Is Delta-9 Legal in Washington DC?

What Is Delta-9 THC?

Delta-9 THC or Delta-tetrahydrocannabinol is an isomer of THC, a naturally occurring chemical compound in Cannabis sativa plants. It is the major cannabinoid (chemical compound) in cannabis and can be derived from both marijuana and hemp plants varieties of cannabis. Delta-9 THC is the most researched and psychoactive of the numerous cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. When Delta-9 THC enters the body, it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) by binding to the brain's CB1 and CB2 receptors. This interaction causes a range of effects in the body, some more desirable and pleasant than others.

While everyone has their unique experience with consuming Delta-9 THC, common effects include feeling motivated, relaxed, euphoric, and uplifted (mood). Delta-9 THC users report that these feelings become stronger as they consume more. Delta-9 THC is safe when used at moderate dosage and is said to have some benefits. Some of its touted benefits are seen in the treatment or management of nausea, glaucoma, low appetite, anxiety, pain, and muscle spasticity. Delta-9 THC is also claimed to help with stress management, mood regulation, sleep support, improved physical comfort, and a sense of calm when used correctly.

Despite its potential benefits, consumers may experience some side effects if Delta-9 THC is used excessively. These include slowed reaction times, memory loss, anxiety, increased appetite, rapid heart rate, and increased blood pressure. Delta-10 THC products are manufactured and sold in different forms, including gummies, cookies, tinctures, pre-rolled joints, topical lotions, infused beverages, and candies.

Is Delta-9 Legal in Washington DC?

Yes. All derivatives of hemp, including Delta-9 THC are legal in Washington DC. This follows the legalization of hemp, hemp products, and all its derivatives by the 2018 Farm Bill. Washington DC is a federal district. Hence, it operates under the authority of the United States Congress, which passed the 2018 Farm Bill and, in most cases, complies with federal rules. The district does not prohibit any Delta-9 THC products as long as they do not violate federal requirements. All hemp-derived products, including Delta-9 THC products, in the United States, must contain no more than 0.3% THC on a dry-weight basis to be considered legal.

In Washington DC, Delta-9 THC products are available in local shops and CBD shops. They are also legal to ship into the district and to local addresses, provided they are hemp-derived and contain no more than 0.3% THC. Hence, residents can purchase hemp-based Delta-9 THC products online and have the products delivered right to their doors.

What is the Difference Between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC?

Delta-9 THC and Delta-8 THC are both psychoactive chemical components of cannabis plants. However, Delta-9 THC naturally occurs in more abundance in marijuana and hemp than Delta-8 THC. Delta-9 THC can be readily extracted from cannabis because it exists in high amounts, but Delta-8 THC is commonly synthesized from CBD (cannabidiol).

Although they are both THC isomers, Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC cause varying effects when consumed owing to their different chemical structures. Delta-8 THC has a double bond on its eight-carbon chain, while Delta-9 THC's double bond is on its ninth-carbon chain. This slight difference in chemical structure explains why Delta-9 THC is significantly more potent and psychoactive than Delta-8 THC. Hence, Delta-8 THC produces a less intense "high" than Delta-9 THC. This is why some people prefer taking Delta-8 THC-infused products. On the other hand, individuals who use Delta-9 THC recreationally do so because it tends to cause an extremely intense "high".

Delta-9 vs Delta-10

Generally, Delta-10 THC is considered a weaker THC isomer than Delta-9 THC. However, both are psychoactive and can get users high. Delta-9 THC occurs naturally in large amounts in hemp and marijuana plants. On the other hand, only trace amounts of Delta-10 THC are found naturally in Cannabis sativa plants. Hence, it is mostly synthesized in the laboratory when needed for large-scale production. Delta-9 THC and Delta-10 have different effects on consumers. Usually, Delta-9 produces significantly intense effects, with the tendency to cause relaxation and sleepiness. Delta-10 produces much milder psychoactive effects. In contrast, its effects are mostly motivating and energizing.

How Long Does Delta-9 Stay in Your System?

When Delta-9 THC is ingested, its effects can last for between two to five hours or more, depending on the consumer's body and the size consumed. However, Delta-9 THC metabolites can remain in the body anywhere between 24 hours and 90 days after the "high" wears off and can be detected by drug tests within this period. Contrary to popular belief, standard drug tests cannot differentiate between Delta-9 THC or Deta-8 or Delta-10 THC. Generally, drug tests are meant to find THC metabolites in the body. So, if a person has used any THC isomer recently and faces a drug test, the chances of getting positive results are high.

The factors determining how long Delta-9 THC stays in a user's system include the following:

• Metabolic Rate - Persons with faster metabolic rates process Delta-9 THC more quickly
• Frequency of Use - The more a person consumes Delta-9 THC, the higher the chances of retaining it in their system
• Consumer's Age - Young individuals metabolize and process Delta-9 THC faster than older people
• Dosage - People who consume higher quantities of Delta-9 THC tend to have it in their system for an extended period than individuals who take small size per serving

The average duration to find Delta-8 THC metabolites in the body depends on how it is being tested. Common test methods include blood, urine, saliva, and hair tests:

• Blood Tests - A blood test can detect Delta-10 THC in the blood within one to two days after the last use
• Urine Tests - Delta-9 THC can remain in urine for between three and 30 days after the last use and be detected with urine tests within this period
• Saliva Tests - Delta-9 THC will show up on saliva tests for up to three days after the last consumption
• Hair Tests - Delta-9 THC stays longer in hair follicles and can be detected in hair for up to 90 days after it was last consumed

Where Can I Find Delta-9 Gummies in Washington DC?

Washington DC residents can buy hemp-based Delta-9 THC gummies and other hemp-derived Delta-9 THC products at local shops and CDB stores across the federal district. Anyone who craves convenience can shop online directly from local stores offering online Delta product sales services. It is recommended to start with smaller doses when consuming Delta-9 THC gummies, especially for persons new to Delta-10 THC use. Edibles like gummies are usually more potent than other consumption methods and should be used in moderation.

Most Delta-9 gummies will contain between 5mg and 10mg of THC. The recommended dose for experienced users is 5mg (considered the standard dose), while beginners are usually advised to take half of a standard dose or lower to start with. Depending on a person's tolerance level, the effects of a 10mg Delta-9 THC gummy can last up to 12 hours in the system.