Delta 8, Delta 9, HHC & THC-O: Legality of Your Favorite Cannabinoid

As innovative technology graces its presence within the hemp industry, the emergence of new cannabinoids is at an all time high. If you’re a regular consumer of hemp-based products, you may find yourself wondering about the legality of psychoactive cannabinoids such as Delta 8 THC, Delta 9 THC, HHC, and THC-O.

Whether you’re smoking a new vape or enjoying your favorite edible, questions such as “Is this product legal in my state?” or “Can I travel with this?” may arise. While it’s recommended to always check your individual state’s laws, we want to shed some light on your concerns.

At The Hemp Doctor, we strive to create and provide the most innovative hemp-infused products on the market that ship anywhere in the United States, so it’s important that we keep you informed. 

It is crucial to be mindful that the federal Food and Drug Administration has the ability to approve or deny any CBD or marijuana-based products and determines how these products will be purchased and used.

With the 2018 Farm Bill allowing hemp and its derivatives with no more than 0.3% THC to be federally legal (although this may be subject to change soon due to The Hemp Advancement Act), there is still some gray area regarding the legality of these compounds in certain states, especially towards potent cannabinoids such as Delta 9. Let’s take a look at the legal status of these four cannabinoids in a state-by-state comparison. 

 

Where is Delta 8 THC Legal? 

Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, or Delta 8 THC is a popular cannabinoid that is an isomer of THC. It is a naturally occurring analogue of THC within the hemp plant. Even though Delta 8 is a psychoactive compound, it is much less potent in its effects of a “high”, compared to Delta 9 THC. Delta-8 products are known to be a better option for users that are looking for a cannabinoid with milder euphoric effects. 

 

Currently, Delta 8 is legal on a federal level in the following states:

 

Alabama, Connecticut, Michigan, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri , Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. 

 

The following states have imposed a ban on Delta 8, most likely because of the origin of the cannabinoid: 

• Alaska
• Delaware
• Idaho
• Iowa
• Montana
• Nevada (Delta 8 is only allowed to be purchased from a licensed dispensary)
• New York
• North Dakota
• Rhode Island
• Utah
• Vermont
• Washington 

There are also a few states where the legality of Delta 8 THC is still unclear, which is why it is always key to stay up to date with your state’s laws regarding cannabis and its compounds: 

• Arizona 
• Arkansas 
• California 
• Colorado.
• Kentucky 
• Mississippi 
• Louisiana 

Where is Delta 9 Legal? 

Delta 9 THC is likely favored among regular cannabis users since it is the primary reason for marijuana’s psychoactive properties. Delta 9 is able to create more of a euphoric feeling since it holds more potency than other cannabinoids, such as Delta 8.

When determining the legality of this compound, things can get a little tricky. The power of the Farm Bill passed in December of 2018 changed the game for hemp-derived substances.

According to federal law, a hemp-based product is allowed up to 0.3% of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis. This means that products infused with Delta 9 are only allowed as long as the cannabinoid is derived from industrial hemp plants and not marijuana plants (a cannabis plant that contains more than 0.3% THC). 

Although the Farm Bill created quite a loophole for the hemp industry, it is also important to consider the Controlled Substances Act, and the Federal Analogue Act when determining the legal status for a potent, psychoactive cannabinoid such as Delta 9. These acts were instituted to place control on chemical substances that have attributes like this cannabinoid.

With this in mind, you may legally buy hemp-derived Delta 9 products in the following states: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Washington D.C. 

The only state to place specific regulations on Delta 9 THC is California, which requires companies that produce hemp products to ensure that they do not surpass the limit of 0.3% THC in their products. 

The following states have placed a ban on Delta 9 THC, due to a restriction on the conversion of CBD into THC isomers: 

• Colorado
• North Dakota
• Washington
• Idaho (Delta 9 is illegal in this state altogether due to the Controlled Substances Act)

Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and Vermont are states where the legality of this compound is still unclear, creating a gray area for the use of Delta 9 products in these areas. 

Where is HHC Legal? 

HHC, otherwise known as hexahydrocannabinol, is one of the newest cannabinoids to hit the cannabis scene. HHC was discovered by Chemist Roger Adams, who was the first to synthesize this cannabinoid in his lab. HHC differs from THC due to the added Hydrogen molecule within the compound. This cannabinoid produces similar psychoactive side effects to Delta 9 THC, but does not hold as much potency as Delta 9 or THC-O. 

Since this synthetic cannabinoid is still a newbie to the hemp and cannabis industry, it can be a little confusing to diagnose the exact legal status of it. Fear not, as we’re here to clear up some of the confusion. 

 

HHC is currently legal in the following states: Alabama, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

The following states have imposed a ban on HHC: 

• Alaska 
• Arizona 
• Arkansas 
• Colorado 
• Delaware 
• Idaho 
• Iowa 
• Mississippi 
• Montana 
• New York 
• Oregon 
• Rhode Island 
• Utah 
• Vermont 

Is THC-O Legal? 

Similar to HHC, THC-O is another cannabinoid that was newly introduced to the cannabis world as of recently. Also known by its scientific name, tetrahydrocannabinol acetate, THC-O acetate is essentially synthetic since it’s lab-made and an artificial analogue of THC. Some users may even argue that side effects from THC-O are even stronger than Delta 9 itself. In order for hemp-derived products infused with this compound to be considered federally legal, it must  contain no more than 0.3% THC.

With this in mind, the legality of THC-O has potentially been affected, due to a recent letter from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Attorney Rod Kight, who is in charge of the operations for the website cannabusiness.law, sent an email on August 17, 2022 to the DEA for clarification on the exact legal status of THC-O. 

When Kight did not receive a response to this email for many months, he followed up with the DEA on February 7, 2023 asking for clarification once again. Within a week, the DEA responded to Kight’s letter and stated that even though THC-O is synthesized from hemp-derived Delta 9 THC, they do not consider it a form of hemp. 

According to a Forbes article discussing the potential change in legality of THC-O, however, certain states may still take part in putting the cannabinoid in their products in order to coincide with the development of their hemp-based economies. 

As for now, the exact legal status of THC-O is uncertain and subject to change at any time, as new laws are constantly developing. Once again, we can’t stress enough on the importance of staying up to date with your state laws, as the legal status of these cannabinoids is ever-evolving. 

Traveling With Your Favorite Cannabinoid 

Now that you have some knowledge on the legality of these cannabinoids, you may find yourself thinking twice about packing that vape or new gummies with you when taking a vacation. 

When traveling by airplane, you should consider federal and state laws, TSA, as well as airline regulations. We recommend checking with the individual airline you are flying with.  

• Vapes: It is a TSA requirement for vapes and cartridges to be packed in a carry-on bag, and not checked in. 
• Gummies/Edibles: Edibles may be permissible in both your carry-on and checked bags. 
• Tinctures/Topicals: These items should be stored in your carry-on luggage, but cannot contain more than 3.4 ounces (100 ml) of liquid product as according to TSA requirements. 

Remember that products cannot contain more than 0.3% of Delta 9 THC when traveling by airplane. It may also be helpful to bring documentation with you to prove that your products are hemp-derived and do not exceed more than 0.3% THC.  

While it is important to always do your research and err on the side of caution, we have some tips that can be useful for your travels and ease your concerns: 

1. Make sure to always check the laws and regulations regarding hemp-derived products in the state you are traveling to.
2. Purchase high-quality products from a reputable distributor (such as The Hemp Doctor!) 
3. Check to see if your specific product meets the state and federal guidelines of your desired destination. 
4. It’s recommended not to carry products in bulk – take only what you need with you. 
5. Be mindful that products containing hemp-derived cannabinoids will show up positive on a drug test. 

To Conclude

At The Hemp Doctor, we do our best to keep our customers informed about the evolving hemp industry. It is essential to stay updated on the legality of these cannabinoids to ensure that using your favorite hemp product complies with your state’s laws. It is also key to be mindful of  ever-changing laws surrounding hemp and cannabis. As always, if you have any further questions or comments about these hemp cannabinoids, visit The Hemp Doctor Blog or contact our Customer Service and we’ll be happy to assist you!

Are you searching for your favorite hemp product but don’t know where to start? The hemp market is highly complicated, especially for someone just getting started and trying new things.

THCP, THC-O, THC, these names can make your head spin trying to decide which is best for you. But you don’t have to worry anymore, in this article we will cover all the differences between the three and discuss their effects so it will be easier for you to decide. Without further ado, let’s get you started on your cannabis journey.

 

 

What is THC?

THC, short for Tetrahydrocannabinol, is undoubtedly one of the most famous chemicals in the cannabis world. The abundance of THC is why marijuana offers psychotropic experiences. THC has become synonymous with marijuana, but different types of it also exist in hemp. THC in marijuana is Delta 9 THC, also present in hemp, but in much lower doses. Based on the dosage, THC can cause the intoxicating feeling we like to call ‘high.’

THC offers these effects by interacting with the ECS, short for the endocannabinoid system. The ECS is an essential cell-signaling system in our bodies. It is in charge of many bodily functions such as mood, appetite, hunger, pain, etc.

THC stimulates neurons that impact pleasure, memory, reasoning, coordination, and time perception by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the brain. THC may be detectable in the body for far longer than most other drugs, despite the high effects lasting just a few hours.

THC effects

THC boosts the production of a neurotransmitter called dopamine in the brain, which generates feelings of bliss. However, the effects on the body will differ from person to person.

There are many types of high, and consumers react to THC differently based on numerous factors such as the amount and the consumption method.

THC is most commonly consumed through smoking different cannabis strains. The cannabis flower combines various cannabinoids such as CBN and CBG, the famous CBD, terpenes, and flavonoids. The ratio of these compounds will significantly affect THC’s effects. For example, CBD can tame THC’s effects, so the higher the CBD amount in the strain, the less intense THC’s effects will be.

Delta 9 THC gummies are also becoming popular on the market. They feature a specific THC amount and can include other cannabinoids as well. However, edible Delta 9 THC can take longer to kick in, so you’ll have to be patient.

 

 

What is THCP?

THCP is short for Tetrahydrocannabiphorol and was first isolated in 2019. This cannabinoid occurs naturally in specific cannabis strains. THCP is much more potent than THC and can cause almost psychedelic effects, although it does not cause hallucinations. The sole difference between THCP and THC is their chemical structures. According to studies, THCP binds to the endocannabinoid receptor CB1 at around 33 times the potency of delta-9 THC.

THCP effects

Many THCP users regard the effects as being more prominent than THC. Because it is more potent, a lesser amount is required to have the same overall effects as THC. Some individuals who have tried THCP say its results are practically identical to THC’s. So, the main difference when consuming these two is about dosage. A much lower dosage of THCP is needed to get similar effects of consuming THC.

What is THCO-?

THC-O is short for tetra cannabinoid-O-acetate. THC-O is a type of ester of THC. THC has been molecularly altered by acetic anhydride and sulfuric acid to become THC-O. Its potency is its most significant advantage when compared to other cannabinoids. Because THC-O is an analog of delta 9, the two chemicals have many of the same benefits, but THC-O delivers them about three times stronger than delta 9. THC-O is a pro-drug, which means that it will be activated only after the body has broken it down; therefore, the results will be delayed.

THC-O effects

THC-O at high levels might cause hallucinations, resulting in a heightened emotional state and a profound spiritual experience. Therefore, it is not recommended for beginner use.

THCP vs. THC-O

Because THCP has a longer chain of molecules, it is more potent and affects the mind more than THC-O. There are five connections on THC-O and seven on THCP. The drug’s interaction with your body’s receptors, notably those for cannabinoids, is impacted by this added length.

THC-O and THCP are two chemicals found in marijuana plants. For THC-O to work, the chemical must be broken down throughout a bodily process to activate entirely. As opposed to this, THCP begins to work as soon as it enters the body and does not require any additional processes. THC-O has a milder impact than THCP due to the slower onset of action and shorter chain of molecules.

THCP is more potent than THC-O; its potency is approximately 200% more than that of THC-O. THC-O, on the other hand, is three times stronger than THC. With that in mind, you should have a better idea of how much more potent THCP can be compared to THC.

One thing that the two have in common is that both are much stronger and more potent than THC and not suitable for people who are new to the cannabis world and don’t have much experience. The combined euphoria of these psychoactive cannabinoids may be highly intense and overpowering when used simultaneously. Anxiety, panic attacks, and other unpleasant sensations are all possible side effects.

 

 

The legalities

The legal status of THC-O and THCP is a gray area. The Controlled Substances Act does not make certain cannabinoids illegal in the United States, but it exclusively addresses delta-9 THC. On the other hand, THC analogs are subject to the Federal Analog Act’s requirements.

The 2018 Farm Bill created an unexpected legal loophole by allowing hemp-derived cannabinoids, including THC analogs. This is because the statute states that all hemp-derived goods must have less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.

THC-O, THCP, HHC, and delta-8 THC are legal at the federal level. However, some states have banned such goods or imposed 0.3% limitations on all THC variations.

Final thoughts

THC is the most researched among the three cannabinoids. THCP and THC-O are relatively new on the hemp market, and we don’t have much information regarding their effects and benefits. To put it simply, THCP is the most potent one on the list, then comes the THC-O, and the last place goes to THC. THCP and THC have similar effects, except that THCP can be way more intense. Unlike the other two, THC-O does not occur naturally and can cause psychedelic hallucinations in higher doses. If you’re someone who is just starting their cannabis journey, we would recommend you stay away from THCP and THC-O for the time being and maybe first try less potent THC to see how your body reacts to it first.

Whatever your hemp product choice is, we have got what you need. Shop at the Hemp Doctor for the most innovative cannabinoids and cannabis products the industry can offer, including delicious edibles, fruity gummies and vape carts!

Cannabis products come in many forms, including edibles, offering a convenient and trendy way to consume popular cannabinoids such as delta 9, HHC, delta 8, and CBD.

Edibles come in various forms, such as gummies, chocolates, hard candies, cookies, brownies, and even hot chocolate. They are a fantastic alternative for people who want to avoid smoke and combustion or dislike the flavor of conventional cannabis oil or tinctures. Edibles offer a quick and discreet approach to introducing cannabinoids into your daily routine.

Since the effects might last longer than other methods of ingestion, including vaping or smoking, edibles can be suitable for people seeking a more regulated way to take their chosen cannabinoids.

Another advantage of edibles is that they come pre-dosed, so you don’t have to figure out the dosage yourself.

However, it is crucial to remember that it can take up to two hours for the effects of cannabis edibles to kick in, so start with a small dose and wait for the results to show before consuming more. Before making a purchase, thoroughly check the label and ingredient list because not all edibles are gluten-free, especially baked goods or gummies that use flour or additional ingredients.

 

 

What edibles are gluten-free?

As more and more people are becoming aware of the adverse effects that gluten can have on their health and discovering their sensitivity to it, many are looking for gluten-free options regarding their food choices. This includes edibles infused with CBD, THC, and different cannabinoids. This article will explore what gluten-free edibles are available and the benefits of choosing gluten-free options for CBD and THC-infused products.

Understanding Gluten

Understanding gluten is essential for anyone wanting more information on their dietary decisions, especially those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Gluten is a protein in grains such as wheat, rye, and barley.

Glutenin and gliadin are the two primary building blocks. Gluten gives dough its elastic texture and is frequently utilized as a binding agent in processed food. Consuming whole grains is generally associated with better health outcomes, but it can negatively affect individuals suffering from certain conditions.

Consuming gluten can harm the small intestine in people with celiac disease, an autoimmune condition, and result in symptoms including diarrhea, bloating, and stomach discomfort. One in 133 Americans, or roughly 1% of the population, is thought to have celiac disease, yet 83% of those people are either undiagnosed or receive incorrect diagnoses.

Celiac disease isn’t the only condition where consuming gluten is a problem, some individuals can also suffer from gluten sensitivity without having celiac disease. Consuming gluten can lead to brain fog, fatigue, and headaches for such people.

With these adverse effects in mind, it is understandable why some people go for gluten-free options. Starting the cannabis journey for such people can be a little different, raising the question: Is cannabis naturally gluten-free? Or, how do you know which products don’t contain gluten?

Is Cannabis naturally gluten-free?

Cannabis and hemp are naturally gluten-free crops, but the hemp plant is usually grown in rotation with other plants that may contain gluten. Farmers often harvest, store, and transport different crops using the same machinery—the likelihood of cross-contamination increases in this case.

If you’re seeking hemp products and want to avoid gluten consumption, you should look for gluten-free products that state so on the label. Since the demand for gluten-free products is relatively high, more and more, hemp manufacturers are offering different gluten-free options.

 

 

Gluten-free edibles

If your preferred way to consume cannabis is via edibles and you are searching for a gluten-free option, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of our gluten-free edibles, so you won’t have to go through the trouble of looking for them anymore. The Hemp Doctor offers a variety of delicious edibles that come in different doses and flavors, including gummies, chocolate bars, peanut butter nuggets, nerd ropes, and more. You will surely find something to suit your needs with all these options, especially within our Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC product lines.

• 25mg Delta 9 gummies (2ct 50mg/10ct 250mg/30ct 750mg)

Go up and high with The Hemp Doctor’s Delta 9 THC gummies bursting with flavor.

• Daytime Gummies

Need something to help you kick-start your day? These daytime gummies each contain 12.5mg Delta-9 and 15mg CBD. It will provide the help you need to stay productive and focused.

• Nighttime gummies

Want something to help you sleep better? Nighttime gummies are your best choice. Each contains 12.5mg Delta-9, 15mg CBD, and 5mg CBN.

• Downshift gummies

Downshift gummies are here to help you when you need it the most. Each bottle has 20 gummies containing 7.5 Delta-9 THC, 1mg of CBD, 1mg of CBG, and 1mg of CBN.

• 900mg CBD gummies

Are you looking for vegan options? Full spectrum CBD vegan gummies in three different flavors will not disappoint you. And will ensure you have a gummy supply for quite a long since there are 30 pieces in each bottle. Each piece contains 30mg of full-spectrum CBD.

• D8 Taffy

Travel in time with nostalgic flavors with Delta 8 Taffy will bring back all childhood memories. This soft, chewy snack is delicious and comes in a variety of flavors.

• D8 D-Bombs

If you like Skittles, this one is definitely for you. Each Delta 8 D-Bomb candy contains 5mg of Delta 8, making it easier to control your dosage and enjoy your favorite candy taste.

• HHC Gummies (2pk, 30pc, & 60pc)

Want to try HHC-infused edibles? No problem, we’ve got you delightful HHC gummies.

• D9/CBD Caramels

Delta-9 caramels are a fantastic treat if you enjoy sweets, and you can even take it with much-needed coffee to start the day right. Caramels are produced in small amounts using only the finest ingredients to ensure excellent quality.

• D9/CBD Chocolate Bars/Chocolate Minis

Who doesn’t love a delicious chocolate treat? Our chocolate minis contain 15mg Delta-9 THC and 15mg CBD per piece.

• D9/CBD Peanut Butter Nuggets

If your favorite sweet treat is a Reese’s Cup, you’ll like our chocolate-covered Peanut Butter Nuggets. Each bag has 25 pieces of nuggets containing a total of 15mg Delta THC and 15mg Delta 8 THC.

• MEDible Line

If you’re looking for something very potent, then our Delta-8 THC Medibles are a perfect fit. They come in six delicious flavors, and each piece contains 30mg of Delta 8 THC.

• All D8 Gummies

All D8 THC Gummies offered in various flavors and potencies don’t have gluten, so you can enjoy them without worrying about unwanted effects.

• Nerd Ropes

Big fan of nerd ropes candy? How about trying it with added benefits? Our Delta-9 THC Nerd ropes come in different flavors and are guaranteed to satisfy all your cravings.

 

 

Final thoughts

When avoiding gluten in cannabis edibles, remember to ensure that a product does not include wheat, barley, or rye. Consumers seeking gluten-free cannabis edibles should carefully review the ingredient list. Many cannabis edibles producers now meet this need by providing gluten-free products, such as gluten-free candies, chocolates, and baked goods. Be sure to learn more information and shop CBD on our homepage!

Did you know that there are different types of ‘high’? Yes, not all experiences of getting high will feel the same. The cannabis plant comes in various forms or strains, each of which has a unique effect on the body and mind. The particular mix of chemical elements in each strain, including the primary psychoactive ingredient THC and the non-psychoactive ingredient CBD, determine these effects.

There are three main types of strains, Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid. Each of which has a different effect. Therefore, making educated judgments regarding cannabis usage requires understanding the expected outcomes of each cannabis strain. This article will discuss different types of high so that you can make the right choice.

 

 

Sativa Strains

Sativa strains need hot, dry climates to strive. They usually grow in Central America, Southeast and West Asia, and Africa. The name Sativa is a derivative of the Latin word ‘sativum.’

Cannabis strains differ based on appearance too. Sativa strains usually have thin, finger-like leaves, are tall and lean, and tend to have a sweet and fruity aroma.

Head High

Sativa strains typically contain high doses of THC and low doses of CBD. Because of this THC versus CBD ratio, Sativa strains provide an uplifting, stimulating influence on the body and mind. They are reported to produce a “head high” effect that promotes creativity, attention, and sociability.

Excited

Have you heard about your weed friend’s big dreams after smoking? Suddenly they are eager to achieve them and show a great enthusiasm you may have never seen before. The world is your oyster when you experience the ‘excited high’ most achievable through Sativa strains.

Because of their stimulating impact, Sativa strains are best suited for daytime use to help keep you focused, motivated, and energized throughout the day. They’re also great pre-workout supplements. You don’t need to be concerned about experiencing startling or unpleasant couchlock effects from this strain.

 

 

Indica Strains

Opposite to Sativa strains, Indica strains grow in cold northern climates.

Appearance-wise, they’re very different from Sativa strains. Indica plants are short and dense, with large thick leaves. They generate more buds per plant, grow more quickly than Sativa, and have an earthy and musty aroma. Indicas generally have a higher concentration of CBD; however, this does not mean that the THC concentration is low.

Body High

Indica strains are recognized for their calming and sedating effects on the body and mind. Consumers report that Indica strains produce a “body high” effect helping to ease tension and relax the muscles. Because of these relaxing effects, Indica strains are great for nighttime, and they can help you unwind after a stressful day and get a good night’s sleep.

Euphoric

Feeling excited and happy while being relaxed from head to toe is another high that consumers usually achieve from Indica strains; nevertheless, it’s possible from Sativa strains too. Because this type of high is a middle ground between feeling relaxed and excited, a euphoric state is sometimes easily achieved through hybrid strains with an almost equal Indica versus Sativa ratio.

Sleepy

People’s bodies react to cannabis very differently. While you could be sharing a bowl with a friend, one might feel euphoric, and others may fall asleep on the couch. Due to its sedative effects, Indica strains tend to produce a ‘sleepy high’ in some consumers.

Hybrid Strains

As the name suggests, hybrid strains combine both Sativa and Indica. Hybrids are produced on farms or greenhouses by crossing Sativa and Indica strains. Both appearance and effects of a Hybrid strain depend on the Sativa to Indica ratio.

Although many hybrid cannabis plants are designed to boost the THC content, each variety has a different ratio of these two cannabinoids. A hybrid strain can be a product of any two strains. Medical cannabis breeders can also combine Indicas with other Indicas or use two Sativas as parents. However, Indica/Sativa combinations are more typical and frequently praised for their “alert mellowness” and productivity.

A little bit of both worlds

As mentioned, they are produced by crossing several strains to achieve the desired fusion of effects. The calming benefits of Indica strains and the stimulating qualities of Sativa strains are frequently balanced through breeding. It is crucial to research the particular strains utilized in it to speculate a hybrid’s possible impacts. Indica-dominant, Sativa-dominant, or balanced hybrids are the most common categories.

 

 

Identifying different strains

Different cannabis strains may be distinguished using a variety of techniques. Examining a plant’s physical qualities, such as size, shape, and color, is one of the most frequently used techniques. As various strains might have distinctive scents and tastes, another method is to consider the plant’s fragrance and flavor. Additionally, laboratory analysis may determine a strain’s precise chemical composition, including its THC and CBD concentrations.

Making educated judgments regarding cannabis usage requires knowledge of the many cannabis strains and their effects. For example, suppose you desire a calming and relaxing experience from using cannabis and choose the Sativa strain. In that case, you most likely won’t get what you’re looking for. The same goes for using Indica for energizing and motivating effects. That’s why it is essential to understand what type of ‘high’ each strain produces. Being aware of the many available strains and their intended uses also helps reduce the risk of adverse effects that can also occur from cannabis usage.

How to choose the right strain for you?

There are a couple of things you must consider when choosing the right cannabis for you.

Knowing what you want to accomplish with each ‘high’ is important. You can reduce your alternatives by considering what you’re attempting to experience or treat.

Recognize your tolerance. Start with strains that are regarded as “entry level.” For a first-timer, strains with greater THC concentrations can be too potent.

Select your preferred intake method. Each cannabis consumption method has advantages and disadvantages. It is good to try different approaches to see what works best for you.

Think about your medical background. Despite being a natural substance, cannabis has powerful effects. It is crucial to assess potential interactions with current medical conditions and drugs before experimenting with cannabis.

Final Thoughts

The article reviewed the highs correlated to various cannabis strains, including Indica, Sativa, and hybrid strains. It detailed each strain’s impact on the body and mind. Additionally, it covered the need to comprehend the various strains and their effects to make an informed decision about using cannabis. Understanding different strains can ensure that the appropriate strain is chosen to suit your specific needs.

At the Hemp Doctor shop the most innovative hemp products today and find the best strain for your desired results. We recommend you check out our Delta 9 THC and Delta 8 THC products given their potency and popularity with our customers!

How is delta 8 THC made? Is it made by a bunch of lab-coated serious-looking chemists in a white-walled pristine lab? Probably but if you thought delta 8 is too complicated to conjure, think again. It’s actually less complex but that doesn’t mean the process should go unsupervised.

Let’s go look at the basic process of how is delta 8 separated  from cannabis and the process of how to make delta-8 THC out of CBD (cannabidiol).  But before anything else, let’s take a look at the nature of delta 8.

 

What is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC or delta 8 is the short term of delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol. Often misconstrued as synthetic, delta 8 is actually a naturally occurring cannabinoid present in the cannabis plant.

As an analog of cannabis’s main psychoactive compound – delta 9 THC, delta 8 has a similar molecular structure to that of delta 9 with a subtle difference when it comes to their atomic bond arrangements. This tiny difference makes a huge contrast when it comes to their respective effects.

According to those who have first-hand experience with delta 8-derived products, the compound has a slightly less potent effect compared to delta 9. Even in high doses, delta 8 doesn’t seem to have overwhelming cognitive effects. For this reason, consumers who are highly sensitive to delta 9, turn to delta 8 for a quick fix.

 

How is Delta 8 Made?

It’s important to note that no matter how novel the extraction of delta 8 straight from the cannabis plant is, it’s impractical to do so. Why? A cannabis plant would typically only contain 0.1% delta-8-THC. Some strains would even hold less.

It’s scientifically impossible to get a reasonable amount of pure delta 8 distillate from cannabis without converting CBD into delta 8. Even if you’re willing to spend ridiculous tonnes of cannabis plants, you might get one vial of potentially uber expensive delta 8. Having said that, let’s look into the process of converting CBD into delta 8.

 

 

Step 1: Extract CBD

Because our goal is to convert CBD into delta 8, let’s extract CBD first from cannabis’s plant parts. There are multiple types of CBD extraction but one of the most used is the supercritical carbon dioxide or CO2 extraction. CO2 extraction involves separating liquid from gas. The final product is typically in oil form.

The extract should go through a purification process yielding a solution of 98% CBD. The purification process involves an extensive filtration process that removes compounds other than CBD.

 

Step 2: Add the solvent and acid to the purified CBD extract solution

Now that you have a 98% CBD extract solution, it’s time to add a non-polar solvent called heptane to the mixture. Delta 8 doesn’t go well with ethanol-based extractions. Non-polar organic solvents like heptane is your best bet.

Once dissolved, an acid reagent (such as hydrochloric acid, p-toluene sulfonic acid, or alumina acid-washed) is added to trigger the chemical reaction that will lead to cannabinoid conversion.

Stir the solution continually for the next three hours using a stirring plate. Some solutions are either kept at room temperature or have to be heated while stirring but the standard temperature to maintain is 100 degrees Celsius.

 

Step 3: Neutralize the solution

We don’t want the extra solvents and acids in our solution so we’re removing that in this process. Manufacturers clean the solution using distilled water and sodium bicarbonate. Sometimes, they use a rotary evaporator to wash the solution.

 

Step 4: Testing

Once the cannabinoid conversion proves to be a success, it’s now time to test the quality and purity of the solution. High-performance liquid chromatography or HPLC checks for existing compounds present in the solution. HPLC lets you know whether your solution is contaminated or has healthy levels of unwanted chemicals.

 

 

Can You Convert CBD Into Delta 8 In a DIY Manner?

There is a sliver of chance of successfully replicating the conversion process at home. The internet has made it possible for even the rarest of information available to the public. Additionally, home-chemistry kit sets, solvents, and acids are easily bought.

Unfortunately, there are downsides to DIY labs. For one, if you’re not educated in the field, you won’t have the expertise and supplemental knowledge to execute chemist-based activities. Even the most sophisticated labs do a poor job of cleaning their solution of solvents, acids, and by-products.

The process involves aggressive acids and strong bases to neutralize solutions. You have to put proper reaction safety controls in place to offset the highly exothermic reaction of converting CBD to delta 8.

The conversion process can be done but it doesn’t mean it’s for everyone. It’s best to leave the chemical tinkering to experts.

 

The Wrap

The cannabinoid industry is still a wild wild west. Unless Congress fills all the legal loopholes, expect a cacophony of ununiformed manufacturing processes and testing techniques all over the industry. As you would logically conclude, lack of regulation also means an influx of poorly-made delta 8 products.

What can you do to ensure you’re purchasing a clean product then? Checking a product’s Certificate of Analysis or COA is key. COAs are reports accomplished by third-party testing labs which show what compounds exist in a brand’s product. If the product is contaminated, COAs would show you that.

Check a company’s COA on its website. Sometimes, you’ll find a scannable QR code in a product’s packaging that will show you a product batch’s unique COA report.

Always buy from reputable brands like The Hemp Doctor. The array of cannabinoid products we offer doesn’t just dance between safer bets like CBD or delta 9 THC. We brave unconventional products like delta 9o and delta 8 but with utmost care.

Intrigued? Check what’s in store on our delta 8 category page. See a cabinet of delta 8 products and who knows, you might just discover a new favorite.
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Disclaimer: The step-by-step process of CBD to delta 8 conversion relayed on this blog is a basic representation of the process. This material isn’t meant to be used as an official and complete reference of the CBD to delta 8 conversion process