Just a few years ago, the only cannabis-based compound any of us knew (or cared) about was THC. Then, the industry introduced us to CBD, and it’s never been the same since.
In the time since CBD’s mass appeal started to pick up, we’ve also witnessed the emergence of delta-8 THC, which was big news for anyone who didn’t know that there’s more than one type of THC.
And it’s enough to beg the question: what could we possibly do to shake up the cannabis world even more?
Simple: add delta-10 THC.
Delta-10 THC is mild like delta-8, but generally considered to be uplifting and stimulating, while providing a gentle sense of focus. And also like delta-8, delta-10 THC has fit into a legal gray area within the country’s cannabis laws.
But as a cannabinoid that’s still extremely new on the market, delta-10 has raised some concern in individuals, especially when it comes to side effects.
Join us as we discuss the potential side effects of delta-10 THC: what we know, and what we don’t.
What is Delta-10?
Similar to delta-8, delta-10 is an isomer of THC. Delta-8, delta-9 and delta-10 all have the same compounds as each other, but in different arrangements. This slight variation in structure causes each isomer to produce an effect that’s unique enough to create some distinction, while still sharing plenty of similarities.
While delta-10 isn’t a cannabinoid that’s been talked about much until recently, it’s found naturally occurring in cannabis along with delta-8 and delta-9. However, these amounts tend to be quite low in hemp.
Because of these low levels, delta-10 THC is typically produced through a conversion process known as isomerization.
Typically, the isomerization process starts with dissolving CBD in a nonpolar solvent. Then, an acid is incorporated into the solution, and it’s continually stirred for 18 hours at a consistent temperature of 212 degrees fahrenheit.
From here, the CBD can convert through dozens of different cannabinoids, and any of them can convert the CBD into delta-8, with varying results depending on the formula.
Once the conversion is finished, the solution is washed and neutralized, typically with a sodium bicarbonate solution.
Then, the most critical phase is conducted: testing. With high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), the solution is separated so that the delta-8 is extracted from the matter, before it undergoes testing to confirm its purity.
It’s worth noting here, though, that conversion is never 100 percent, and there is always going to be some varying level of byproducts, but at JustCBD, we have some of the purest batches of delta-8 on the market, and offer our lab reports for ready viewing online.
Delta-10 vs Delta-8
Delta 8 THC and Delta 10 THC have both been known to create a high that’s mild, mellow and relaxing, and their psychoactive effects aren’t as intense as those of other cannabinoids. And depending on the individual, delta-10 is popular for both medicinal and recreational use.
Delta 10 THC has also been found to be noticeably less potent than the delta-8, while still providing users with that psychoactive quality you might be familiar with through marijuana.
Additionally, delta-10 doesn’t stay in the body as long as delta-8, and this is related to CBN content. CBN has been shown to produce a sedative effect that’s quite potent compared to other cannabinoids, and it can help promote relaxation and fight pain, hence its popularity for medicinal usage. And while delta-8 THC releases at a slower rate, it also stays in the body for a longer period of time.
What Are the Effects of Delta-10?
As a form of THC, delta-10 THC has the potential to make users high, and according to users, the high created by delta-10 is said to involve less of a body high compared to delta-8, and rather more of a buzzy, cerebral high.
It’s also worth noting that delta-10 tends to have a weaker ability to bind to CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, hence milder effects.
Delta-10 has also been noted by users for creating a high that’s energizing and uplifting, which has often led to its comparison to sativa strains in cannabis, though with fewer side effects linked to anxiety.
Can Delta-10 Cause Seizures?
There’s particularly been some controversy with THC in the realm of seizures; while the CBD pharmaceutical Epidiolex has been approved by the FDA as an anti-seizure medication, THC has raised concerns for causing seizures. For instance, one study observed that marijuana may ease seizures, but it may also worsen the aftereffects by causing oxygen deprivation in the brain.
However, such studies have mainly focused on delta-9 THC, and so it’s unclear whether delta-10 will have similar effects. Additionally, there are conflicting studies suggesting that cannabis may actually help with seizures, with a handful of trials that have been conducted since around 1970.
However, there have been a handful of studies conducted in the U.S. since 1970. Other studies, even some ongoing, have been done around the world, and otherwise, no cases of seizures induced by delta-10 have been reported.
Can Delta-10 Give You Anxiety?
Delta-10 THC has garnered a bit of a reputation for encouraging relaxation, and isn’t as known for creating the same anxiety or paranoia as its THC sibling delta-9, making it an excellent choice for calming down anxiety without increasing drowsiness.
But can delta-10 cause anxiety?
As with other types of THC, delta-10 has the potential to trigger side effects of anxiety, although this appears to be less prevalent with delta-8 and delta-10.
Still, delta-10 THC can produce that euphoric rush we know from THC, though it’s far less sedative or potent than your typical delta-9 THC. Still, further research is needed on these isomers, and everybody’s unique ECS and metabolisms produce varying results with use.
It’s also imperative that users stick with high-quality, third-party tested delta-10 THC products. Some companies in the industry will happily sell you low-quality or low-potency delta-10 THC products for a quick cash grab, and since the FDA does not regulate the compound, due diligence on the customer’s part is necessary.
Finally, it’s important to remember that, as with delta-8 THC products, delta-10 THC products are converted from CBD rather than directly sourced from cannabis, and while this is not a definitive cause of harm or concern, it is encouraged to proceed with caution when using synthetic versions of cannabinoids, at least until further research has been done, and its potential adverse effects are fully understood.
Will Delta-10 Make You Fail a Drug Test?
Similar to delta-8 and delta-9, the use of delta-10 may cause you to fail a drug test.
With that in mind, it’s worth noting that drug tests will only determine whether THC metabolites are present in the body, and because these metabolites can occur from the consumption of delta-8, delta-9, or delta-10, any type of THC will cause users to fail a drug test.
Can Delta-10 Make You Sick?
Even with potential adverse side effects like anxiety and lethargy, THC is generally well-tolerated in consumers. And since delta-10 is far more mild than delta-9, users can expect a much milder version of the typical array of side effects, including dry mouth, increased appetite, psychoactivity, and red eyes.
Final Thoughts
At this point, we would normally take this opportunity to discuss some of the studies surrounding the potential side effects of delta-10 products. However, delta-10 is so new at this point that the studies are highly limited.
Keep in mind, however, that delta-10 can be converted into a match for the original delta-10 without creating any kind of toxic residue.
All of that is to say that delta-10 is new, and therefore, the research around its side effects is lacking. Presently, the information we have on hand about delta-10’s side effects are purely anecdotal, coming from the few consumers who have had the opportunity to try it.
The point is that delta 10 is new, and therefore, there has not yet been any true research pertaining to its properties or effects.
Barbara is a freelance writer and a sex and relationships adviser at Dimepiece LA and Peaches and Screams. Barbara is involved in various educational initiatives aimed at making sex advice more accessible to everyone and breaking stigmas around sex across various cultural communities. In her spare time, Barbara enjoys trawling through vintage markets in Brick Lane, exploring new places, painting and reading.
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