Guide to Delta-11 THC and 11-Hydroxy-THC

New cannabinoids hitting the market are a regular occurrence these days, and we expect Delta-11 THC to be next. Like Delta-8 and Delta-10, which have recently gained popularity among cannabis users, Delta-11 is another variant of THC that differs from the standard Delta-9.

While there is not much on Delta-11 yet, it can easily be confused with the well-known 11-Hydroxy-THC. So, what’s the difference? 

We’ll get into the workings of Delta-11 and 11-Hydroxy-THC and which other cannabinoids you might consider trying until Delta-11 products hit the market. 

What is Delta-11 THC

Delta-11 THC is a naturally occurring THC variant found only in cannabis Sativa plants. When found naturally, it is only in minuscule amounts; however, it’s believed that many cannabinoids can be chemically converted to Delta-11. 

Even with the possibility of chemically converting cannabinoids to Delta-11, it remains extremely rare.

Delta-11 THC vs. Delta-9 THC

Delta-9 THC is the standard cannabinoid for weed products. Unless stated otherwise, you’re likely getting Delta-9 THC when you buy marijuana products at a dispensary or delivery service. For reference, Delta-9 essentially sets the standard for marijuana potency, while all other psychoactive cannabinoid compounds are measured in comparison to it. 

At this time, there is not enough research on Delta-11 THC to understand how it compares to Delta-9 regarding potency and other aspects. 

The critical difference that we do currently know of between Delta-11 THC and Delta-9 THC is that Delta-9 is not legal at the federal level while Delta-11 is. More on that later. 

Effects of Delta-11 THC

There has been little to no research on the effects of Delta-11 THC, as it has not yet been made into consumable products. However, if it is anything like Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC, it will have psychoactive effects that are somewhat less potent than Delta-9.

What is 11-Hydroxy-THC

When we consume Delta-9 THC, it metabolizes into 11-Hydroxy-THC in our bodies, pushing the psychoactive effect to the next level. 

11-hydroxy-THC is considered to be about three times more potent than Delta-9.

Delta-8 vs. 11-Hydroxy-THC

One of the most significant differences between Delta-8 THC and 11-Hydroxy-THC is the potency. While Delta-8 is less potent than Delta-9, 11-Hydroxy-THC is significantly more potent. 

The other significant difference between the two compounds is how they’re produced. Delta-8 is a compound derived from hemp CBD, but 11-Hydroxy-THC is a metabolite of Delta-9; at this point, it is only known to be created in the human body.

Is Delta-11-THC the same as 11-hydroxy-THC?

These THC compounds are entirely different. But, since the titles both contain “THC” and “11,” they are often muddled when researching one compound or the other.

11-Hydroxy-THC is much more well known in the cannabis community, so chances are you’ll find an abundance of information on 11-hydroxy-THC even if you’re searching for Delta-11.

Is Delta-11 THC Legal?

The United States Farm Bill passed in 2018 explicitly states that any hemp-derived compound containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC is federally legal, including Delta-11 THC. 

With a lack of Delta-11 products on the market, state legislatures haven’t been burdening themselves with banning Delta-11, but that is a possibility for the future. State-to-state bans are what happened to Delta-8 and many other cannabinoids that hit the market to be a legal alternative to Delta-9.

Consumption Methods

Now that we know what Delta-11 and 11-Hydroxy-THC are let’s discuss how we get them into our systems.

Where Is Delta-11 Available?

At this time, Delta-11 has yet to be made into products and put on the market. However, with all of the new THC compounds coming out due to the Farm Bill, THC retailers may begin selling Delta-11 products in the foreseeable future.

Based on the most popular consumption methods of other cannabinoids, we can expect to find Delta-11 in some tasty edibles and convenient vapes once products do make it on the market.

Where is 11-Hydroxy Available?

11-Hydroxy is only available in your own body. Again, it is the metabolite of THC that your body produces after consumption. If you want to feel the effects of 11-Hydroxy as intensely as possible, eat edibles instead of smoking because edibles go through your digestive system and are metabolized more intensely. 

Safety

With any THC compound, we always have to consider safety first. 

Is Delta-11 Safe?

It is difficult to say if Delta-11 is safe because, at this time, there has been no documented research on human consumption of it. The best way to ensure safe use of Delta-11 once products hit the market is to only purchase from reputable sources with transparent lab testing. 

Is 11-Hydroxy Safe?

11-Hydroxy is safe because your own body creates it. Although, if you’ve ever gotten too high, that results from too much 11-Hydroxy in your system. To avoid this, be careful consuming too much too fast, especially edibles. 

Closing Thoughts

If you’re intrigued by trying a psychoactive cannabis compound other than the usual Delta-9 THC, you don’t have to wait for Delta-11 products to hit the market. 

If you want something less potent than Delta-9 you might enjoy Delta-8 or even Delta-10 THC products.

If you like CBD, but you wish it had just a little bit of a psychoactive kick, you should give HHC a try. Or, if you want something even more potent than Delta-9, pick up some THC-O products today.   

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. This product is in compliance with section 10113 of the 2018 farm bill and contains <0.3% Delta 9 THC.