Hemp Derived Cannabinoid Dictionary 101
While the mystical cannabis plant is as ancient as time itself, the science of cannabis is just in its infancy. Most of us are familiar with what has long been known as the main psycho-active compound in cannabis, THC. The cannabis plant also has dozens of other compounds besides THC and each of those compounds offer magical properties of their own. The benefits of various cannabis compounds are currently being explored in scientific research.
These chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant (including hemp) are called cannabinoids. We can extract individual cannabinoids from hemp and use them to support our bodies health and well-being and to take part in some good old fashion recreational fun.
Here’s a list of our favorite hemp derived chemical compounds aka cannabinoids and what we currently know about them:
Delta-9 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol):
When most people think of typical THC, they’re thinking of Delta-9 THC. Delta-9 THC is the main psych-active ingredient in cannabis. When introduced into the body, it elicits euphoric feelings, heightens sensory perception, alters perception of time, boosts appetite, and may cause slight paranoia.
Delta-9 THC is much less prevalent in hemp than it is in marijuana. However, if you consume enough hemp at once then the Delta-9 THC will add up to a psychotropic amount. Our full-spectrum edibles pack a hefty dose of Delta-9 THC.
Delta-8 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol):
Delta-8 THC is a hemp derived cannabinoid that is about half as psycho-active as Delta-9 THC. It’s federally legal because it’s derived from hemp. While it creates a gentler high than Delta-9 THC, don’t underestimate this hemp derived compound; potency really just depends on dosing. Consuming 10mg of Delta-8 THC is comparable to consuming 5mg of Delta-9 THC.
Many consumers actually prefer the Delta-8 buzz, because it elicits a very “clean-high” without the cloudy effects nor anxiety associated with Delta-9 THC. Delta-8 THC actually has similar health benefits to CBD, including anti-nausea and anti-anxiety properties.
Delta-10 THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol):
Delta-10 THC has a psychotropic level on par with Delta-8 THC but it elicits much more of a euphoria and an energy boost. Consuming Delta-10 is like drinking a strong cup of coffee and then smoking a joint. While the experience of consuming Delta-8 is more akin to indica marijuana strains, the experience of consuming Delta-10 is more akin to a high from a sativa strain that is very cerebral.
We are one of the first stores in Tennessee to offer Delta-10 THC. Our vape cartridges are safely derived from hemp and free of residual solvents.
CBD (Cannabidiol):
CBD is the main non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis & hemp. When CBD is introduced into the body, it stimulates a range of receptors in the nervous system and brain, which in turn helps with mood, inflammation, sleep, pain, metabolism, digestion, immune system, fertility, and on and on.
CBG (Cannabigerol):
CBG has been dubbed “The God Particle” because it has so many promising properties. It has been studied for its neuroprotective properties, anti-cancer properties, and for issues related to digestion.
Many consumers report that smoking hemp flower that’s high in CBG really helps boost their mood. This makes sense, as CBG has also been shown to increase levels of anandamide, known as “the bliss molecule,” in our bodies.
CBC (Cannabichromene):
CBC is thought to have antidepressant properties and to synergistically work with other cannabinoids to boost the effects of those cannabinoids. In other words, CBC is an important contributor to the entourage effect.
CBN (Cannabinol):
CBN is getting a lot of attention for its potential as an antibacterial agent. Groundbreaking studies have shown that CBN is potent against MRSA bacteria that are resistant to traditional antibiotics. CBN is also being studied for its anti-inflammatory properties, neuroprotective properties, and appetite boosting properties.
THCA:
THCA hemp flower is premium grown cannabis that contains high levels of the compound THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), which is non-intoxicating in its raw form and the precursor to Delta-9 THC. Delta-9 THC is the compound found in marijuana that elicits psychoactive effects.
According to the 2018 Hemp Farm Bill, THCA flower is legal to possess and consume in the United States if it contains 0.3% or less concentration of Delta-9 THC. This means that for every 1 gram (1000 mg) of cannabis flower, there can be up to 3mg of Delta-9 THC and an unlimited amount of THCA.
When THCA undergoes a decarboxylation process (heating), it converts to Delta-9 THC and becomes intoxicating, fitting into the brain’s cannabinoid receptors and producing psychoactive effects. This means that if THCA flower is heated up during consumption, the THCA converts into head-changing Delta-9 THC.
We partner with farms that breed strains to be low in Delta-9 THC and high in THCA, in order to cultivate premium smokable flower that is federally compliant.