When you think you’ve heard all about cannabinoids, more pop up. Scientists reckon there are over 100 cannabinoids in cannabis. Most people can only name a handful, so clearly, there’s lots of ground to cover.
The first cannabinoid most cannabis users likely learn about is Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (also known as just THC). This is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for the famous “high.” But the ‘Delta’ family is larger than you might have thought. From the [in]famous Delta-9 to the “nicer cousin” Delta-8, two new members, Delta-10 and 11, have been getting lots of attention lately.
Like other cannabinoids, Delta-10 and 11 may have unique beneficial qualities. So, in this article, we explore the unknown worlds of these two cannabinoids.
While we don’t carry any Delta-11 products, we do have a stellar selection of vapes and gummies with Delta-10. Check them out below!
Key Takeaways
- Delta-10 and Delta-11 are rare cannabinoids found in trace amounts in cannabis and hemp plants.
- It is unclear if they are naturally synthesized in cannabis or are by-products of degradation processes.
- Delta-10 is roughly 30-40% as potent as Delta-9, while Delta-11 displays ¼ the potency of Delta-9.
What Is Delta-11?
Delta-11 is a “THC” compound found in trace amounts in cannabis. It is so rare that it’s sometimes confused with other THC cannabinoids. However, Delta-11 is a different compound altogether.
Due to its rarity, Delta-11 is synthesized from Delta-8 THC, another THC compound you’ve probably heard quite a bit about. In fact, in some publications, Delta-11 is mistaken for Delta-8, but nothing can be further from the truth.
Being a ‘THC,’ Delta-11 is undoubtedly psychoactive, but its potency relative to Delta-9 THC is lower. An animal study showed it is roughly ¼ as potent as Delta-9. In the study, it was shown incapable of attenuating the effects of Delta-9 THC, leading to suggestions Delta-9 binds more strongly to THC receptor sites.
Its pharmacological activity is unknown due to the scarcity of research about it. However, it is suspected to produce THC-like effects on the mind and body. But seeing as it is less potent than Delta-9, these effects may not be intense. This could appeal to users who want “mellowed down” THC-like effects.
There is a common misperception that Delta-11 is the same as 11-hydroxy THC. This is not the case. 11-hydroxy THC is a metabolite produced when Delta-9 is broken down in the liver. This metabolite is thought to be more psychoactive than Delta-9, which explains why some blogs suggest Delta-11 is more potent than Delta-9! By existing scientific accounts, it is not.
What Is Delta-10?
Like Delta-11, Delta-10 is another elusive cannabinoid. It is found in cannabis, but whether it is naturally synthesized or a by-product of degradation remains unclear. It mostly exists as an impurity during the synthesis of Delta-8 from cannabidiol (CBD).
Delta-10 is considered 30-40% as potent as Delta-9, which makes it quite similar to Delta-8. Its effects on the body are unknown, but we suspect it may produce varying levels of psychoactivity.
What Is The Main Difference Between Delta-11 vs. Delta-10?
There is little research on these two THC compounds, so much of the information you find online is conjecture. That said, the primary difference between Delta-11 and Delta-10 is the position of a double bond in their cyclic chains.
As their names suggest, this bond is situated at the 11th carbon in Delta-11 and the 10th carbon in Delta-10. For this reason, all THC compounds are regarded as ‘positional isomers’ of Delta-9 THC.
The other major difference is how Delta-11 vs. Delta-10 are synthesized. Delta-11 can be made from Delta-8 THC via several routes [1, 2, 3]. On the other hand, Delta-10 is mainly synthesized from Delta-8 but can also be directly synthesized from Delta-9.
Delta-11 vs. Delta-10, What Are The Similarities?
One unmissable aspect of Delta-11 and Delta-10 is that they are extremely rare. It is unclear if they naturally exist in cannabis or are by-products of other processes.
However, one thing you can be sure of is that both cannabinoids are psychoactive. Their potency levels vary, with Delta-10 seemingly the more potent.
Both compounds can be synthesized from the same precursor, i.e., Delta-8 THC. This is possible because “tetrahydrocannabinols” have a similar molecular formula – C21H30O2. So, scientists alter the position of bonds and atoms to create different compounds.
Most rare/trace cannabinoids are artificially synthesized. Their occurrence in such low quantities makes extraction cost prohibitive. So, if manufacturers are to reap from the ongoing cannabinoids craze, they have to synthesize.
However, before taking hemp products containing artificial cannabinoids, you might want to acquaint yourself with the Controlled Substance Analogue Enforcement Act of 1986. This law outlines the conditions under which artificially synthesized cannabinoids may or may not meet the qualifying criteria for human consumption.
Basically, this law states that any chemical substantially similar to a controlled substance (listed as Schedule I or II) is treated as if it were the controlled substance. This law aims to prevent the proliferation of intoxicating substances sold as hemp products.
What About Delta-8 vs. 10 vs. 11?
Delta-8 is more common than either Delta-10 or 11. It is a popular ingredient in many hemp products owing to its indica-like effects. It produces THC-like effects but dialed down. As such, Delta-8 has become a true fan favorite among cannabis users who want the benefits of THC without the side effects.
In terms of potency, Delta-8 appears to have more or less the same potency as Delta-10. Delta-11 is the least potent at ¼ the potency of Delta-9. Besides Delta-8’s pharmacological effects, we can’t say much about Delta-10 and 11 for obvious reasons.
Be that as it may, they are psychoactive, which means there is a good chance they can produce mental and physical effects in varying degrees.
Check out the differences between HHC and Delta-8 on our blog.
Want to try Delta-8? Check out what we’ve got!
Which Is Stronger, Delta-10 Or Delta-11?
Even though the potencies of Delta-10 and 11 are not entirely known, they are not as strong as Delta-9 THC. So, we expect their effects to be milder compared to Delta-9.
If we are to rank these three cannabinoids, Delta-11 would be the least strong, followed by Delta-10, then Delta-8. But overall, users of these cannabinoids love them for their mellow effects. Like Delta-9, these others can induce euphoria, relaxation, and calming effects without the adverse effects of Delta-9 THC, like anxiety, confusion, and the like.
But as is usually the case, the beauty of cannabinoids is not that some are stronger than others. It is that they synergize to enhance each other’s positive effects, otherwise known as the “entourage effect.” This results in a more holistic outcome.
Is Delta-11 Better Than Delta-10?
Cannabinoids have different pharmacological profiles hence different health benefits. While one person might want Delta-9 for intense euphoria, another might prefer Delta-8 for relaxation. So a person’s health and/or recreational needs determine which ‘Delta’ is better.
Can You Take Delta-10 And 11 Together?
Yes, you can take Delta-10 and 11 together. That’s because they have different potency levels and produce different effects. Today, many cannabis brands use two or more cannabinoids in their products to enhance their potency.
And as brands become more innovative, herbs and botanicals are also increasingly being added. The outcome is supplements that are powerful enough to address wide-ranging health concerns.
What Is The Legal Status Of Delta-11 And Delta-10?
This is an area that is still obscure. The 2018 Agriculture Improvement Bill legalized hemp, transforming it into an agricultural commodity. This also means compounds derived from hemp, such as cannabinoids, are legal.
However, this law stipulates that the Delta-9 THC levels in hemp should not exceed 0.3%. Otherwise, it is considered marijuana, which is still largely illegal in the country.
So, essentially, all cannabinoids derived from hemp, including Delta-10 and 11, are technically legal. However, some states have not ratified the 2018 Farm Bill, which means hemp remains illegal. One such state is Idaho.
In recent times, the legality of Delta-8 has also come under intense scrutiny in some states. They argue that there is little information on the compound’s pharmacological and potential side effects. So, if you reside in the following 14 states, the ‘Deltas’ may not be legal.
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Idaho
- Iowa
- Kentucky
- Mississippi
- Montana
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Utah
But cannabis laws are ever-evolving, so you may want to check your local state’s laws to be better informed.
Are Delta-10 And 11 Safe?
Besides THC and CBD, there is little information on the toxicology profiles of other cannabinoids, including Delta-10 and 11. But these are psychoactive cannabinoids, so if you want to know how they can affect you, simply reference Delta-8 THC.
Delta-9 is undoubtedly more powerful, so its effects are intense. This is not the case with Delta-10 and 11, which are likely to behave more like Delta-8 than Delta-9.
Nonetheless, using psychoactive cannabinoids calls for caution and moderation. You don’t want to use your finger to test how hot the fire is, do you? So, always start with lower doses as you assess your response.
If need be, you can increase the dosage depending on your health needs. But keep in mind that more is not always better with cannabinoids.
Delta-10 And Delta-11: FAQs
Does Delta-10 Get You High
Delta-10 is a psychoactive compound, so it could get you high. But being 30-40% as potent as Delta-9 THC, its high is likely mild.
How Strong Is Delta-10?
In terms of potency, Delta-10 falls between Delta-9 and Delta-8. So, if you are wondering how strong Delta-10 is, it doesn’t seem to be a potent form of THC.
Does Delta-10 Show Up On Drug Tests?
Drug tests usually test for the metabolite THC-COOH, which forms when Delta-9 THC breaks down in the liver. At this point, the pharmacokinetics of Delta-11 is a grey area on which more research is certainly needed.
Being a Delta, it may well show up on a drug test. So it is better to avoid it if you undergo routine drug tests.
Does Delta-11 Get You High?
According to a study, Delta-11 exhibits ¼ the potency of Delta-9 THC. This makes it as strong as cannabinol (CBN), which is barely psychoactive.
Is Delta-11 The Strongest?
No, if anything, Delta-11 appears to be weaker than other Deltas. If you want something more potent than Delta-9, think of HHC-O, THC-O, THC-H, THC-B, or THC-P. Just be extra careful with these; they are highly potent!
Does Delta-11 Show Up On Drug Test?
As mentioned earlier, the compound tested for in drug tests is THC-COOH, a metabolite of Delta-9 THC. It is unclear if these other ‘Deltas’ also produce this metabolite. So to be safe, err on the side of caution.
Final Thoughts — Delta-10 vs. Delta-11
Delta-10 and 11 are new additions to the ‘Delta’ family. This is great news considering the many health benefits of Delta-8 and 9. However, research on these unique cannabinoids is scarce, so their potential health benefits remain anecdotal.
However, if you want to try them, proceed with caution. Start with smaller doses and work your way up gradually. Assess how you feel and decide whether to continue using.
Where To Buy Delta-Cannabinoids And HHC Products Online
Want to try out some high-quality ‘Deltas?’ At Melee Dose, we make some of the tastiest, well-crafted THC and HHC products on the market. If you are ready to elevate your taste buds with fun and luxury, Melee Dose is your go-to.
Get started with these Kiwi – Pink Candy Kush Gummies. They contain 4mg of Delta-9, 10mg of Delta-8, 10mg of Delta-10, and 9mg of HHC, making them truly one of a kind! Moreover, they are infused with the Pink Candy Kush terpenes, making them so potent that consumers experience magical effects like time travel and super-strength!
To feel the full power of the Deltas, try this Wedding Cake Live Resin Disposable Vape. It is made with a rare cannabinoid blend of HHC, Delta-8, Delta-9, and Delta-10, enhanced with Wedding Cake terpenes and blueberries to give an extremely satisfying and potent inhale!
