Cannabis products, often referred to as “weed,” are derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. A common question concerns the presence of Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-9 THC) in all forms of this plant. The answer lies in the plant’s diverse chemical composition, which includes a complex array of compounds.
What is Delta-9 THC?
Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-9 THC) is the primary compound responsible for the psychoactive effects commonly associated with cannabis. Its chemical structure allows it to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, binding to cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain and central nervous system. This interaction leads to effects like euphoria, relaxation, altered perception, and increased appetite.
Delta-9 THC influences neurotransmitter release, such as dopamine, in the brain’s reward pathways, contributing to pleasurable sensations. While intoxicating, Delta-9 THC has also been studied for potential therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, anti-nausea effects, and appetite stimulation. However, its consumption can also lead to side effects like anxiety, impaired coordination, and short-term memory issues.
The Diversity of Cannabinoids
The cannabis plant is rich in chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, with over 100 identified. While Delta-9 THC is prominent, it is just one of many cannabinoids, each possessing unique properties. Among these are non-psychoactive compounds such as Cannabidiol (CBD), which does not produce a “high” and is often associated with calming effects.
Another group includes precursor acids like Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCa) and Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDa). THCa is abundant in raw cannabis plants and does not cause intoxication. When exposed to heat, THCa converts into psychoactive Delta-9 THC. Similarly, CBDa is the acidic precursor to CBD, converting to CBD when heated. Both THCa and CBDa show potential therapeutic properties, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects, even before conversion.
Delta-9 Levels in Different Cannabis Plants
The amount of Delta-9 THC varies significantly across different types of Cannabis sativa plants, broadly categorized as marijuana and hemp. Marijuana typically contains higher concentrations of Delta-9 THC, often ranging from 5% to over 30% of the total dry weight. Different strains of marijuana are cultivated to exhibit varying Delta-9 THC levels, influencing their potency and effects.
In contrast, hemp is legally defined in many regions, including under federal law in the United States, as Cannabis sativa plants containing no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis. This low concentration means hemp is not considered intoxicating. The distinction between hemp and marijuana is primarily based on this Delta-9 THC content.
The Rise of Novel Cannabinoids
Beyond Delta-9 THC and CBD, other cannabinoids, often termed “novel” or “minor,” have emerged. These include compounds like Delta-8 THC and hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). Delta-8 THC is an isomer of Delta-9 THC, meaning it has a similar chemical structure but with a slight difference in double bond placement. While naturally occurring in cannabis plants, Delta-8 THC is found in very small, trace amounts.
To produce commercially viable quantities of Delta-8 THC, it is often synthesized from more abundant cannabinoids, particularly CBD extracted from hemp, through chemical conversion. Similarly, HHC is another cannabinoid often produced semi-synthetically. These novel cannabinoids can produce psychoactive effects, though Delta-8 THC is generally considered less potent than Delta-9 THC. Their increased availability, often derived from hemp, offers alternatives to naturally abundant Delta-9 THC.