THCV vs. Delta-9 THC: What’s the Difference?

They may both have “THC” in the name, but THCV and delta-9 THC have distinct differences that every user should be aware of. When you understand how these cannabinoids contrast, it becomes that much easier to pick out products that work well for you.

That’s why, today, we’re taking a closer look at both THCV and delta-9 THC to give you the distinct differences between these unique cannabinoids. 

Let’s get started by talking about what delta-9 THC is and why so many people turn to it when they need a bit of a pick-me-up. 

Table of Contents:

• Key Takeaways
• Why Choose Delta-9 THC?
• Delta-9 THC Origins
• Delta-9’s Psychoactive Properties
• Delta-9’s Non-Psychoactive Properties
• The Purpose of Taking Delta-9 THC
• Various Forms of Delta-9 Products
• Why Choose THCV?
• THCV Origin 
• THCV’s Psychoactive Properties
• THCV’s Non-Psychoactive Properties
• The Purpose of Taking THCV 
• THCV’s Legality
• Various Forms of THCV Products 
• Where the Buy the Best Delta-9 and THCV Online

Key Takeaways

• Distinct Properties of Delta-9 THC and THCV: The article highlights how delta-9 THC is known for its potent psychoactive effects, which may provide support, while THCV offers potential non-psychoactive benefits that don’t impair cognitive function, making it acceptable for daytime use.
• Cannabinoid Origins and Discovery: It details the discovery and synthesis of THC by Raphael Mechoulam in the 1960s and mentions the isolation of THCV from African sativa strains by Mechoulam’s team, providing historical context to the study and understanding of these cannabinoids.
• Legal Aspects and Accessibility: The blog post explains the current legal status of delta-9 THC and THCV in the U.S., noting that while delta-9 remains federally illegal, THCV products derived from hemp are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, highlighting the importance of checking state laws.
• Variety of Product Forms and Uses: It describes the various forms in which both delta-9 THC and THCV are available, such as flowers, gummies, and distillates, emphasizing their versatility and the different reasons people may choose to use these cannabinoids, from recreational to support.

Why Choose Delta-9 THC?

People choose to turn to delta 9 THC for various reasons, and it depends on the user themselves. However, many people love this cannabinoid for its uplifting, bright properties that can easily bring a smile—and probably a giggle—to their faces.

Delta-9 THC is a potent, psychoactive cannabinoid, so it’s great for those who are seeking a strong experience in their mind and body. But, of course, you have to be okay with getting high, as delta-9 THC is good for making you think like you’re on another planet.

If you’re choosing delta-9 THC, it’s because you enjoy the intoxicating experience alongside full-body support. It’s also a great choice if you live in a state that has legalized cannabis either medically or recreationally, as you have access to some of the best quality, most potent D9 products around. 

Delta-9 THC Origins

You may think that THC is a new cannabinoid given how much popularity it has gained over the past few years. However, the Father of Cannabis Raphael Mechoulam, discovered THC molecules all the way back in the 1960s.

Mechoulam first isolated CBD in 1963 and then THC a year later, in 1964. From there, his lab learned how to synthesize the cannabinoids, understanding more and more about what the compound had to offer. It was this discovery that gave chemists better insight into delta-9 THC, as well as other compounds like delta-8 and CBD.

Today, delta-9 THC may be illegal on the federal level, but the compound is permitted in states that have legalized cannabis either medically or recreationally. There have been attempts to change D9’s drug classification status to make studies and research more accessible, but currently, the cannabinoid is still illegal federally. 

Delta-9’s Psychoactive Properties

We mentioned that delta-9 THC is a psychoactive cannabinoid; well, it’s actually the most abundant psychoactive cannabinoid in the cannabis plant. Therefore, it has strong intoxicating properties that many users find appealing.

When you use delta-9 THC, there are various psychoactive properties that you may experience. Primarily, many people find that the cannabinoid makes them giggly and more positive overall. It’s common for users to burn and then feel potential effects that are common from the experience of the cannabinoid.

How long the psychoactive properties of delta-9 THC last greatly depends on the type of product you use. If you’re using cannabis flower, the effects of the D9 will last for about an hour or so before fading. But, if you use an edible, the THC will potentially affect you for anywhere from 4-8 hours.

If you aren’t interested in experience this from cannabis products, then delta-9 THC is not going to be the cannabinoid for you. People specifically seek out this cannabinoid because of its intoxicating experience, and it will definitely get you high. So, only use D9 if you’re okay with these and don’t have too much on your to-do list.

Delta-9’s Non-Psychoactive Properties

Though delta-9 THC is psychoactive, it also has plenty of non-psychoactive properties that people enjoy.

The supportive experience of delta-9 THC is going to depend heavily on the user and what the body requires. The compound works with the cannabinoid receptors in the body to regulate our systems in the ways that they need to, and this will differ from person to person. While someone may struggle with full-body discomfort, others may struggle to unwind. However, delta-9 THC may be able to do either or; it just simply depends on what you need most.

There are various medicinal properties of the cannabinoid that are worth looking into. However, we still need more studies, more research, and more clinical trials with delta-9 THC before we can make concrete conclusions about its non-psychoactive properties. 

The Purpose of Taking Delta-9 THC

People take delta-9 THC for so many different purposes, and that’s part of the beauty of the cannabinoid: it’s incredibly versatile.

Simply put, some people take delta-9 THC purely to get high. They enjoy the experience of the cannabinoid, whether this is lighter, more peaceful, or something entirely different. The psychoactive experience of delta-9 THC tends to be a strong draw for many users.

Other people enjoy taking delta-9 THC because it has distinct supportive properties and comes from a natural source. In a day and age where so many things are unnatural and chemical-filled, finding a plant-based option that helps you get back on track mentally can do wonders. Thus, this organic aspect tends to be a huge driving force behind taking delta-9 THC in the first place.

In general, you can turn to delta-9 for various purposes, and one of them isn’t better than the other. As long as the cannabinoid is doing something positive for you, that’s all that matters. Everyone uses the cannabinoid for a different reason, and each one of these reasons is just as valid as the next.

Various Forms of Delta-9 Products

Delta-9 THC is available in a variety of forms. This makes it wonderful for a wide variety of users, as you can enjoy the cannabinoid in practically any way that most appeals to you.

Delta-9 THC is commonly found in flower. You can find delta-9 flower, pre-rolls, blunts, moon rocks, and more at your local dispensary. These products come in all your favorite strains, no matter if you’re looking for an indica, sativa, or hybrid, you can find a D9 strain that’s perfect for you.

Along with flower, you can also purchase delta-9 gummies. Delta 9 gummies are great for users who want a potent, long-lasting experience but may not want to smoke to get it. While gummies take a while to kick in, they provide a long-lasting, full-body experience. Delta-9 gummies come in all different strengths, shapes, and flavors. (And if gummies aren’t your thing, you can find other edibles like Delta 9 caramels instead.)

Delta-9 distillate is another great product option for DIY users. With delta 9 distillate, you can add some to your favorite recipes for an infused creation or even fill your vape pen with it to puff on the concentrate when you’re out and about.

And that’s just the start! Delta-9 comes in so many forms — concentrates, topicals, tinctures, and more. No matter what you prefer, your ideal product is out there for you. 

Why Choose THCV?

Now that we’ve talked a bit about delta-9 THC, let’s move on to THCV. So, why would people choose to try THCV in the first place?

THCV is a minor cannabinoid that presents a strong, supportive experience. In small amounts, the cannabinoid isn’t psychoactive and won’t get you high; however, in high amount it may present a similar experience to THC.

Because of the lack of psychoactive results in typical amounts, people like to turn to THCV because it gives an experience without altering the mind. You can use small amount of THCV and continue on with your day, as you won’t get the potential effects associated with THC. It’s a great option for giving you support in your life without affecting your mind.

THCV is also more widely accessible than delta-9 THC, as it isn’t federally illegal. We will talk about it more later, but THCV is federally legal in the US, so you can buy THCV products online and ship them right to your door—you can’t say the same about all delta-9 products. 

THCV Origin 

It is unclear where THCV came from, but according to their studies, it was likely discovered in the early 1970s by a scientist by the name of F.W. Merkus. However, little is known about Merkus’s processes.

Only a few years later, Raphael Mechoulam and his team of chemists learned how to successfully isolate the THCV compound from African sativa strains. Today, African sativas are going to have a higher amount of THCV than any other strain, so Mechoulam was onto something here.

In their research, Mechoulam and his team found that THCV’s structure is very similar to THC’s, suggesting that its experience may also be similar.

Today, THCV may be considered a rare cannabinoid, but there have been various studies conducted to help us better understand the supportive experience of this unique compound. 

THCV’s Psychoactive Properties

As we mentioned, THCV and delta-9 THC share a similar chemical composition. With this also comes the ability for the cannabinoid to produce psychoactive properties.

However, it’s important to note that THCV’s psychoactive properties are mild and will only present themselves in high amounts. If you take a low to mild amount of THCV, then you aren’t going to experience any psychoactive properties. Instead, you’re just going to pick up on the potential supportive results.

But if you do happen to take a very high amount of THCV and get high, you’re likely going to experience something similar to a mild hit of THC. However, high hits of THCV may also cause potential adverse effects, so it’s important to use responsibly and avoid taking high amounts of this cannabinoid.

If you’re looking to get high, simply seek a different cannabinoid like delta-9 THC.

THCV’s Non-Psychoactive Properties

More than anything, THCV is known for its non-psychoactive properties. This cannabinoid appears to have strong therapeutic applications that vary from person to person.

Studies show that THCV may be valuable for those struggling with their control of the munchies. It also shows potential for those who have certain issues of various kinds. This is not certain, and much more research is required.

There are numerous studies looking into the impact of THCV that demonstrate the positive experience it can have on the mind and body. You can learn more about the cannabinoid’s  potential benefits by clicking here.  

The Purpose of Taking THCV 

Just like delta-9 THC, the purpose of taking THCV is going to vary from person to person. Many people take THCV because they enjoy the therapeutic attributes that the cannabinoid brings, without getting stoned. You don’t have to worry about feeling high after taking a THCV gummy; instead, you just let the cannabinoid do its thing and go about your day.

People turn to THCV for many different reasons, mainly ones relating to natural support. THCV is another organic, naturally occurring compound, and that is appealing in and of itself for many.

Essentially, you can take THCV for whatever reason you please; just keep in mind that the cannabinoid is not psychoactive in low to mild amounts.

THCV’s Legality

Under the 2018 Farm Bill, THCV is legal, unlike delta 9 THC. Hemp and hemp-derived products that contain less than 0.3% THC are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. Thus, THCV products that come from hemp and follow these THC guidelines are 100% legal federally. It is possible to order THCV products online and have them delivered to your home.

Unfortunately, some states have curated their own regulations surrounding THC and THC variants, including THCV. Ensure that THCV is legal in your area before making a purchase.

Related Article: THCV: Where is it Legal? State-by-State List

Various Forms of THCV Products 

If you’re interested in THCV products, you have a lot to choose from. Although this cannabinoid is minor, there are plenty of options to choose from.

At ATLRx, you can shop through our great selection of THCV gummies, products that are great for anyone with a bit of a sweet tooth. THCV gummies are easy to use, produce a potent experience, and give you something to look forward to when it comes time to munch.

Along with THCV gummies, you can also buy things like THCV distillate or THCV isolate if you’re looking for the purest, most potent options. With THCV distillate, you can use it to make your own edibles or fill up your favorite vape pen. Isolates are great for dabbing or adding to your flower.

Pre-rolls are also an option if you want to try THCV flower. THCV-rich flower isn’t always easy to come by, but there are plenty of strains out there. If you want some high-THCV flower, search for African sativa strains: these tend to have the highest levels. 

Where the Buy the Best Delta-9 and THCV Online

Whether you’re looking for delta-9 or THCV products, ATLRx has the best online selection for you to choose from.

From delta-9 distillate to THCV gummies and everything in between, our online store is your one-stop shop for all things cannabinoids. ATLRx offers only the highest quality products at the most affordable prices, so everyone has access to the cannabinoids they need. 

THCV, delta-9, or another cannabinoid entirely, ATLRx and our online selection are here to give you the products you’ve been searching for.

Related Articles:

• Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 vs. Delta-10: Differences and Similarities
• Difference Between Delta 8 THC And Delta 9 THC
• CBD vs. Delta 9 THC: What is the Difference?
• HHC vs. Delta-9 and Delta-8 THC: What Are the Differences?
• The Complete Guide on Delta 9 THC