THC-JD vs. Delta 9 THC: Examining the Effects and Benefits

It’s no news that marijuana use is becoming legal across different parts of the world. As such, humanity is beginning to discover the numerous cannabinoids found in the plant. Some of these include cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8-THC), and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-9-THC). And while cannabinoids like delta-9-THC have undergone thorough research, there’s more to learn about compounds like THC-JD.

Despite being in its early stage of exploration, THC-JD is increasingly getting popular in the hemp world for its more potent and enjoyable ‘high’. In this article, we’ll reveal the available knowledge about this compound. We’ll also examine what makes THC-JD different from popular cannabinoids like delta-9-THC. Let’s get started! 

What Is THC-JD?

Also known as THCjd, delta-9 THC-C8, or tetrahydrocannabioctyl, THC-JD is a naturally occurring cannabinoid with an 8-carbon side chain. At first glance, it looks structurally similar to delta-9-THC. However, a closer examination shows that its octyl side chain is longer than delta-9-THC’s 5-carbon side chain.

How Is THC-JD Made?

THC-JD is found naturally in trace amounts in the cannabis plant. It was discovered in 2020 when advanced analytical techniques became available to hemp researchers. As such, there is still a lot to discover about THC-JD.

Because it occurs naturally in trace amounts, THC-JD is commercially produced by using heat and chemical catalysts on weed. In order words, the THC-JD in the market is a semi-synthetic form of the one naturally found in cannabis. 

THC-JD Effects

THC-JD is a relatively new compound with little exploration done on it. Nonetheless, those who have tried it have reported that it is highly intoxicating. So, you should expect a more potent effect when you consume vapes and gummies made from THCjd.

One word that has been used repeatedly to describe what THC-JD’s high feels like is super-relaxing. You should expect greater euphoria, more sedation, and a stronger sense of calm with this cannabinoid. This implies that it’s probably best taken in the evening when you want to unburden the stress of a long day.

Just like you would with any other cannabinoid, you must be aware of your tolerance level when it comes to using THC-JB. As a beginner, this substance could be pretty intense. Thus, you might want to take it small and slow, then work your way up over time.

Products Available

THC-JD is quite popular and is mostly sold in vape form. Although rare, you can also find them as gummies and tinctures. If you want to try THC-JD, ensure you buy it from a trusted brand with a good reputation. As much as possible, look out for their lab reports to verify that you’re purchasing high-grade products that are tested for safety and potency. 

Benefits and Risks 

As we’ve explained earlier, THC-JD hasn’t undergone much medical research. Meaning we can’t make any factual submissions until a more conclusive study is done on it. However, because it is a cannabinoid, there’s a good chance that it can help with issues like:

• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Insomnia
• Physical discomfort
• Bad mood

There is limited evidence of the potential risks associated with using THC-JD. Nonetheless, it can be assumed that it might share the same risks as consuming THC, but on a stronger side. Some of these include:

• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Paranoia

Is THC-JD Legal?

According to federal law, hemp products with a maximum of 0.3% delta-9-THC are legal. Luckily, THC-JD falls under this category and is, therefore legal. Additionally, the 2018 Farm Bill implies that there is no restriction to the concentration of THC-JD that can be found in products. 

Nonetheless, you need to be aware of state laws. For example, while THC-JD is allowed federally, it is strictly prohibited in states where THC cannabinoids are banned. These states include:

• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• Colorado
• Delaware
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Iowa
• Maryland
• Mississippi
• Montana
• Nevada
• New York
• North Dakota
• Oregon
• Rhode Island
• Utah 
• Vermont
• Washington

THC-JD vs. Delta-9 THC

The side chain length is the major difference between both compounds. THC-JD is three carbons longer than delta-9-THC, which means it would attach more tightly to the cannabinoid receptors in the human body, thus leading to a more potent effect.

Dr. Erik Paulson, a lab manager at InfiniteCAL, explained it better. He said, “The length of the alkyl side chain can affect how tightly the molecule binds to the CB1 receptor (the main receptor in the body responsible for the psychoactive effects caused by the cannabinoids). A pocket in the receptor accommodates the alkyl side chain, and the longer the chain (up to a point) will theoretically allow for more favorable interactions.”

Final Takeaways

The unique relaxing effect of THC-JD has made it join the ranks of other popular cannabinoids like delta-8-THC and delta-9-THC. If you want to explore something different, you can try out this new kid on the block. To ensure you buy pure products, only make your purchases from trusted vendors. Also, if a brand seems to make big claims of research about THC-JD, it’s a red flag, and you should probably avoid them.