Many people seek out delta-9 THC for the myriad benefits, although it’s also popular on an immaculately recreational level. However, for whatever reason you use THC, one thing is clear, THC or delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol is the most potent cannabinoid of all. There are many different cannabinoids, and each one has its beneficial properties. With that said, what is delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol or THC? 

In this blog, Cannabis Doctors will be discussing what is Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol? Why it is so loved by marijuana fans and all the facts about this cannabinoid. 

Let’s get started.

What is Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol?

Every cannabis user must be familiar with the name THC. Because Delta 9 is the most abundant form of THC found in the cannabis plant, people refer to it simply as THC. Other isomers of THC also exist, like delta 8 and delta 10 THC, which always are discussed by referring to their full name to avoid confusion. 

THC or delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol is the primary psychoactive ingredient found in the cannabis plant. When you take marijuana, this delta-9 THC is responsible for causing a high. It all started when Raphael Mechoulam first discovered THC in 1964. He extracted THC from cannabis and found that the molecule could pass through the blood-brain barrier. He further studied and realized that THC is the primary ingredient in marijuana responsible for psychoactive effects. This discovery paved the way for further research on cannabinoids and their interaction with the body. 

Talking about the chemical structure of delta 9 THC, the double bond is located on the 9th carbon atom, hence the name. Similarly, THC isomers like delta 8 and 10 THC have this double bond in eighth and tenth positions. This slight difference leads to different pharmacological effects.

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What is Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol; History

Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary chemical present in the cannabis plant and is one of the oldest medicinal remedies known to humankind. It dates back to the first century A.D when the Chinese have used cannabis extracts as a herbal drug. For centuries this plant has been widely grown worldwide for its fiber. However, now cannabis is more commonly recognized as the source of marijuana. the word marijuana involves the whole plant and resin, also called Hashish. 

Is Delta-9 THC Natural?

If you are interested in knowing what is delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol? you may also wonder if it is synthetic or natural? Delta-9 THC is a significant cannabinoid in pretty large quantities found naturally in the cannabis plant, so the extraction is simple and less expensive. The primary source of delta-9 is specifically marijuana. Nevertheless, when it comes to delta-9 THC products, the factories extract THC from the plant and convert it into a more concentrated extract that usually contains high amounts of THC than you typically find in the plant.

 

How Does Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol Work?

The two primary questions a new cannabis user might ask is what is delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol? and how it works? The Endocannabinoid system is the most substantial physiologic system to establish and sustain human health. This system was named after cannabis, which led to discovery of this fantastic endogenous system. 

These endocannabinoids and their receptors are located throughout your body, including the brain, organs, and immune system. The ECS is responsible for performing different tasks in each tissue, with the primary goal of achieving homeostasis. 

Delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabinol, or simply THC, is one of the most abundant cannabinoids in cannabis. When you consume it, it binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in your endocannabinoid system (ECS), producing specific results such as relieving pain, stimulating your appetite, or helping you to doze off. 

Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol Effects

THC interacts with ECS and produces its effects on the mind and body, as discussed above. However, the results may differ from person to person. Other factors that may cause you to have a different THC experience include the type of marijuana strains, what THC product you are using, THC isomers (delta-8 and delta-10), and what other cannabinoids present in your product.  

Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol Effects on Brain

Delta-9 THC is one of the hundreds of cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant and the primary psychoactive component of marijuana. It activates cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors. It is now generally accepted that delta-9 THC produces its psychoactive effects by activating CB1 receptors within the brain. There are numerous neurons present in the human brain. Neurons use chemicals or neurotransmitters, to transmit signals from one neuron to the other. The THC enables the release of a neurotransmitter called dopamine in the brain, which causes feelings of euphoria, excitement, joy, and more. However, the effects may vary and your experience with THC might be completely different from the other user, depending on certain factors.  

Physical Effects of Delta-9 THC

When you consume delta-9 THC, it also produces a series of effects on your body other than the classical psychoactive effects. Again, the effects may vary from person to person. Some common effects marijuana users report is; increased appetite, heightened sensory perception and extreme relaxation. 

 

Other than that, research suggests that delta-9 THC is also associated with some side effects such as anxiety, panic attacks, and increased risks of psychosis. It happens more often with people who take marijuana in larger doses. 

Will Delta-9 Make You High?

 

Yes, the simple answer is that delta-9 THC will get you high. Since it is the primary psychoactive component found in marijuana, there is no doubt it can make you stoned in no time. However, THCA, a precursor of THC, is the non-psychoactive component in marijuana that possesses various therapeutic benefits. Therefore, you will not feel slightly intoxicated if you consume raw cannabis buds before degradation or heating. 

What is Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol? Is Delta-9 Legal?

While marijuana, due to its high THC content and psychoactive properties, is a federally controlled substance, medical marijuana, because of its immense therapeutic benefits, is legal in many states in the U.S., including Illinois. On the other hand, hemp-derived delta-9 contains less than 0.3% THC and is legal in all states throughout the U.S. according to the farm 18 Bill. 

Delta-10 THC vs. Delta-9

Delta-10 THC is a relatively discovery in the cannabis industry. It is the THC isomer that is found naturally in minuscule quantities. It is popular among marijuana users because it’s beneficial yet far less psychoactive than delta-9 THC. Even though Delta- 10 is still under investigation, anecdotal data suggests that it has an uplifting, euphoric impact while promoting enhanced attention and energy. Delta-10 THC is an ideal cannabinoid for beginners or students who want to experience the benefits of THC without losing focus. However, for recreational users, delta-9 THC is an all-time favorite. 

What is Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol? Uses of THC

While marijuana is popular among users for recreational purposes, it also has various medicinal properties. People have been using marijuana for its medicinal uses since ancient times. 

According to Harvard Health, marijuana or delta-9 THC is an excellent remedy for chronic pain relief. It is also effective for easing the pain associated with multiple sclerosis. Moreover, medical marijuana can also be used as an excellent muscle relaxant. Many patients with Parkinson’s disease report that it lessens tremors to a great extent. Some other uses include relieving nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy.

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What is Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol? Key Takeaway

We hope now you better understand what is Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol? THC is the primary cannabinoid in marijuana responsible for causing intoxication. However, THC has been known and liked for its mind-altering and therapeutic properties in recent times. Indeed, it gives users a unique experience because of its potency and effectiveness. We recommend talking to qualified cannabis doctors before starting with any cannabis product. If you seek marijuana treatment for any debilitating condition, you need to apply for a medical marijuana card in Illinois and a licensed doctor’s recommendation. If you want to visit in person or book a telehealth appointment MCD welcomes you!