Is Delta-10 Legal in Texas?

What Is Delta-10 THC?

Delta-10 THC is a minor cannabinoid found in marijuana and hemp plants. Unlike more abundant cannabinoids, such as CBD, THC, and CBG, Delta-10 THC occurs naturally in low levels in the cannabis plant. Because it was recently discovered, little is known about the benefits and side effects of Delta-10 THC. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it offers relief from anxiety but may cause euphoria, particularly at high doses.

Delta-10 THC products include topicals, tinctures, and edibles as well as formulations that can be smoked and vaped. Although the 2018 Farm Bill authorized hemp-derived products in the United States, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) maintains that all synthetically generated tetrahydrocannabinols remain Schedule I Controlled Substances in the United States. As a result, Delta-10 THC products manufactured synthetically remain in a legal gray area.

Is Delta-10 THC Legal in Texas?

Hemp-derived Delta-10 products are legal in Texas. The 2018 Agricultural Improvement Act legalized hemp-derived products in the United States. Therefore, derivatives of the hemp plant, including Delta-10 products are legal. Texas enacted its own law, HB 1325, which allowed hemp-derived Delta-10 products containing up to 0.3% Delta-9 THC to be sold or possessed in the state. With recreational cannabis not yet legal in Texas, marijuana-derived Delta-10 THC is illegal in the state.

What is the Difference Between Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC?

Delta-8 THC and Delta-10 THC are isomers of THC, with the same chemical formula but different structures leading to varying user experiences. The sole structural difference between the two isomers is the position of a carbon double bond on their carbon chains. In Delta-10, the double bond is positioned on the tenth carbon atom, while in Delta-8, the bond is positioned on the eighth carbon atom. This slight difference in structural makeup makes the cannabinoids interact differently with the receptors in the Endocannabinoid System (ECS).

Both Delta-10 and Delta-8 occur in cannabis plants in limited amounts. Therefore, processors usually synthesize them from hemp-derived CBD rather than extract the cannabinoids from marijuana.

Delta-8 induces a calming high in users without the paranoia or anxiety associated with Delta-9 THC. However, consuming Delta-8 may also come with an increase in appetite. Delta-10 is reported to be even milder than Delta-8. It is also less potent, an outcome that accounts for its lower euphoric effects. Delta-10 boosts concentration and does not impair cognition or coordination. Similar to Delta-8, Delta-10 produces a weak high and induces relaxation. However, Delta-8 is a more effective sleep aid than Delta-10.

Delta-10 vs Delta-9

Delta-9 THC and Delta-10 THC are also isomers with the same chemical formula but a slightly different structure. In Delta-10 THC, a carbon double-bond is on the tenth carbon in its structural chain, not on the ninth carbon as in Delta-9 THC.

Delta-10 THC, unlike Delta-9 THC, is only found in trace concentrations in cannabis plants. Delta-9, sometimes known as classic THC, is the most intoxicating of THC isomers. It is also the easiest to extract. Delta-9 may be used to treat pain or for relaxation. It is known to induce the strongest impact on cognition, mental focus, and pleasure of all THC isomers. Commonly reported side effects of Delta-9 THC include paranoia, fear, anxiety, and hunger.

Delta-10 produces energizing effects on users and is considered more nootropic than other THC isomers. Nootropic implies that a chemical, usually plant-based or botanical, influences how the mind operates, clarity of thought, and cognition in general. Generally, Delta-10 THC users experience relief from stress, a sense of relaxation, and feelings of upliftment.

Note that research is still lacking on the benefits and side effects of Delta-10 THC and how the cannabinoid impacts the endocannabinoid system in the body. The majority of the information available on Delta-10 THC comes from anecdotal evidence.

Many cannabis users prefer Delta-10 to Delta-9 because of its lower psychoactive potential. Although not as potent as Delta-9, Delta-10 induces a mild high accompanied by a boost in energy which can improve productivity while avoiding the potential intoxicating effect of THC.

How Long Does Delta-10 Stay in Your System?

Delta-10 THC may stay in the body long after its physiological effects have tapered off. After taking a Delta-10 THC product, the substance is broken down in the body into byproducts called metabolites. These metabolites are detectable by saliva, urine, blood, and hair follicle tests. Although many people think only Delta-9 THC metabolites are detectable by drug tests, all THC isomers are broken down in similar patterns. So, regardless of the THC product consumed, drug tests will reveal the presence of THC metabolites in the body.

The following factors influence the time taken for the body to expel Delta-10 THC metabolites:

• Metabolism: Delta-10 THC products are metabolized by the kidney and liver. People will fast metabolism will eliminate THC metabolites quicker than those with slow metabolism
• Age: Generally, the older you are, the less efficiently your liver and kidney can remove drugs and their metabolites. Hence, THC metabolites typically linger in the system longer for older people
• Body Fat: Since Delta-10 THC is fat soluble, persons with higher body fat percentages will store this cannabinoid for longer. Therefore, Delta-10 metabolites will remain longer in their bodies
• Frequency of Use: Persons who consume Delta-10 THC products daily or regularly will have THC metabolites in their systems longer than infrequent users

Note that drug tests have varying detection windows. For example, THC is detectable in urine for:

• 3 days: In single-use case scenarios
• 5-7 days: In moderate use cases, such as about four times a week
• 10-15 days: In daily use cases
• Up to 30 days or more: for habitual long-term users, consuming the product multiple times daily

A blood test may detect THC use occurring within the last 12 hours in occasional users and up to 30 days in habitual users. Saliva tests may detect THC use up to 72 hours after consumption, while hair follicle tests reveal THC use up to 90 days after consumption.

Where to Buy Delta-10 in Texas

Delta-10 products, typically derived from hemp plants, are available from hemp shops and CBD stores. You can also find Delta-10 products at gas stations and convenience stores. With hemp legalized in Texas, cannabis businesses operating within Texas are permitted to cultivate, process, and sell hemp-derived products in the state. Note that many hemp shops and CBD stores require buyers to be at least 21 years old before purchasing Delta-10 products.

Many online vendors also offer Delta-10 THC products. Ordering Delta-10 products online is a convenient option for many buyers. Usually, you can find a wider range of options and better discounts from online stores.