You’re standing in a store looking at a package of delta-9 THC gummies that claims to be completely legal, even though you live in a state where marijuana is banned. The label says “hemp-derived” and mentions something about 0.3%. But you’re not sure if buying it could get you in trouble — or cause you to fail a drug test.
The truth is that delta-9 THC legality depends on where it comes from, how much is in the product, and which state you’re in. It works much the same way at standard THC in the body. But it’s important to know the difference between it and standard THC.
What is Delta-9 THC?
Delta-9 THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, works the same way as THC found in other cannabis products. THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that creates the “high” feeling. The body’s natural endocannabinoid system regulates things like mood, memory, and appetite. THC (delta-9 and standard) mimics compounds the body already makes, which is why it can cause effects on the body.
Delta-9 vs. CBD
CBD sits on the opposite end of the spectrum. Unlike delta-9, CBD won’t get someone high. It’s non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t alter a person’s mental state. CBD is sometimes used in products like lotion or gel, so it can work directly with the body’s endocannabinoid system without any consumption.
The main divide comes down to effects and legality. Delta-9 causes psychoactive effects, while CBD offers potential wellness benefits without any effects. Hemp-derived CBD is legal nationwide in the United States, while delta-9 faces more restrictions.
Is Delta-9 THC Legal?
The 2018 Farm Bill created a legal loophole that confuses a lot of people: hemp-derived delta-9 THC is legal if the product contains no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight. This means you can legally buy a hemp-derived gummy or drink with delta-9 THC, as long as it stays under that 0.3% threshold.
However, marijuana THC remains a Schedule I controlled substance. This classification labels cannabis-derived products (including anything made with THC) to have no medical use and high abuse potential. This classification hasn’t budged despite growing state-level legalization.
State laws vary dramatically when it comes to delta-9 THC, creating a confusing patchwork that’s hard to navigate. Some states have fully legalized cannabis for adults. Others allow only medical use, and some ban all THC regardless of source.
Even in states where marijuana is illegal, hemp-derived delta-9 products might still be available because of federal law. However, some states have closed this loophole. Before buying delta-9 gummies, check both your state’s marijuana laws and any specific hemp regulations. What’s legal to order online might not be legal to possess under state law. Transportation across state lines may also carry significant legal consequences.
From a chemistry standpoint, delta-9 THC from hemp is identical to delta-9 THC from marijuana. Your body can’t tell the difference — delta-9 THC will still show up on a drug test as evidence of cannabis consumption.
Hemp and marijuana are technically both cannabis plants, but federal law separates them based on THC content. Hemp is also used more in practical settings, such as for weaving clothing or making rope. Hemp does produce buds like the smokeable “nugs” of standard cannabis plants. But they are most often used for creating CBD products due to their low THC content. Legally, hemp contains 0.3% or less THC by dry weight, while plants strictly classified as marijuana contain more.
Can Delta-9 THC get you high?
Yes, delta-9 THC will get you high whether it comes from hemp or marijuana. The effects depend on how much you take, how you consume it, and your individual body chemistry.
Many factors can affect the intensity of a delta-9 THC high, including:
- Dosage: Much like standard THC, even 5-10mg of a delta-9 THC high can feel significant if the person isn’t used to consuming it.
- Method: Smoking or vaping any form of THC can have an effect within minutes, while edibles may take 1-2 hours to “kick in” but last much longer.
- Physical Tolerance: Regular users may need higher doses of THC to experience the same effects as someone who hasn’t consumed it before. This is different from the effect some people experience wherein edibles only “work” the second time they take them.
- Body chemistry: Metabolism, weight, and genetics all play a role. Physically smaller people and people with lower body fat percentages may experience a more accelerated “high” experience.
The typical experience of a cannabis high includes euphoria, relaxation, increased chattiness and/or feelings of tranquility, altered senses, decreased physical pain, increased appetite, and sometimes impaired coordination. Some people get anxious, paranoid, or experience racing thoughts, especially at higher doses.
Effects of THC (delta-9 and standard) generally last 2-4 hours when smoked and 4-8 hours with edibles. Different effects or timelines may result when combining with other substances. If someone has only consumed cannabis one way (such as smoking), their tolerance will not carry over to other methods.
It should be noted that delta-9 THC still carries the same risks of overdose, dependence, and accidental overconsumption as standard THC. Dosage also still applies — 50mg of delta-9 THC will feel similar to 50mg of standard THC. Delta-9 THC should not be treated as a “safe” alternative to THC, due to its incredible similarity.The ratios of THC and CBD can also have an impact on a person’s experience. No amount of CBD can “cancel out” THC, especially at higher doses. But the presence of CBD can make the effects of THC less acute or overwhelming (depending on ratios), and people who struggle with repeated overuse may benefit from supportive options like marijuana rehab in Idaho.
Can You Get Addicted to Delta-9 THC?
Yes. According to research, approximately 30% of people who use marijuana develop some degree of marijuana use disorder. This risk increases for those who start using before age 18.
Not everyone who uses cannabis develops an addiction. But cannabis use can lead to physical dependency, interfere with mental health conditions, and complicate existing substance use.
It’s categorically false that it’s “impossible” to get addicted to marijuana. But the symptoms of cannabis addiction can present very differently than symptoms associated with other substances. Signs of cannabis addiction include:
- Spending a majority of the time procuring, using, and recovering from using weed
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms (such as cravings) when not using cannabis
- Disturbed sleep, notably lack of deep sleep
- Weight loss or gain
- Using cannabis products in increasingly dangerous situations, such as while driving or watching children
- Financial problems attributed to weed consumption
- Anxiety
- Memory problems
- Slowed reaction time
- Aggravation of the symptoms of mental health conditions
- Becoming defensive when people ask about their substance use
- Hiding consumption use from other people
- Anxiety
- Neglecting personal hygiene
- Not being able to stop using cannabis, even if the person wants to
- Continued consumption despite negative consequences
Depending on the severity and frequency of use, it may be totally possible for someone to stop using cannabis and work through withdrawals on their own. However, people who have a steady history of high-dose cannabis use may wish to undergo medical detox to avoid lasting physical effects of withdrawal. People with mental health conditions will want to prepare for the psychological effects of cannabis withdrawal, including the infamous “miseries.”
Receive Help for Cannabis Addiction at Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery
Understanding delta-9 THC’s legal status is just one piece of a larger picture. While hemp-derived products might be technically legal in many places, legality doesn’t equal safety or appropriateness for everyone.
At Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery, we’ve seen how cannabis use—whether legal or not—can become problematic. If you’re concerned about your own THC use or someone you care about, help is available. Our team understands the complexities of cannabis dependency and co-occurring mental health conditions. We offer comprehensive treatment programs designed specifically for men seeking recovery in a supportive, evidence-based environment.
We’re not here to judge your history with addictive substances. Our goal is to help you heal from addiction and build up a life that isn’t dependent on substances. Contact Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery to learn more about our treatment programs and how we can support your journey.
Clinical Director
Kendall Maloof is the clinical director at Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has held multiple leadership roles before settling here at Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery. Kendall received her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2016. Her career in mental and behavioral health began in 2014 when she took up internships in both the nonprofit and for profit sectors. She interned at multiple reputable companies, such as The Living Success Center and 449 Recovery in California.
In 2019, Kendall became the clinical director of Sunsets Recovery for Woman, a dual diagnosis program in southern California. Kendall is a natural leader. She has an incredible ability to problem solve and stay calm in any situation. Kendall never fails to show up when she is needed, and her calm demeanor makes her team and clients feel at ease. Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery is proud to have Kendall as our clinical director.
