THC Guide: Delta 8, Delta 9 & Hemp-Derived THC Explained
THC isn't one thing anymore. The hemp market now offers multiple forms of THC β Delta 8, Delta 9, THCA, THCv β each with different effects, different potencies, and different legal statuses. If you're confused, you're in good company. This guide cuts through the noise and explains what each form of THC actually does, how they're different, and which one makes sense for you.
At Steve's Goods, we carry both Delta 8 and Delta 9 products β gummies, vapes, and concentrates. We've been formulating with these cannabinoids since they entered the hemp market, and we test every batch through independent third-party labs. Here's what you need to know.
Key Takeaways
- Delta 9 is the "classic" THC β strongest psychoactive effect
- Delta 8 is milder β roughly half the intensity, less anxiety
- Both are legal from hemp when products contain β€0.3% Delta 9 by dry weight
- Both WILL trigger a positive drug test β no exceptions
- Start low: 5mg Delta 9 or 12.5-25mg Delta 8 for beginners
Types of THC in Hemp Products
| Cannabinoid | Psychoactive? | Potency | Common Products |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta 9 THC | Yes β full strength | The baseline β all others measured against this | Gummies, vapes, concentrates |
| Delta 8 THC | Yes β mild to moderate | ~50-70% of Delta 9 | Gummies, vapes, cartridges, concentrates |
| THCA | No (until heated) | Converts to Delta 9 when smoked/vaped | Flower, pre-rolls |
| THCv | Mildly at high doses | Lower than Delta 9 | Specialty edibles, tinctures |
Delta 9 THC: The Standard
When people say "THC," they mean Delta 9. It's the most abundant psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, and it's the one responsible for the classic cannabis high β euphoria, altered perception, increased appetite, relaxation, and at higher doses, potential anxiety or paranoia.
Hemp-derived Delta 9 products are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill as long as the finished product contains no more than 0.3% Delta 9 THC by dry weight. This is why Delta 9 gummies work: a heavy gummy (4-5 grams) can contain 5mg of Delta 9 THC and still fall under the 0.3% threshold. The effect is real β 5mg is an active dose for most people.
Our Delta 9 gummies contain 5mg per piece. For context, that's considered a micro-dose to low dose. It's enough to feel clear euphoria and relaxation without being overwhelmed β especially if you start with just one.
Delta 8 THC: The Mild Alternative
Delta 8 is structurally almost identical to Delta 9 β the only difference is the position of a single chemical bond. But that small molecular shift changes the experience significantly. Delta 8 binds to CB1 receptors with less affinity, producing a milder, clearer-headed high with substantially less anxiety risk.
The typical description from customers: "I felt relaxed and slightly euphoric, but I could still think clearly and function." That's the Delta 8 sweet spot. It's psychoactive β you will feel something β but it's manageable in a way that Delta 9 isn't always, especially for people who are sensitive to THC or prone to cannabis-related anxiety.
Delta 8 is derived from CBD through a conversion process (isomerization). While the cannabinoid exists naturally in hemp, it occurs in very small amounts, so commercial Delta 8 products use CBD-converted Delta 8. This is still considered hemp-derived and legal under the Farm Bill, though some states have specifically restricted Delta 8.
Delta 8 Gummies
25mg Delta 8 THC per gummy. Mild euphoria, clear-headed relaxation. Great for beginners or anyone who finds Delta 9 too intense.
Shop Delta 8 βDelta 8 vs Delta 9: Side-by-Side
For the full breakdown, read our Delta 8 vs Delta 9 deep dive on the blog. Here's the summary:
| Factor | Delta 8 | Delta 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Intensity | Mild β "THC lite" | Full strength |
| Anxiety risk | Low | Moderate (dose-dependent) |
| Functional? | Yes β most users can think clearly | Depends on dose |
| Drug test | YES β will trigger positive | YES β will trigger positive |
| Legal | Federal yes, some states restrict | Federal yes (from hemp β€0.3%) |
| Best for | Beginners, anxiety-prone, daytime | Experienced, stronger relief, evening |
Product Forms: How to Take THC
| Product | Onset | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gummies | 30-60 min | 4-8 hours | Precise dosing, long-lasting, beginners |
| Vape cartridges | 1-5 min | 1-3 hours | Fast onset, experienced users |
| Disposable vapes | 1-5 min | 1-3 hours | Convenience, trying new strains |
| Concentrates | Immediate | 1-3 hours | Experienced users, maximum effect |
If you're new to THC from hemp, start with gummies. The dose is printed on the package, the onset is gradual, and you know exactly what you're getting. Vapes and concentrates hit faster and harder β save those until you know your tolerance.
Legality: The State of Hemp THC in 2026
The 2018 Farm Bill made hemp-derived products legal at the federal level, defined as cannabis containing β€0.3% Delta 9 THC by dry weight. Both Delta 8 and Delta 9 products that meet this threshold are federally legal.
However, state laws create a patchwork. Some states have banned Delta 8 specifically. Others have enacted their own THC limits or registration requirements. Laws change regularly as the Farm Bill comes up for renewal and states update their hemp regulations.
Dosing Guide for Beginners
- Delta 9 gummies (5mg): Start with 1 gummy. Wait 90 minutes before considering a second. 5mg is a real dose β treat it with respect.
- Delta 8 gummies (25mg): Start with half a gummy (12.5mg) or 1 full gummy. Delta 8 is milder but 25mg is still an active dose for beginners.
- Vapes: Take one small puff. Wait 10 minutes. Vapes hit fast β don't chain-puff your first time.
- General rule: You can always take more. You can never take less. Be patient.
Delta 9 Gummies
5mg Delta 9 THC per gummy. Precise, legal, lab-tested. The classic THC experience from hemp.
Shop Delta 9 βFrequently Asked Questions
The molecule is identical. Delta 9 THC is Delta 9 THC regardless of whether it comes from hemp or marijuana. The legal distinction is the plant's total concentration: hemp must contain β€0.3% Delta 9 THC by dry weight. Our products meet this threshold while still delivering an effective dose per serving.
Delta 8 gummies. The milder potency and lower anxiety risk make Delta 8 the safest starting point. Start with half a gummy (12.5mg) and work up from there. If you find Delta 8 too mild after a few sessions, move to Delta 9.
Yes. Both Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC produce metabolites that standard drug tests detect. There is no THC product that is drug-test safe. If testing is a concern, use THC-free CBD or CBN products instead.
THC gummies typically last 4-8 hours, with peak effects around 1.5-2 hours after consumption. Delta 9 tends to last slightly longer than Delta 8. The duration depends on your metabolism, dose, and whether you ate beforehand.
Hemp-derived THC products are federally legal, but state laws vary. Some states restrict Delta 8, others have their own THC limits. Check your state's current hemp regulations before purchasing. Steve's Goods ships to states where our products are legal.