What Is Delta-9? Benefits, Uses, & Effects

Delta-9 is a chemical in cannabis and hemp plants. It can have an intoxicating effect and may cause some side effects.

Cannabis and hemp plants consist of dozens of cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are chemicals that affect the body in various ways. Two well-known cannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

A few different forms of THC are in cannabis plants. The most abundant form of THC is delta-9. When people refer to the effects of THC, they’re usually talking about delta-9.

Other forms of THC, such as delta-8 and delta-10, have similar chemical structures to delta-9, but their effects are usually different.

What’s the short answer?

The chemical formula of delta-9 is C₂₁H₃₀O₂. This is the same as delta-8, except that one of the carbon-carbon double bonds is in a different position.

The majority of research on THC specifically looks at delta-9, so it’s the most well-studied and well-known form of THC.

How does delta-9 affect the body?

THC is the cannabinoid responsible for making people experience an intoxicating effect when they consume cannabis.

The most abundant form of THC is delta-9, which has an intoxicating effect. In other words, delta-9 is what makes you feel high.

After consuming cannabis, you might experience the following positive short-term effects:

• altered perception of time and events
• giddiness
• increased focus
• relaxation

Like CBD, people have associated delta-9 THC with a number of potential medical benefits.

Is delta-9 safe to use?

Most people can tolerate delta-9 THC well, but it’s important to be aware of the risks and potential side effects.

THC triggers your brain to release large amounts of dopamine, a “feel good” chemical. This is why being high feels so pleasant to many people.

Are there potential benefits to using delta-9?

Yes — delta-9 THC has been associated with a wide range of potential medical benefits.

According to 2021 researchTrusted Source, THC might be able to treat:

• anxiety
• glaucoma
• insomnia
• low appetite
• muscle spasticity
• obstructive sleep apnea
• nausea
• pain

The Food and Drug Administration approved some medications containing THC to treat medical conditions. For example, experts use a synthetic form of delta-9 THC to create dronabinol Trusted Source (Marinol), which they use to stimulate appetite in people with HIV, people undergoing chemotherapy, and people with anorexia.

If possible, consider discussing THC with a doctor or another healthcare professional before trying it for yourself, especially if you’re hoping to use it to treat a medical condition. Look for a knowledgeable cannabis-friendly doctor.

Can delta-9 get you high?

Yes! In fact, delta-9 is the most abundant form of THC in cannabis plants. THC is the chemical that makes cannabis intoxicating.

The bottom line

Delta-9 THC is the most common and well-studied form of THC. It’s an intoxicating chemical that people can use for medical purposes.

As always, it’s important to exercise caution when using cannabis products. Only buy cannabis from reputable vendors, and avoid taking too much at once.