What's the Deal with Delta-9?

If you’ve bought hemp-derived plant products from Wanderous (or anywhere else), you’ve likely come across the term, “Delta-9-THC.” You also likely have questions! What IS Delta-9? Is it different from regular THC? Is it legal? Is it safe?

We can’t all be chemists, but understanding the basics about Delta-9 is essential to enjoying hemp products safely and effectively. We asked our team of award-winning plant experts to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Delta-9-THC.

What Is Delta-9-THC?

Delta-9-THC is just the long, scientific name for the molecule more commonly known as plain old “THC.” If you’ve ever smoked, vaped, or ingested regulated cannabis (aka “marijuana”), you have consumed Delta-9-THC. Famously, it produces a euphoric “high,” and can also promote sleepiness, stimulate appetite, and help relieve stress or discomfort.

But I’m not shopping for marijuana. I’m shopping for hemp. What gives?

You may be surprised to learn that hemp and marijuana are essentially the same plant: they’re both classified as cannabis. “Hemp” refers to a cannabis plant that contains no greater than .3% THC by net weight. “Marijuana,” also known as regulated cannabis, is a plant that contains more than that.

Crucially, this means that hemp does naturally produce Delta-9-THC – just a bit less of it than its more potent plant relatives.

Does hemp-derived Delta-9-THC have the same effect as “regular” Delta-9?

Yes! Delta-9-THC is Delta-9-THC. It’s the same molecule, and produces the same intoxicating effects, whether it’s extracted from hemp or from “marijuana.”

How is it legal to sell hemp-derived Delta-9-THC online?

The 2018 Farm Bill made it federally legal to buy and sell hemp products, both online and at retail locations. That means that Delta-9-THC extracted from hemp – remember, a plant containing no more than .3% THC by net weight – is also federally legal.

(It’s worth noting that some STATE regulations do prohibit the sale of intoxicating hemp compounds. But don’t worry about accidentally breaking the law. Wanderous won’t ship THC products to states that have banned them.)

What about Delta-8-THC?

Some hemp companies – Wanderous NOT among them – offer products infused with a molecule called Delta-8-THC. It’s often promoted as being slightly less intoxicating than Delta-9, which can be appealing to some consumers. But crucially, Delta-8-THC does NOT occur naturally in either hemp or marijuana plants. It’s typically synthesized in a lab, a process which is subject to ZERO regulatory oversight and which can produce harmful chemical byproducts. This is the case with most other THC molecules you’ll see promoted online as well: Delta-10, “Spice,” and others.

Delta-9-THC, by contrast, is produced organically by the plant. And the Delta-9 you’ll find in Wanderous products has not been synthesized or modified. It’s simply extracted from the plant and infused into your delicious gummies or beverages – no science experiments or nasty byproducts required. It’s much simpler, and much safer, than any other THC molecule you’ll see advertised by otherhemp companies.

Is Delta-9-THC safe?

Like any intoxicating substance, Delta-9-THC should be approached with respect and caution. Never drive or operate heavy machinery when under the influence, and keep these products away from kids and pets. If a child in your care accidentally ingests any form of THC, contact poison control immediately.

That said, responsible consumption of Delta-9-THC is generally considered safe for most adults. Even if you accidentally take too much, you’re extremely unlikely to suffer any lasting impact – an anxious couple of hours, or an unexpected nap, are much more probable outcomes.

The best way to have a safe and pleasant experience with Delta-9-THC is to start low and go slow. If you are not used to THC, begin with a very low dose (2.5-5mg) and wait at least one hour to see how you feel before taking more.

Not all Wanderous products contain THC – Martha Stewart’s gummies, for example, are made only with non-intoxicating CBD. But if you’re ready to explore the benefits of hemp-derived Delta-9-THC for yourself, Wanderous has a line-up of premium lab-tested products waiting to elevate your plant-powered wellness.

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