Hemp Derived Delta 9 vs THC - What's the difference?

Recap of Last Week

• Cannabis Industry 2024 Trends: We delved into the evolving landscape of the cannabis industry for 2024. Key focus areas included the balancing of Canada's cannabis market, financial challenges in the U.S. cannabis sector, and the potential impact of the 2024 U.S. elections on industry regulations. Additionally, we highlighted the rise in craft cannabis products and the growing demand for innovative products like infused pre-rolls and cannabis beverages.

• State-Specific Market Updates: Our coverage included the latest sales figures from Connecticut and New York. Connecticut's cannabis sales continued their upward trajectory, with over $15.3 million recorded in November 2023. New York's market, despite facing some operational challenges, showed promising growth with sales reaching $110 million by early December 2023.

• Featured Products and Reads: In the 'In My Bar' section, we reviewed popular cannabis products, including Cann Roadies, Hemp Beverage Company's drops, and ENDO Cafe's range of cannabis-infused products. Our bookshelf segment featured "High Times: Let's Get Baked!" for cannabis culinary enthusiasts, "Outlive" by Peter Attia for those interested in health and longevity, and "Higher Etiquette" by Lizzie Post, offering a modern take on cannabis etiquette.

• Winter Citrus Spice Mocktail Recipe: A highlight from our recipe section was the Winter Citrus Spice Mocktail, a festive and sophisticated non-alcoholic drink infused with THC drops. The recipe includes a blend of citrus, spices, non-alcoholic gin, and Hemp Beverage Co.'s THC drops, perfect for a cozy winter evening.

Understanding THC terminology can be perplexing. If you're trying to grasp what hemp-sourced delta-9 means, it's simpler than you might think. Delta-9 is a variant of THC, and when it's derived from hemp, it's essentially THC sourced from hemp rather than traditional cannabis.

Regardless of its origin, all delta-9 compounds function identically. They interact with the same cannabinoid receptors in our system and produce a characteristic high when consumed in adequate amounts.

The primary distinction between hemp-sourced and regular THC lies in the extraction method. Given the federal legality of hemp, many producers opt to extract delta-9 from hemp over marijuana, which remains federally prohibited.

Understanding Hemp-Sourced Delta-9 Delta-9 THC is the leading psychoactive element in Cannabis sativa plants, encompassing both marijuana and hemp. Different marijuana varieties have diverse THC potencies, leading to their renowned psychoactive impacts.

Conversely, hemp has a reduced THC concentration due to federal restrictions. Industrial hemp is limited to a maximum of 0.3% THC by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Whether derived from hemp or marijuana, delta-9 remains consistent.

"Hemp-sourced delta-9" simply denotes THC obtained from hemp plants, making it federally compliant and accessible in almost every U.S. state.

Comparing Hemp-Sourced Delta-9 and Traditional THC On a molecular scale, there's no distinction between hemp-sourced and regular delta-9. This implies that hemp-derived THC can still induce potent effects, contingent on its concentration.

The tangible differences lie in product potency. Regulated cannabis items typically have no THC potency caps, often ranging between 15-25%. Such products include:

• Inhalable cannabis buds

• Edible treats like candies, cookies, and gummies

• Concentrated forms

• Liquid extracts

• Vaporizers

Products with hemp-sourced delta-9 mirror many of these forms and adhere to the 0.3% THC limit based on "dry weight." Due to the lack of clarity on the "dry weight" definition for products like oils, producers can navigate around potency restrictions.

Consequently, hemp-based products can have delta-9 levels akin to standard THC products, and both can induce a high.

Benefits and Applications A significant advantage of hemp-sourced delta-9 is its federal legality in the U.S., ensuring safe consumption without legal repercussions.

From a wellness standpoint, hemp THC offers potential advantages such as alleviating stress, pain, inflammation, and more. It mirrors the therapeutic benefits of standard THC, including mood enhancement, relaxation, appetite stimulation, and improved sleep.

Potential Hazards and Adverse Reactions While generally safe with moderate consumption, excessive or potent hemp-derived products can lead to:

• Increased anxiety

• Over-sedation

• Disorientation

• Dryness in the mouth

• Discomfort or dissatisfaction

• Reduced blood pressure

Most side effects are mild and typically result from excessive dosing. There are also concerns about the lax regulations for hemp-derived delta-9 production under the Farm Bill.

Dosage and Strength Hemp THC dosages often match those of standard THC products available in authorized dispensaries. However, assuming all hemp products have minimal THC can lead to accidental overconsumption.

Testing and Assurance While regulated cannabis items undergo stringent testing, the Farm Bill doesn't mandate similar tests for hemp-derived products. Hence, consumers might be exposed to subpar or misbranded items. It's crucial to opt for brands that provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to verify product quality and THC levels.

Hemp-sourced delta-9 THC is chemically identical to its marijuana-derived counterpart but is extracted from hemp. Its federal legality is a boon, but it's vital to ensure the products you purchase come with a COA for safety.

In My Bar

1. Cann: As always, Cann makes its way into the selection, especially their Roadies product. Ideal for a week with friends around, these portable and discreet beverages were a hit while we were out and about. Cann Roadies offer a convenient and enjoyable way to experience cannabis in a social setting. Enjoy 20% off with promo code HERBAL30

2. Hemp Beverage Company's: For those moments requiring a bit more customization in dosing, the Hemp Beverage Company's flavorless drops were a game-changer. Adding these to various drinks throughout the evenings allowed for precise control over cannabis intake, enhancing the night-out experience without overpowering the original flavors of the drinks. Enjoy 15% off with promo code LARSM15

3. North Canna Co.: Introducing North Canna Co., known for their innovative cannabis-infused products. Their range offers a unique twist to traditional cannabis consumption, perfect for those seeking a distinct and refined experience. Explore their offerings for a fresh take on cannabis enjoyment. Use the link here for 15% off site wide

On My Bookshelf: This Week's Reads

This week, my bookshelf features a blend of continuing favorites and a new addition, offering a variety of perspectives and insights:

1. "High Times: Let's Get Baked! The Official Cannabis Cookbook": Continuing from last week, this cookbook remains a staple. It's an accessible guide filled with over 60 cannabis-infused recipes, perfect for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts in cannabis baking. The book simplifies the process of infusing your culinary creations with cannabis, making it a great resource for anyone looking to combine their love for cooking and cannabis.

2. "Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity" by Peter Attia: Also from last week, Peter Attia's book provides a comprehensive dive into living a longer, healthier life. Attia combines research with practical advice, making it an essential read for those interested in health, wellness, and longevity. His insights offer valuable knowledge for enhancing your daily health routine.

3. "Higher Etiquette: A Guide to the World of Cannabis, from Dispensaries to Dinner Parties" by Lizzie Post: A new addition to this week's reading list, this book by Lizzie Post explores the social aspects of cannabis. As the great-great-granddaughter of etiquette guru Emily Post, Lizzie offers a modern take on the dos and don'ts in the increasingly mainstream world of cannabis. From navigating dispensaries to hosting cannabis-infused dinner parties, this guide is a must-read for anyone looking to integrate cannabis into their social life with grace and etiquette.

Recipe of the Week

Lavender Lemon Bliss Mocktail

Ingredients:

• Cann Roadies Lavender and Lemon (1 packet)

• Sparkling water

• Fresh lemon juice

• Lavender syrup

• Ice cubes

• Lemon slice and lavender sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.

2. Add a reasonable amount of Cann Roadies Lavender and Lemon Liquid Additive.

3. Pour in fresh lemon juice to taste.

4. Add a splash of lavender syrup for sweetness.

5. Top up with sparkling water.

6. Stir gently to combine.

7. Garnish with a lemon slice and a sprig of lavender.

Enjoy this refreshing and aromatic mocktail, perfect for a relaxing evening or a social gathering!