Delta 9 Vs. Delta 10 | What's the Difference Between D9 and D10? (2024)

There are so many different cannabinoids within the cannabis plant. When you begin researching, it can seem overwhelming. There are two major things to understand about the cannabis plant before you dive deeper. Cannabis refers to the plant itself. There are two subcategories: hemp and marijuana. Marijuana is federally illegal and has higher levels of Delta 9 THC, which is the main psychoactive cannabinoid. Hemp has lower concentrations of Delta 9 THC, less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC by dry weight volume to be exact. This is federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. Products that are hemp derived and contain less than 0.3% Delta 9 are legal to sell on the federal level.

Now that we know some of the basics, it’s time to take a closer look at each: Delta 9 THC and Delta 10 THC.

What is Delta 9 THC?

Before comparing the two cannabinoids to one another, let’s first establish what Delta 9 is. Delta 9 THC is a cannabinoid known for creating a full body relaxation in consumers. Also known as simply THC or D9, Delta 9 has been growing in popularity as more and more states legalize it for both medical and recreational use. While products derived from marijuana are illegal, products derived from hemp, including Delta 9, are federally legal. Products must have less than 0.3% Delta 9 in them to be legal.

What is Delta 10 THC?

Delta 10 THC is a minor cannabinoid that’s recently gained popularity thanks to the Farm Bill. Another THC, Delta 10 is also known to create a psychoactive effect in most users, even though there is little research available. Most of what we know about Delta 10 is from anecdotal evidence, what people have told us. Delta 10 has a different potency from Delta 9 and even Delta 8, offering unique, almost energizing experiences to individuals.

Comparing Delta 9 vs. Delta 10 THC

Now that we have some of the basic information about both cannabinoids out of the way, it’s time to take a closer look. What are the similarities and differences between D9 and D10?

Similarities

Because both D9 and Delta 10 are part of the THC family, they do have some of the same traits. First, both have psychoactive properties. Meaning they offer a sense of euphoria to varying degrees depending on the amount an individual or user takes. Next, they are both naturally found in the cannabis hemp and are legal when derived from hemp and contain that crucial less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC by dry weight volume.

Another similarity between these two THCs is their likelihood to show up on a drug test. These tests look for THC in general – they can’t distinguish between the small subtleties of the various THCs now readily available. So if you known you need to take a test soon, make sure to not take any THC products, whether its Delta 9 THC or Delta 10 THC, a few weeks in advance to make sure your test doesn’t show up positive.

Differences

Both D9 and Delta 10 are of the THC family. This means that they have an almost identical chemical structure. However, the differences between THC molecules is the placement of a double bond along the carbon chain. D9 has a double bond on the 9th carbon whereas Delta 10 has a double bond on the 10th carbon. This difference in bonds is what creates a large difference in how the body reacts to each THC.

The other big difference between D9 and D10 is how they interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body. The ECS works to create the perfect nirvana, the perfect balance, within the body. D9, which is primarily psychoactive, interacts with mostly CB1, which connects to the nervous system. This allows D9 to create the euphoric high it’s commonly known for.

With Delta 10, similar to Delta 8 THC, it connects to both CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB2 responds more to anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions. This isn’t psychoactive at all. But since Delta 10 connects to both, it sort of creates the best of both worlds. Delta 10 is known for its less intense effects but also for the energy and focus that comes with the high. This pick-me-up feeling does set Delta 10 THC above the rest when it comes to staying awake and active while feeling the euphoria.

Finally, even though both Delta 9 THC and Delta 10 THC are legal under federal law thanks to the Farm Bill, they aren’t treated equally in each state. Each state has adopted hemp laws that legalize D9 with those limitations. However, some have started to restrict or ban other various cannabinoids because not much is known and they see it as a legal loophole – with both the DEA and Appeals Court have said its not. So, Delta 10 can only be sold in 38 states, not every state.

Which is Best For You?

After learning a little about Delta 9 and Delta 10, plus their similarities and differences, it’s time to find out which is going to be your preferred option. Each time you want to consume any cannabinoid, its best to first decide which kind of experience you are leaning towards. In this instance, are you looking for something more active and focus driven? Then Delta 10 is going to be the better option for you. On the other side, are you looking for a relaxing full body experience? If so, then D9 products are going to be your preferred option.

While there isn’t a large quantity of products here at 3CHI, we make up for it in quality. All of our products, from Delta 9 and Delta 10, to HHC and THCV, are developed by our in-house research and development team. These are followed up with third party testing to verify their content and purity. Currently, our Delta 10 THC is available in our standard ceramic carts which are compatible with most 501 batteries. Delta 9 products are currently available in powerful and potent edibles, ranging from cereal treats and brownies to cookies and gummies. Rave reviews continue to pour in for all of our products, so whatever you decide to choose, we guarantee you won’t find better quality products on the market. 3CHI, for your mind, body, and spirit.