What Are Delta 9 Gummies and How Do They Work?

What are Delta 9 THC gummies? It's a relatively straightforward answer that may confuse some as the spread of cannabis products continues to diversify. No worries, though. We here at Snoozy have got you covered. 

There's much to unpack thanks to various product types, plant compounds and ingredients. One of the more commonly confused compounds is Delta 9 THC, which is a bit surprising, as it's the most prevalent element and responsible for pot's most well-known "high" effect.

So, what is Delta 9 THC, and how does it compare in various product types, like gummies, smoked flower, and other popular consumption options? 

What is Delta 9 THC?

Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), sometimes referred to as Delta 9 THC, is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. Most notably, THC causes users to experience a psychoactive effect often called a "high." 

We feel the effects of THC, high and other outcomes, thanks to how it interacts with the body's complex receptor system known as the endocannabinoid system, particularly the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body and mind.

Numerous other benefits can occur when THC and other cannabinoids interact with the ECS. Various reported short- and long-term benefits include [1] [2]:

• Hunger stimulation
• Improved immune system
• Pain relief and management
• Some mental health symptoms
• Numerous other bodily functions

Sleep is also affected by the modulation of CB1 receptors, although its impact on CB2 receptors remains more uncertain [3]. Various cannabinoids impact sleep as well, with low doses of THC reported to reduce sleep onset latency and improve abilities to fall asleep [4]. 

What Are Delta 9 Gummies?

Delta 9 THC gummies are one of the most popular edible options today. They represent the ongoing evolution of THC-infused edibles, which originated centuries ago as mainly brownies and butter. Since then, edibles have rapidly evolved and expanded since the 1960s. 

The popularity of gummies continues to grow thanks to the unique formulations and their improved quality. THC is undoubtedly the most popular compound, but it is far from the only reason people turn to cannabis edibles. With ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements, edibles can deliver various desired effects. 

Edibles, often gummies, are a favorite consumption item due to their several benefits compared to other product types, including: 

• Controlled, consistent dosing
• Discretion
• Ease of use
• More significant effects delivered (compared to cannabis smoking)
• Odor-free
• Portability
• Smokeless consumption

Cannabis edibles, including Delta 9 gummies, have seen a surge in popularity in recent years as more states legalize marijuana for medicinal and recreational use. The use of cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes has been the subject of much debate. Still, the benefits of cannabis are now widely recognized and accepted. 

How Do Delta 9 THC Gummies Work?

Delta 9 THC gummies represent a range of options that include food, drinks, and ingredients, all designed to deliver a controlled dose of THC. Edibles are a popular product option for many reasons, as highlighted above. One of an edible's most unique traits is its effects and overall experience. 

THC gummies don't enter the bloodstream right away, which delays the effects being felt, also known as its onset time. Rather than immediately reaching the bloodstream, like smoked and vaped options, edibles are processed through the digestive system and eventually metabolized in the liver. In most cases, the effect of an edible is felt in 30 to 120 minutes. Still, some products have shortened the onset time through advanced formulation techniques.

Unlike smoked and vaped cannabis, with their effects lasting one to four hours, edibles can be felt for a prolonged period, typically six to eight hours after taking effect. 

Comparing Delta 9 THC to CBD, D8, D10, and Other Cannabinoids

Cannabis legalization continues to be a complex and sometimes confusing situation. Delta 9 THC continues to remain illegal on the federal level in the US, with each state and some municipalities setting their own laws. Thanks to the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD products and sales became legal–but it came with an unintended consequence lawmakers had not planned on. 

By law, CBD is required to contain less than 0.3% THC in dry weight or it is considered THC. THC must be derived from CBD and have less than .3% concentration to be legally permitted under the Farm Bill.

Numerous other natural and synthetic compounds became legal for sale and production thanks to the law's verbiage. Multiple states have taken corrective measures to prohibit their access. However, as it currently stands, the sale and production of hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta 8, Delta 10, THCA and various others are now available in addition to THC and CBD. 

Before buying edibles or any other cannabis-based products, consumers should be aware of the effects of each compound [5]:

Delta 9 THC

• The most prevalent cannabis compound is responsible for producing the euphoric psychoactive high commonly associated with pot consumption.
• Binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors, producing various mental and physical effects.
• Shows promise in treating chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, and inflammation through CB1 and CB2 receptor activation.

CBD

• The second-most prevalent compound found in cannabis.
• Non-psychoactive effects. Consumers won't feel high. 
• Demonstrates potential for treating epilepsy, neuroprotective properties, and other reported beneficial effects.

Delta 8 THC

• Closely mirrors Delta-9 THC effects but is more subtle, with its double bond found on the eighth carbon chain, lessening its psychoactive effects.
• Often derived from hemp CBD, found in trace amounts of cannabis plants.
• Binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors, producing various mental and physical effects.
• Legal status is subject to ongoing debate. Often legal when derived from hemp CBD but considered a controlled substance when synthesized.
• Legal status is subject to review in various states.

Delta 10 THC

• Derived from hemp CBD, with limited research on its medicinal properties.
• Double bond on the tenth carbon chain.
• Further analysis is required. Reported to produce a milder psychoactive compared to Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC. 
• Anecdotal reports note possible benefits, including increased focus and euphoria.
• Legal status is subject to review in various states.

THCA

• Acidic precursor, non-psychoactive compound to Delta 9 THC.
• When heated (decarboxylated), THCA converts to THC, making its effects psychoactive.
• Anecdotes and initial studies suggest THCA may possess anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antiemetic properties without producing a high (unless decarboxylated).
• Legal status is subject to review in various states.

Potential Risks of Delta 9 THC

Delta 9 THC offers a range of potential health benefits. However, adverse reactions can occur. Some of the reported side effects include [6]:

• Altered senses
• Altered sense of time
• Mood changes
• Slow or impaired body movement
• Decreased mental cognition (Delayed thinking, impaired problem-solving, impaired memory)
• Delusion and/or hallucinations (In some high doses)

Consuming low doses is one of the best ways to avoid possible side effects. This approach is efficient for newcomers and anyone with low tolerance. Using the "start low, go slow" method, consumers start by eating 5mg or less, then waiting 30-60 minutes before deciding if another dose is needed to reach their desired effects. 

If you have any concerns about cannabis, be sure to consult with a trusted medical professional first. Doing so helps ensure you've considered all the possible outcomes and how they relate to you. 

How To Purchase Delta 9 Gummies

Unlike many other plant compounds, Delta 9 THC remains federally illegal. As such, you aren't able to buy THC as effortlessly as you might with CBD and other minor cannabinoids. With legal or quasi-legal cannabinoids, consumers can pick up products in many stores, in-store and online. 

Delta 9 is a bit more difficult to buy but still easy enough. That is if you live in a legal state market. States that have legalized recreational (adult use) cannabis allow adults 21 and over to purchase Delta 9 gummies and other THC-infused products. Depending on the state's dosage and purchasing limits, consumers can pick up a range of gummies by visiting a licensed dispensary or using a delivery service, if legal in the state.

Medical cannabis is a bit less accessible, as you'll need an active medical ID to purchase products. However, most states make it easy enough to obtain a medical card if you qualify. In some cases, states may have reciprocity laws, which allow patients to buy products in certain states when visiting. 

If you aren't sure of the laws in your state, do some research online. Consider calling your state or local cannabis management office if you aren't sure of the laws after your initial query. 

Keep Your Gummies Fresh

THC can last anywhere from six months to several years, depending on its ingredients and formulation. But the most important factor is, no doubt, storage.

Storing cannabis in a cool, dark place helps preserve just about every cannabis product. This method helps slow the degradation of the product. But even if you do everything right, your gummies will eventually lose their freshness, effects, and possibly its flavor and/or aroma. 

You'll want to eat those edibles before they turn. Consuming past-due food of any kind can result in an unpleasant taste and possibly more severe adverse reactions. But THC is that much more of a concern, as THC converts to the sleep-inducing compound CBN, which may be less than ideal for anyone looking for uplifting effects from their cannabis consumption [7].

Now that you know everything about Delta 9 THC, pick up some Snoozy edibles containing hemp-derived cannabinoids such as Delta 9 THC, CBD, and CBN.