Using a marijuana-derived THC product such as delta-8 can be dangerous. It can also be illegal in some states. Learn about the difference between marijuana-derived and hemp-derived THC.
Hemp-Derived vs. Marijuana-Derived THC
Despite the legalization of cannabinoids, there are some states that are still considering hemp to be illegal. While the hemp industry is growing, a number of states are still limiting the production and sale of products.
Delta-8 THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that is found in hemp plants. Its presence in hemp has been known for 80 years. The legality of delta 8 THC products is still in question.
Delta 8 products are not approved drugs. They are considered to be a food additive. However, most of these products do not contain the amounts of compound advertised. They are also full of unlabeled cutting agents and heavy metal contaminants.
The Farm Bill outlines how delta 9 THC can be used, albeit in limited amounts. Products can be sold if they are less than 0.3% by dry weight. Currently, the limit applies to all forms of THC.
Delta-9 THC is not yet approved by the FDA for food use. However, some states have been able to produce it.
Delta-9 is an isomer of THC. It has been known to have psychotropic effects. Its legality is disputed in Colorado, Rhode Island, and Utah. In Nevada, hemp and delta 9 products are legal if they contain less than 0.3% THC.
The FDA has issued warning letters to companies that sell CBD. It is not clear if the FDA will regulate delta-8 THC companies. In the meantime, some states have banned delta 8 THC.
Similarity To Delta-9 THC
Whether you’re a seasoned marijuana user or just looking for a way to get high, there are many Delta-9 THC alternatives. There are many variations of this substance in marijuana, and many states have different laws regarding its legal use. The two main types of delta-9 THC are hemp-derived and marijuana-derived.
Delta-9 THC, also known as THC, is the most common psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It has several effects, including a “high” that is similar to a “high” from marijuana. It also produces a range of effects, including euphoria and paranoia. Delta-8 THC is a less potent cousin of Delta-9 THC. It also produces a “high” that is similar to Delta-9 THC, but is much less psychoactive.
The global trend in delta-8-THC searches increased by 257.0% from 2019 to 2020. Searches in the US increased by 466.8% in that time period. Delta-8-THC searches increased in 49 US states in that time period.
Delta-8 THC was legalized under the 2018 Farm Bill, and it remains legal under federal law. The Farm Bill allowed states to legalize hemp if the hemp had 0.3 percent THC. Some states banned delta 8 THC, while others have allowed it under specific rules.
Despite its legal status, Delta-8 THC remains illegal in North Dakota. Fortunately, the state has a medical marijuana program, which makes it relatively easy to get a medical marijuana card. However, patients are required to see a physician before applying for the program.
Legality In Other States
Despite the fact that delta-8 is classified as a controlled substance under the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, it is not illegal in Arkansas. Delta-8 is chemically similar to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the substance that is considered illegal under federal law. However, delta-8 is also a form of hemp.
Delta-8 is still a prohibited substance in Alaska. The state’s health department has not explicitly banned its use, but it is likely a violation of the state’s criminal code.
Mississippi has not explicitly prohibited delta-8, but it does not classify it as a controlled substance. Senate Bill 209, introduced by Sen. Mike Young, was intended to ban the sale and possession of delta-8. However, the bill was amended by Sen. Liz Brown.
The new bill also seeks to regulate the sale of delta-8 products under existing marijuana laws. However, a spokesperson for the New York Cannabis Control Board said that delta-8 might be regulated through the state’s recreational marijuana program.
Delta-8 products are still legal in Connecticut. However, only medical patients and licensed dispensaries can buy delta-8 products. The state’s Liquor and Cannabis Board requested a ban on delta-8 products in 2021.
In March 2022, South Dakota lawmakers passed House Bill 1292, which regulates intoxicating hemp products. Delta-8 products are still illegal in Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin.
