What is Delta 6 THC? Here’s What We Currently Know

What is Delta-6 THC?

Delta-6 THC is a little-known, barely studied minor cannabinoid (even compared to other minor cannabinoids like Delta-11) that occurs naturally in trace amounts in cannabis and hemp plants. It is technically a THC isomer, having the same molecular formula as Delta-9 THC but with a slightly different atomic structure.

Just like other THC isomers, including Delta-8, 10, and 11, this seemingly tiny difference in molecular structure changes how Delta-6 interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), likely resulting in effects that differ from the more potent psychoactivity of Delta-9 THC.

Delta-6 THC has been known as a phytocannabinoid for at least a few decades but has largely been ignored until very recently due to the difficulty in extracting enough of it from plants. This difficulty possibly meant that it didn’t make commercial sense to use it in THC products.

Delta-6 THC, being a minor cannabinoid, is only found in trace amounts in cannabis and hemp plants. Just like most of the other 100 or more minor cannabinoids, to be commercially viable, larger amounts have to be synthesized from hemp-derived CBD in a lab.

Will Delta-6 THC Get You High?

So little research has been carried out into the psychoactive effects of Delta-6 THC that it is almost impossible, at this point, to definitively state whether it will get you high, and how high it might get you. Even anecdotal evidence from users is sparse or unreliable because even where Delta 6 is included in consumer products, it’s invariably mixed with other cannabinoids like THCa or Delta-8 THC.

It is very unlikely that Delta-6 THC will produce the sort of psychoactive effects users of Delta-9 THC often experience. Users have described the effects of Delta-6 THC as lightly euphoric, uplifting, and sometimes creatively stimulating, offering a clear-headed experience that can be helpful in social settings or creative pursuits.

How the effects of Delta-6 THC compare to other common THC variants:

Delta-8 THC: Provides a calming effect that is less intense and often said to be more manageable for users sensitive to THC. Effects may be less pronounced than those of Delta-6 THC.

Delta-9 THC: Known for its strong psychoactive effects that can lead to intense highs, but can also lead to feelings of anxiety or paranoia. Effects are likely to be much more pronounced than those of Delta-6 THC.

Delta-10 THC: Said to be mellow but energizing, with some users reporting a mild euphoric feeling. Effects may be less pronounced than those of Delta-6 THC.

Delta-11 THC: Based on anecdotal evidence from users, Delta-11 provides a mild boost in energy, mood, and creative thinking. Effects may be similar to those of Delta-6 THC.

Potential Therapeutic Effects of Delta-6 THC

While the total number of studies done on Delta-6 THC could probably be counted on one hand, evidence from studies of similar minor cannabinoids suggests that it may have therapeutic benefits.

It’s thought that Delta-6 THC interacts with both CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, like other THC isomers. CB1 receptors are located in the brain and are associated with the psychoactive effects of THC, while CB2 receptors, mainly in immune tissues, are known to contribute to anti-inflammatory effects.

This assumption is perhaps not unexpected because several other THC isomers can produce the same or very similar effects. Much more study is needed before these effects are fully understood in human users, yet this seems to be more evidence to support the idea that THC isomers are useful for much more than just getting high.

It is worth noting that many of the academic studies seemingly into the effects (both psychoactive and therapeutic) of Delta-6 THC are actually studies of Delta-8 THC. That is true for almost every study conducted before the late 1980s when naming conventions for cannabinoids meant that it changed. Almost overnight, what was known as Delta 6-tetrahydrocannabinol became Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol and remains so today. The Delta-6 THC we are discussing here is not the same substance studied in the 1970s and 1980s.

Known Risks and Side Effects of Delta-6 THC

Although no naturally occurring cannabinoids in hemp are thought to be toxic to humans, mild and short-lived side effects are still possible. These side effects, typically associated with cannabinoids in general, may include:

• Dry mouth
• Dry eyes
• Reduced blood pressure
• Increased appetite
• Grogginess or drowsiness
• Paranoia or anxiety
• Confusion

While Delta-6 THC’s specific side effects are not fully understood, it’s reasonable to assume it may cause some of these effects, as they are fairly common across most cannabinoids. The potential for experiencing these side effects largely depends on the dose taken and a user’s tolerance to THC.

Is Delta 6 THC Illegal?

The sale and use of Delta-6 THC are in a legal gray area similar to other minor cannabinoids like Delta 10 and Delta 11. In the United States, Delta-6 THC derived from hemp is federally legal under the rules brought in by the 2018 Farm Bill. However, individual states have retained the right to impose their own restrictions and often categorize them alongside synthetic cannabinoids due to their lab-based production processes.

Delta-6 THC’s legal status therefore varies by state, and you should ensure you are aware of local laws and restrictions before purchasing or using Delta-6 THC products.

The sale and use of Delta-6 THC are likely to be illegal in the following U.S. states:

• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Delaware
• Idaho
• Iowa
• Mississippi
• Montana
• New York
• North Dakota
• Rhode Island
• Utah
• Vermont
• Washington

Will Delta-6 THC Show Up During a Drug Test?

Because Delta-6 is chemically similar to Delta-9 THC, it is quite likely that it will show up in any drug test that targets these types of cannabinoids. How long it remains detectable depends largely on the dose and the type of drug test being carried out. Cannabis and THC commonly remain detectable in:

• Urine: Up to 30 days after the last use.
• Blood: Up to 12 hours (single use), and up to 30 days (regular use).
• Saliva: Up to 24 hours (single use), and up to 72 hours (regular use).
• Hair Follicles: Up to 90 days after the last use.

THC isomers in your system can cause a positive drug test for cannabis, even if you don’t use traditional cannabis products. If you know you’ll be tested for cannabis, it’s best to avoid using THC altogether.

What Delta-6 THC Products Are Available?

As explained above, Delta-6 THC is not properly understood and as such is barely used in consumer THC products. However, a few brands have begun to use this cannabinoid and it is possible to find it in several forms if you look hard enough:

• Edibles: Infused gummies and chocolates are discreet and offer a longer-lasting effect.
• Tinctures: Taken under the tongue or added to food, tinctures provide fast-acting and precise dosing.
• Vapes: A popular option for their rapid effects, though consumers should prioritize quality to avoid harmful additives.
• Capsules: Convenient and pre-measured, THC capsules provide consistency for those seeking a controlled dose.
• Topicals: Creams and balms, which offer localized relief without psychoactive effects, are ideal for targeted discomfort.

The Bottom Line

Delta-6 THC is a little-known minor cannabinoid, one that shares a lot of characteristics with better-understood examples like Delta-8 THC.

As interest grows, the development of new products and more detailed research into its effects will continue to shape Delta-6’s place in the market.

Whether for recreational enjoyment, therapeutic use, or simply an alternative to Delta-8 or Delta-9, Delta-6 THC could be poised to make a lasting impact on the evolving world of cannabinoids.