Delta 10 THC: What is it? Its Effects & More

What is Delta 10 THC?

Delta-10 THC, commonly called Δ10-THC, is a minor cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. Although it’s chemically similar to delta-19 THC—the most common psychoactive cannabinoid—it has a different structure and different effects, giving the user a slightly different experience. 

Scientists first discovered delta-10 THC in the 1980s, but its properties and effects only gained attention in recent years as the cannabis industry has developed. Unfortunately, scientists haven’t yet studied delta-10 THC in the same way as other cannabinoids—such as Delta-9 THC. As a result, we don’t fully know the true benefits of the delta-10 THC cannabinoid. 

One of the most significant differences between delta-9 THC and delta-10 THC is the origin. For instance, the cannabis plant often naturally produces delta-9 THC, whereas the degradation of other cannabinoids during storage or processing forms delta-10 THC. Therefore, you’ll often find delta-10 THC in far lower quantities than delta-9 THC. 

What’s the Difference Between Delta-8 and Delta-10?

Consumers are becoming more aware of the different cannabinoids with the legalization of cannabis in North America and other parts of the globe. And two of the most commonly talked about cannabinoids among cannabis users are delta-10 THC and delta-8 THC. Although they’re both relatively new to the market and aren’t as common as delta-9 THC, they’re growing in popularity because of their unique—in some ways similar—properties. 

First, delta-8 THC and delta-10 THC have the same chemical structure as delta-9 THC. But, delta-8 THC has a slightly different molecular structure from delta-9 THC. Delta-10, however, is far rarer; it has a double bond on the 10th atom, setting it apart from delta-8 THC and delta-10 THC. 

Here are some of the most common differences between the two:

1. Availability  

One of the most notable differences between delta-8 THC and delta-10 THC is the product’s availability. In truth, delta-8 is far more readily available than delta-10 THC because—unlike delta-10 THC—cannabis plants produce it. In contrast, delta-10 is a by-product of the degradation of other cannabinoids, making it more expensive and less available. 

2. Body Effects 

Another difference between delta-8 THC and delta-9 THC is their effects on the body. For example, delta-8 THC only produces mild effects; some people describe it as slightly weaker than delta-9 THC. However, some users have also suggested they feel more clear-headed after consuming delta-10-tetrahydrocannabinol.  

Delta-10 THC has far less research, but users believe it has excellent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it superb for anyone battling chronic conditions. Still, the full effects of delta-10 THC remain largely unknown. 

What Are the Effects of Delta-10?

1. Anti-Inflammatory 

One of the main effects of delta-10 THC is its anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation can cause many health problems, such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. Here’s the good news: research has suggested that delta-10 THC is excellent at reducing inflammation. Although the research is still limited, the early signs are highly promising. 

2. Pain Relief

Another key benefit of using delta-10 THC is the pain-relieving properties. Many cannabinoids—including delta-9 THC and CBD—offer analgesic effects, which can reduce pain and overall discomfort. Early studies show delta-10 THC could be excellent for reducing pain caused by many health issues. 

3. Anti-Anxiety 

Many Americans have suffered from anxiety since the COVID-19 pandemic, and many are choosing cannabis as a remedy. Here’s more good news: early research suggests delta-10 THC may reduce anxiety due to its medicinal properties. As a result, it can be an excellent remedy for social anxiety disorder and PTSD. 

4. Psychoactive Compounds 

Similarly to delta-9 THC, delta-10 does have some excellent psychoactive compounds; therefore, it can have an excellent effect on your mind and mood. Although research remains low, users have suggested that they feel calmer and more focused when using delta-10 THC. 

Does Delta 10 Get You High?

Delta-10 THC, similarly to delta-9 THC, is a psychoactive compound that has psychoactive effects that can affect your mind and mood. Therefore, it can get you high if you smoke or eat enough. However, many smokers have suggested that delta-10 THC provides a clearer, more focused high than other cannabinoids. 

Then again, many factors determine how high delta-10 THC can make you feel. These include the amount consumed, consumption method, and your tolerance to cannabis. In addition, the effects of delta-10 THC could be influenced by other terpenes in the cannabis product. 

What Are The Benefits of Delta-10 THC?

There are many medical benefits to using cannabis, but delta-10 THC has some immense mental and physical advantages. Here are some of the main potential benefits:

• Pain relief – delta-10 THC has some excellent analgesic properties; these can help relieve arthritis, headaches, and nerve pain.
• Anti-inflammatory properties – chronic inflammation can lead to many negative side effects, but delta-10 THC can help to reduce inflammation, 
• Anti-anxiety – like many cannabinoids, delta-10 THC has some excellent anti-anxiety properties. 
• Appetite stimulation – delta-10 THC may help to boost your appetite, which is essential if you’ve had any prior health problems. 

Is Delta-10 Safe to Consume?

Although delta-10 THC is a new compound, early signs show it’s very safe to consume. However, as always, safety largely depends on the quality of the product. Ensure you buy from a reputable brand with good reviews; remember, the cannabis industry still lacks regulation in some places. 

However, certain people should take extra precautions—including pregnant women, people with a history of high blood pressure or heart disease, etc. Moreover, although the psychoactive side effects of delta-10 THC are weaker than delta-9 THC, you can still feel negative side effects if you consume too much. 

Is Delta-10 THC Legal?

The legality of delta-10 THC is unclear because it’s a new compound. However, cannabis is not federally legal in the United States, but the legal status varies from state to state. As of February 2023, medicinal cannabis is legal in 38 states across the United States, but recreational cannabis is only legal in 18 states. 

Federal law surrounding delta-10 THC may change as more research is conducted and there’s an overall better understanding of the product. As with any cannabis product, it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest legal changes. 

If you’re heading outside of the United States, especially outside of the West where cannabis laws can still be draconian, you should strongly consider researching the local cannabis laws. Although delta-10 THC is weaker than delta-9 THC, many nations don’t differentiate between the different types of cannabinoids. 

Where To Get Delta-10 THC Products

Even though delta-10 products are new to the market, there are many places where you can purchase them. Here are some of the most popular places:

• Dispensaries: You may find delta-10 THC products at licensed dispensaries around the United States. But it’s always a smart idea to ring before you visit to see whether they stock delta-10 products. After all, these products aren’t always common. 
• Online retailers: If you like using the internet, online retailers are a fantastic place to purchase delta-10 THC products. Many online retailers sell various delta-10 THC products, including edibles, vape cartridges, and tinctures. 
• Local smoke shops/CBD stores: Some local smoke shops and CBD stores sell delta-10 THC products. Yet again, it’s wise to call in before to see whether they stock the products. 

It’s essential to remember that delta-10 THC is a largely unregulated compound, so always buy from a trusted source and do your research. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How Is Delta-10 THC Made?

You won’t typically find delta-10 THC in high concentrations in marijuana plants. As a result, it’s usually synthesized from hemp-derived CBD with chemical reactions and purification methods. So, here is a detailed breakdown of how cultivators make delta-10 THC.

1. Isolate CBD: The first step for any cultivator is to isolate the CBD. They do this by using an extraction method, such as ethanol or CO2. After that, they’ll purify the CBD to create CBD isolate. 
2. Isomerization: The cultivators then mix the CBD isolate with an acidic catalyst before heating it to initiate an isomerization reaction. That’ll rearrange the molecular structure of the CBD, thus forming delta-10 THC. 
3. Purification: The next step is purification with various techniques, such as distillation and chromatography, to separate the delta-10 THC from other impurities. 
4. Testing: Finally, the cultivators will test the final product to ensure high quality and safety. 

What Are Popular Delta-10 THC Products?

As the cannabis industry grows in North America, many delta-10 THC products are on the market. Here are the most popular options:

• Tinctures: Delta-10 THC tinctures are a very popular oral method of consumption. They come in a dropper bottle, and manufacturers mix them with carrier oil like MCT oil. 
• Vape cartridges: The most popular way to consume delta-10 THC is through vape cartridges. It’s quick, convenient, and safe. 
• Topicals: Delta-10 topicals—such as creams and balms—are becoming widely available in the United States. You can place them on the skin for various medicinal benefits. 
• Edibles: Delta-10 THC edibles, such as chocolates, are becoming more widely available in the United States. You can eat edibles in various ways, including cakes, candy, and chewing gum. It’s one of the most popular ways of consuming cannabis. 

What Are The Negative Side Effects of Delta-10 THC?

Delta-10 THC offers users many health benefits, but there can also be some negatives if you don’t carefully monitor your dosage. Here are some of the most common side effects:

• Dry mouth: One of the most common side effects of cannabis is dry mouth (often called cotton mouth). Like any other compound, delta-10 THC can cause dry mouth. 
• Anxiety: If you consume too much delta-10 THC at once, you may experience anxiety. 
• Dizziness: Some users may feel lightheaded or dizzy when consuming delta-10 THC. 
• Raised heart rate: Although it’s not always a bad side effect, delta-10 THC can cause raised heart rate. 
• Red eyes: If you’ve ever had red eyes before from smoking cannabis, you may also experience that when using delta-10 THC. 

Don’t worry if you feel these side effects; they won’t kill you. Although they may feel uncomfortable, relax and the effects will soon pass. It’s very important to buy your products from reputable brands to ensure negative side effects are at a minimum. 

Is Delta-9 THC Different From Delta-10 THC?

Delta-9 THC and delta-10 THC are different compounds. And, as a result, they offer slightly different side effects. Many people suggest that delta-9 THC offers stronger side effects compared to delta-10 THC. 

However, both products can provide the best cannabis side effects, including relaxation, increased focus, euphoria, and much more. More research is needed on the effects of delta-10 THC, but everything looks highly promising so far. Check out our full comparison between delta-9 and delta-10 THC.

Will Delta-10 show up in a drug test?

Yes, unfortunately just like delta-8, delta-9 or any form of medical marijuana it will show up in a drug test. So if you have a test coming up it’s best to give yourself plenty of time to clear it out of your system. For more information read our guide on THC and drug tests.

What Is The Right Dose of Delta-10 THC?

There’s no straight answer to the right delta-10 THC dose. The right dose for you can depend on your body type, genetics, and prior experience with using cannabis. However, the recommended starting dose of delta-10 THC is between 5-20 milligrams; the cannabis industry deems this as low to moderate. 

But, as always, you should start as small as possible and work your way up. That way, you’ll prevent any negative side effects and boost your chances of a great high. It’s also highly important to contact a doctor before trying any new substance, especially if you suffer from any underlying medical conditions. 

Also, always note that the potency of delta-10 products depends on the source. That’s why it’s important to buy from reliable manufacturers with clear information regarding how much THC the product contains. 

Wrapping Up

Delta-10 THC has a strong future in the cannabis industry. However, the compound is still very new, and it’s not widely available yet. Therefore, delta-10-tetrahydrocannabinol has a long way to go before it competes with delta-9 or delta-8 THC. 

Regardless, the early signs are fantastic.

It offers a superb high, excellent medicinal side effects, and it’s very safe. Ensure you start small and build your dosage. You should also try various products to see which one works for you.