Is Delta-9 Legal in Virginia?

What Is Delta-9 THC?

Delta 9 THC is the most popular psychoactive isomer of Delta THC, the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. Delta 9 THC is available in both hemp and marijuana plants, although marijuana plants generally contain higher levels of Delta 9 THC than hemp.

When consumed, Delta 9 THC produces a range of effects, including euphoria, relaxation, altered sensory perception, increased appetite, and pain relief. However, Delta 9 THC can also cause side effects such as impaired memory and coordination, increased heart rate, and anxiety, especially when consumed in high doses. Long-term, heavy use of Delta 9 THC may lead to addiction and adverse effects on the user's mental health.

Delta 9 THC is available in various forms, including edibles, tinctures, concentrates, and gummies.

Is Delta-9 Legal in Virginia?

HB 2312 makes marijuana-derived Delta 9 THC legal for Virginians as long as they are aged 21 or older and do not possess more than the stipulated limits under the law. Virginians with intractable epilepsy who have written certifications from physicians, physician assistants, or nurse practitioners can also use Delta 9 THC to treat their conditions pursuant to HB 1251. While recognized patients can currently purchase THCA oil containing Delta 9 THC from licensed pharmaceutical processors in the state, the recreational sales of Delta 9 THC are only expected to begin in 2024.

Also, hemp-derived Delta 9 THC non-edibles and non-drinks products are legal pursuant to the 2018 Farm Bill, HB 1839, and HB 30. Such products may be shipped into Virginia across state lines without repercussion and are available at head shops, smoke shops, and CBD stores.

Note that it is illegal to ship marijuana-derived Delta 9 THC across state lines into Virginia, but hemp-derived Delta 9 THC products that are not edibles and drinks with a concentration below 0.3% may be shipped to Virginia locations.

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

Delta 8 and Delta 9 are both psychoactive isomers of THC found in cannabis plants, but Delta 8 THC is less abundant than Delta 9 THC in the plants. Delta 9 THC is generally considered more potent than Delta 8 THC, with research indicating that Delta 8 THC is only around 50-75% as potent as Delta 9 THC.

Delta 8 THC is commonly synthesized from CBD through a chemical reaction. While both Delta 8 and Delta 9 produce similar effects, some users report that Delta 8 THC produces a more relaxed, clear-headed high with a lower potential for adverse effects such as paranoia and anxiety.

Delta-9 vs Delta-10

Delta 9 and Delta 10 are two of the many cannabinoids existing in the cannabis plant. While Delta 9 THC is famous for its psychoactive effects, Delta 10 THC is a relatively newly discovered cannabinoid that got its name by having its double bond on the tenth carbon atom. Delta 9 is typically found in higher concentrations in marijuana plants, while Delta 10 is found in smaller amounts. However, Delta 10 THC can be synthesized from cannabidiol in laboratories.

Currently, there is limited research on the mechanisms of action of Delta 10 THC within the body. However, like other cannabis compounds, Delta 10 is believed to interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and bind to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nervous system. While the available research on Delta 10 THC is limited, early anecdotal reports suggest that it produces a mild uplifting and relaxing effect without the intense euphoria or potential paranoia associated with Delta 9 THC. Therefore, Delta 10 THC may alleviate stress, improve mood, and increase energy levels.

Like Delta 9, Delta 10 THC can still produce euphoric effects, but its potency is lower than that of Delta 9 THC. Further research is needed to better understand the impact of Delta 10 THC on the body, and individuals may have different responses based on their unique ECS and tolerance levels.

How Long Does Delta-9 Stay in Your System?

Depending on factors like the amount consumed, the frequency of consumption, and the individual's metabolism, the time taken for Delta 9 THC to remain in the body varies. For instance, chronic users are more likely to test positive for Delta 9 THC for extended periods than occasional users. In addition, variables like body fat percentage and hydration levels can alter the rate of clearance of Delta 9 THC from the body.

After consumption, Delta 9 THC may typically be detected in blood for up to 36 hours, in saliva for up to 2 days, in urine for up to 1 month, and in the hair for up to 3 months.

In most cases, drug tests cannot differentiate between THC isomers. Tests usually detect all THC isomers as the same; hence, regardless of the Delta THC isomer consumed, a drug test will return positive if THC metabolites have not exited the body.

Where Can I Find Delta-9 Gummies in Virginia?

Marijuana-derived Delta 9 gummies have not yet gone on sale in Virginia, as recreational cannabis sales have not officially begun. However, residents can purchase hemp-derived Delta 9 gummies from hemp shops, CBD stores, and other local convenience stores. Hemp-derived Delta 9 THC is typically extracted from the flowers and buds of the hemp plant. Hemp-derived Delta 9 gummies are infused with several milligrams of Delta 9 THC but do not exceed the federally permitted THC limit.

Although you can find hemp-derived Delta 9 gummies at local shops, many buyers prefer shopping online as online vendors typically offer lower prices and allow buyers to remain discreet. It is legal to ship hemp-derived Delta 9 gummies into Virginia from other states if they contain no more than 0.3% Delta 9 THC.

Delta 9 THC gummies are generally safe to use. However, whether Delta 9 gummies are safe for consumption in a particular case may depend on certain factors, including the source and quality of the gummies, the dose, and the user's tolerance to cannabinoids. Therefore, it is recommended only to purchase Delta 9 gummies from reputable manufacturers and vendors able to provide third-party test results.

You may experience side effects when using Delta 9 gummies since Delta 9 THC causes a “high” and is present in the product. Consuming Delta 9 gummies can result in an altered state of consciousness and paranoia, similar to the adverse effects of Delta 9 THC.