Understanding Delta-9 Distillate: Cannabis vs. Hemp

Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, can be derived from both cannabis and hemp plants. Despite their similar chemical structures, the processes for extracting and producing Delta-9 distillate from these plants differ, leading to varying end products. This article explores how Delta-9 distillate is made, the differences between cannabis-derived and hemp-derived distillates, and the processes used to produce large quantities of distillate.

The Process of Making Delta-9 Distillate

Both cannabis and hemp contain Delta-9 THC in small amounts. The process of converting these plants into Delta-9 distillate involves several steps:

1. Extraction: The first step is to extract the raw cannabinoids from the plant material. This is typically done using solvents like ethanol or CO2, which pull the cannabinoids and other compounds from the plant.

   
   

2. Winterization: The crude extract is then subjected to winterization, a process that removes fats, waxes, and lipids by mixing the extract with ethanol and freezing it. This step ensures a purer end product.

   
   

3. Decarboxylation: The winterized extract undergoes decarboxylation, a process that activates the THC by applying heat, converting THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) into Delta-9 THC.

   
   

4. Distillation: The final step is distillation, where the extract is heated and the Delta-9 THC is separated from other compounds based on their boiling points. This process can be repeated multiple times to achieve a high-purity distillate.

Cannabis-Derived vs. Hemp-Derived Delta-9 Distillate

The main difference between cannabis-derived and hemp-derived Delta-9 distillate lies in their source material and legal status:

• Cannabis-Derived Delta-9 Distillate: Extracted from cannabis plants that typically have higher THC concentrations. This type of distillate is often considered to have a more robust cannabinoid profile, including terpenes and other cannabinoids, which can contribute to the entourage effect. However, cannabis-derived Delta-9 distillate is subject to stricter regulations and is illegal in many places without a prescription or special license.

• Hemp-Derived Delta-9 Distillate: Extracted from hemp plants, which are legally defined as having less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. Producers often convert CBD (cannabidiol) from hemp into Delta-9 THC through chemical processes. This type of distillate is legal under federal law in the U.S. as long as it adheres to the THC limit, but it may lack some of the additional cannabinoids and terpenes found in the highest quality cannabis-derived distillate.

Producing Large Quantities of Distillate

Producing liters of Delta-9 distillate from fields of hemp and outdoor cannabis involves large-scale agricultural and industrial processes:

1. Cultivation: Large fields of hemp or cannabis are cultivated, often using strains specifically bred for high cannabinoid content.

   
   

2. Harvesting and Processing: The plants are harvested and processed to remove the flowers and trim, which contain the highest concentrations of cannabinoids.

   
   

3. Bulk Extraction: Industrial-scale extraction equipment is used to process large quantities of plant material, efficiently pulling the raw cannabinoids from the biomass.

   
   

4. Refinement and Distillation: The crude extract is refined and distilled in large batches, using advanced distillation equipment capable of processing significant volumes to produce high-purity distillate.

Is All Delta-9 Distillate the Same?

While Delta-9 distillate from different sources may have the same primary active THC ingredient, the overall composition and quality can vary:

• Purity: High-quality distillates will have fewer impurities and higher concentrations of Delta-9 THC.

• Cannabinoid Profile: Distillates may contain varying levels of other cannabinoids, which can affect the overall effects and benefits.

• Terpene Content: The presence or absence of terpenes, which contribute to the flavor and potential therapeutic effects, can differ between products.

While Delta-9 distillate from hemp and cannabis may seem similar, the source material, extraction processes, and resulting product quality can vary significantly. Understanding these differences can help consumers make informed choices based on their preferences and legal considerations.

“There is a myth that marijuana is relatively safe and that expanding legal access to it would not significantly harm public health,” Hilgers said. “Nothing could be further from the truth.” - Mike Hilgers, Nebraska Attorney General

“Arizona law does not permit the sale of delta-8 and other hemp-synthesized intoxicants [including delta-10] by entities that have not been licensed by Health Services.” - Kris Mayes, Arizona Attorney General

Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers and Arizona AG Kris Mayes are targeting several vape shops over the sale of Delta-8 products, citing concerns over their potential health risks and regulatory loopholes. Hilgers has focused on closing legal gaps around Delta-8 THC, arguing that the products are often mislabeled, deceptively advertised, and possibly contaminated. This regulatory push has resulted in settlements where shop owners agreed to stop selling THC-containing hemp products. Hemp derived Delta products have not been introduced due to this regulatory stance. The Attorney General statements have made it clear that hemp derived products are only legal if purchased through a state licensed medical or recreational dispensary.

Understanding the Transformation: CBD to Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC

As states like Nebraska intensify their legal battles against Delta-8, it's crucial to understand the science behind production of the cannabinoids and why it’s often labeled as synthetic.

Delta-8, much like Delta-9 THC, is typically synthesized from cannabidiol (CBD), which is abundantly found in hemp. The process involves converting CBD into Delta-8 THC through a chemical reaction. This is usually achieved by dissolving CBD isolate in an organic solvent and then applying an acid catalyst to facilitate the conversion. The mixture is then neutralized, purified, and distilled to obtain Delta-8 THC. This process can also be used to produce Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive component in cannabis, although it is usually more regulated.

Despite the scientific validity of this conversion process, regulatory bodies and law enforcement in several states label these products as synthetic. This classification stems from the fact that the Delta-8 THC produced through this method does not naturally occur in significant amounts in hemp plants. The legal contention largely revolves around the interpretation of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and its derivatives but left a gray area regarding chemically altered cannabinoids.

States like Nebraska and Arizona argue that the potential health risks, including the use of harmful solvents and the lack of thorough regulation, pose significant dangers. They point to adverse event reports, such as cases of anxiety and vomiting, to justify their stringent actions against these products. 

Proponents of Hemp argue that it offers a legal alternative to Delta-9 THC with similar therapeutic benefits but milder psychoactive effects. This debate continues as businesses and consumers navigate the complex legal landscape, seeking clarity and fair regulation.