Most cannabis and hemp users understand the importance of THC in their decision-making when buying products. It’s the active ingredient that determines the “buzz” (as opposed to CBD which has a more calming effect on the nervous system).
But the delta 9 (or D9) concept adds an extra layer of complexity. It’s a specific type of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) that varies in concentration across cannabis strains.
This guide aims to help you dial in your Delta 9 concentrate. We look at how you can determine what’s a good starting point for you and the possible benefits you could experience if you start using it. Then we explore the side effects some people experience and how to adjust your dosage to your needs.
Here’s everything you need to know:
What Is Delta 9?
Delta 9 is a form of THC found in cannabis plants. The full name is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, a chemical name for its molecular structure. Other forms include delta-8 and delta-10.
The delta-9 form of THC is the most common and makes up the bulk of the concentration in most cannabis plants. The other THC types look similar under chemical analysis but have different effects on the body.
Delta-9 THC is the most studied form of the molecule (because it is the most common). Because of this, we know a bit about it, including how it affects people.
What Does Delta-9 THC Do To The Body?
Delta-9 THC has many of the familiar effects we associate with THC in general. Most people feel a euphoria after taking it.
If you consume cannabis products containing delta-9 THC, you may experience more focus and relaxation. There’s also a chance of feeling giddy and seeing time differently because THC adjusts how chemical messengers get sent into the brain, producing an altered conscious state.
Many people experience these effects as positive (which is why they consume cannabis). However, delta-9 THC can have some negative impacts on users including dry mouth and rapid heart rate. Therefore, assessing your tolerance levels and determining your concentration properly is critical.
Understanding Delta-9 THC Concentration
Natural cannabis contains delta-9 THC in ample concentrations. However, refined and manufactured products can vary their amounts significantly. Some contain none at all, while others have artificially high levels.
Most products specify delta-9 concentration as a percentage of the product’s dry weight. For example, you might see a product that contains “2% delta-9 THC,” meaning every 100 grams of cannabis has 2 grams of the compound.
You also see brands quoting the milligram concentration of delta-9 THC. For example, you might see something like “1.5mg D9 THC per serving” where a serving might be a drop from a tincture dropper or a single gummy.
Generally, measurements in milligrams per dose are more helpful because it is straightforward to measure how much you are taking. Percentage indicators are more challenging because they require measuring servings using a weighing scale.
What Factors Affect Delta-9 THC Concentration?
The amount of Delta-9 THC in cannabis products can vary significantly between plants. Some crops contain an abundance of the cannabinoid, while others have little.
The primary factor affecting these concentrations is the cannabis plant strain. Indica-dominant strains have the most, followed by the others.
Decarboxylation – a process that removes the carboxyl group from raw THCA– can also affect concentrations. If processors heat products, that can raise the levels of THC by turning non-psychoactive compounds into psychoactive ones.
Lastly, growing conditions can impact Delta-9 THC concentration. Some producers expose cannabis plants to intense sunlight during the flowering phase which is shown to increase the percentage of active ingredients in some lines.
Delta-9 THC Concentration Levels
The concentration of delta-9 THC in products can vary significantly. So what constitutes a low, medium, or high dose?
Low Dose: Under 5mg
Experts consider low doses to be under 5 mg per session. Small quantities are enough to provide mild effects including stress relief and maybe an element of euphoria.
Most edibles contain dosages in the 1 to 2 mg range. Therefore, you can adjust the amount you consume carefully (often in 1 mg chunks).
If you are just starting, stick to 1 mg and see how it goes. Don’t assume nothing is happening, even if you don’t feel anything immediately. Instead, wait and experiment over a few sessions to see if you can detect any difference.
Extremely low amounts, like 1 mg, can still improve mood and focus, even if you don’t experience any euphoria. (Remember, you don’t have to be high to benefit from cannabis products).
Moderate Dose: Between 5 and 10 mg
Experts consider moderate doses to be between 5 and 10mg. If you consume quantities in this range, the effects will be more intense.
For example, many users benefit from increased creativity. Taking more delta-9-THC lets them write, learn, develop new business ideas, and paint with less resistance.
You may also experience increased sensory perception – one of the main reasons people used cannabis historically. Changes in consciousness can sometimes deliver new spiritual insights and feelings of euphoria.
Forgetting about your pain can also be a happy side effect. The change in your brain chemistry may be so profound that discomfort disappears.
Lastly, moderate dosages of delta-9 THC are where most people see an uptick in their appetite. You may get the munchies after a higher dose and want to raid the refrigerator or order pizza.
High Dose: 10mg Or More
High doses of 10mg or more are available in some products. However, the effects can be strong, and sometimes overwhelming.
For this reason, always listen to your body and follow guidelines on packaging (if there are any). Don’t start with a high dose until you’ve built up tolerance, and avoid consuming large quantities (especially edibles). If you get hungry, try alternatives.
Most tinctures, concentrates, and edibles will tell you the milligram dosage on the packet or in the instructions. Use this information to calibrate how much you take and keep track.
Some brands don’t list their concentrations accurately (because they use poor assay techniques). As such, it is also a good idea for beginners to err on the side of caution, taking a lower dose than otherwise.
What Happens If You Take Too Much Delta-9 THC?
If you take too much delta-9 THC, you will notice the effects quickly. In the short term, you will likely feel a sense of dizziness and lightheadedness. It could be more challenging to orientate yourself in the room or stand straight. At the same time, you may start feeling confused. You might forget things people have just said to you or feel “spaced out,” unable to concentrate on what’s happening around you.
Therefore, always approach delta-9 THC usage slowly. Don’t take higher doses if you aren’t prepared for the consequences.
How To Choose The Right Delta-9 THC Dose For You
So, given this dosage analysis, how can you choose the right concentration for you?
Consider Your Experience Level
If you are new to delta-9 THC or cannabis, go slow. Start with a small dose and work up from there (if needed). Look for THC concentrations in the 1-5mg range.
If you are more experienced, you can try a broader range of dosages. Going higher or lower could help you achieve balance for better results.
Consider The Effect You Want
You should also consider the effect you want – i.e. what the delta-9 THC will do to you.
Relaxation and stress relief usually occur with low dosages under 5mg.
Pain relief may occur in the 2.5-7.5mg range for most users. Again, you’ll need to adjust and experiment until you find a level that’s suitable for you.
Those aiming for a euphoric effect usually consume 10mg or more.
If you have a medical condition and want to use cannabis, talk to your medical provider. Remember that individual tolerances can vary and the impact you experience from a specific dose may be vastly different from another person.
Wrapping Up
So there you have it – now you should know how much D9 THC to use when consuming cannabis products. The general advice is to go slow until you have more experience and know the effects.