washington D.C. Scientific research supports that the specific THC compound contains some real medical potential, playing a role in managing chronic pain, anxiety, improving sleep and inflammation.

While CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid with numerous therapeutic effects, THC stands out for its psychoactive effects and potential medical benefits.

THC’s interaction with other cannabinoids is also quite intricate, lending to what’s known as the entourage effect. This widely accepted theory suggests that cannabis plant compounds work better together than their isolated counterparts.

There isn’t just one type of THC though. And the different types of THC offer their own individual benefits and effects that aren’t necessarily found in Delta 9.

A Closer Look at Different Types of THC

As we delve deeper into the wide world of THC, it’s essential to understand the different types of THC.

You’ve got the famous Delta 9, but there’s also Delta 8 and Delta 10. Each of these THC types has its own distinct characteristics.

These variants play a crucial role in the effects and potential health benefits associated with THC.

Delta 9 THC is the primary type of THC in the cannabis plant.

It’s also the most abundant, and just so happens to be the main psychoactive compound cannabis contains. Its intoxicating, euphoric effects are caused by its influence on the brain and nervous system.

In the US, the legal distinction between hemp and marijuana per the 2018 Farm Bill is based on the concentration of Delta-9 THC the plant contains. Both the hemp plant and marijuana are types of the Cannabis sativa L. plant species.

The hemp plant is defined as that with a Delta 9 THC concentration of 0.3% or less, while the marijuana plant is defined as any cannabis plant that contains more than 0.3 Delta 9 THC.

Hemp derived THC is federally legal if cannabis products contain less than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis. THC derived from marijuana, however, is only legal in states that have passed medical and/or recreational marijuana laws.

But Delta 9 isn’t the only type of THC produced in cannabis plants.

Delta-8 THC

Delta 8 THC is similar to Delta 9. Chemically speaking, it possesses the same number of elements and atoms but its chemical structure is different.

The only real difference is that the double bond isomer of one of the carbon atom chains is in a different position. Delta 9 has a ninth carbon atom with a double bond, while Delta 8 has an eighth carbon atom with a double bond.

Like Delta 9, the effects of Delta 8 are caused by the way it interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system.

Delta 8 THC is federally legal when derived from hemp, and is typically created by transforming Delta 9 THC or CBD through chemical processes.

Its intoxicating effects are similar to Delta 9, but it’s much less potent. Most consumers find Delta 8 THC to be about half as strong as D9.

Delta 10 THC

Delta 10 THC is another type of THC, with the same chemical composition of D9 but a different structure.

Delta 9 has the double carbon bond on the ninth carbon bond, while Delta 10 has a double carbon bond on the tenth bond. The name Delta 10 comes from its position on the tenth carbon chain.

Although the effects of Delta 10 THC haven’t been extensively researched, it’s said that D10 is more invigorating than D9. Some compare the effects of D10 to energizing sativa cannabis strains.

It’s considered one of minor cannabinoids, as it only occurs in cannabis in trace amounts.

It does offer its own unique effects and potential benefits, adding to the variety of options available for those seeking specific experiences with THC.

As the hemp industry continues to grow, so does the interest in exploring lesser-known cannabinoids like Delta 10 THC.

Beyond the primary THC variants, there are other related THC compounds that also offer potential benefits, such as THCA (THC precursor), THCV and THCP.

These compounds also contain their own unique properties and may provide additional therapeutic options for those seeking relief from various medical conditions.

THCA

THCA, or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, is the acidic precursor of THC and the most natural form of THC types.

This raw form of THC, commonly referred to as the acidic form of THC, doesn’t produce any psychoactive effects, as it doesn’t bond to CB1 cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system. However, when its decarboxylated, it turns into THC.

Yup. That’s right, hemp rich in THCA will get you high if you smoke it like weed.

There’s research to suggest that this specific compound may offer potential benefits as a neuroprotectant, may contain anti-nausea effects and support metabolic health.

Hemp-derived THCA is legal at the federal level, offering another option for those seeking the potential benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects associated with other THC compounds.

As research on THC-A continues, more applications for this unique cannabinoid may be discovered.

THCV

THCV is yet another type of THC, that is generally considered non-psychoactive when consumed in small and moderate amounts.

That said, it can produce a more focused and energizing effect when taken in higher doses.

The onset is said to be faster, with effects that are energizing and motivating like sativa cannabis strains. The effects produced by THCV are short-lived, however, compared to Delta 9 THC.

THCV is often referred to as “diet weed,” with research showing it works as an appetite suppressant. Another recent study also found that THCV may reduce the adverse effects associated with THC.

Hence the increased popularity of THCV gummies.

THCP

THCP is a cannabinoid with a 7-carbon chain that’s more potent than Delta 9 THC that offers a rapid response in both mind and body.

Structurally similar to Delta-9 THC but featuring a seven-link side chain, THCP is a unique compound that may cause effects more intense and longer-lasting than those associated with Delta 9 THC.

This powerful cannabinoid is said to be 30x as strong as Delta 9, making it the strongest THC compound that exists. This means that low doses of this type of THC (such as when consuming THCP gummies and other products) are best to start with to avoid an overwhelming experience.

As research into THC-P continues, its unique properties and potential applications may pave the way for a new understanding of THC and its effects on the human body.

Synthetic Cannabinoids: THC-O and HHC

In addition to naturally occurring THC compounds, there are synthetic cannabinoids such as THCO and HHC that have been created to produce effects similar to those of THC.

These compounds offer unique experiences and potential benefits, further expanding the possibilities for those seeking therapeutic relief from cannabis-related products.

THCO

THCO, also called THC-O acetate, is a hemp-derived synthetic cannabinoid with a chemical structure and effects similar to those of THC.

The production of THC-O acetate involves the alteration of Delta 8 THC with acetic anhydride.

This compound was federally legal when synthesized from hemp, but it has recently been made illegal via a notice from the DEA, largely due to the fact it’s not naturally produced by the cannabis plant.

THC-O was previously available in various cannabis products, including gummies, vape carts and tinctures, offering consumers a range of consumption options.

HHC

HHC, or 11-Nor-9-hydroxyhexahydrocannabinol, is a natural compound commonly found in hemp and marijuana.

Because it occurs only in trace amounts, HHC is typically synthesized from hemp-derived CBD. Because of this, it’s considered a semi-synthetic cannabinoid.

The HHC cannabis products widely available on the market are known to produce a very mild euphoric high.

HHC is primarily offered in the form of carts, but other mediums such as gummies are also available.

As the hemp industry continues to evolve, it’s likely that more synthetic cannabinoids like HHC will emerge, offering additional options for those seeking the therapeutic benefits of cannabis-related products.

What Types Of THC are Best For You?

With such a vast array of THC products and variants available, finding the right one for your needs can be a daunting task.

From edibles, flower and concentrates to vape carts and tinctures, the choices are seemingly endless.

When selecting from different types of THC, it’s important to keep in mind that each variant offers unique effects and potential benefits.

By understanding the different types of THC and their respective properties, you can make an informed decision and choose the product that best suits your personal needs and desired effects.

Whether you’re looking for mind and bodily relaxation, an appetite suppressant, something to help with muscle spasms or to support chronic pain, there are several types of THC to meet your own unique needs.

Wrapping Up

The world of THC is vast, complex and full of possibilities.

From naturally occurring compounds like Delta 9, Delta 8 and Delta 10, to related compounds such as THCA, THCV and THC-P (as well synthetic cannabinoids like THC-O and HHC), there are plenty of THC options to choose from.

As research continues to uncover new information about these compounds, their unique properties and potential benefits, the future of THC and its variants looks promising and full of potential.

Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis enthusiast or just beginning your journey, there’s no better time to explore the fascinating world of THC and its many variants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between HHC vs THC?

The effects of HHC are all anecdotal, but we do know that HHC produces a similar high to Delta 9 THC that is much milder. Most consumers report the high is something between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9.

Is THCP stronger than HHC?

THCP is considered the strongest cannabinoid there is, meaning it is much stronger than HHC. THCP is said to be 30x stronger than Delta 9, meaning it’s definitely stronger than HHC.

What different types of THC are there?

THC, the main psychoactive component of cannabis, is known to come in four distinct forms. These forms are THCA, THCV, Delta 8 THC and Delta-9 THC, each with their own unique properties and benefits.