Rare cannabinoids and THC isomers have been hot topics in recent years. LaurelCrest is a leader in water-soluble cannabinoid preparations. Accordingly, we will discuss several of the most well-known THC isomers, their legality and potential applications, and the importance of water solubility.

What are THC Isomers?

THC isomers are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, and many offer comparable effects to Delta-9 THC, the main compound in cannabis.

These isomers are essentially rearranged versions of Delta-9 THC on a molecular level. Many are known to produce similar effects to THC, with some key differences.

An Overview of THC Isomers

Several main THC isomers dominate the market today, though more are continually being discovered, formulated, and sold.

Delta-8 THC or Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol

Delta-8 THC is also known as Delta-8 or D8. It is about half as potent as Delta-9 THC and is purported to produce a more mellow, manageable body high. It has the potential for therapeutic use, as it may aid in relaxation, appetite stimulation, and the reduction of nausea. It has potential neuroprotective effects as well.

Delta-9 THC or Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol

Delta-9 THC is what most consumers think of when they think of “THC.” It is usually strongly psychoactive and may show therapeutic potential in many different applications.

Delta-10 THC or Delta-10-Tetrahydrocannabinol

Delta-10 THC is also referred to as Delta-10 or D10. It is comparable in potency and effect to Delta-8, though many consumers report it is more energizing.

THC-O, THC-O-acetate or O-acetyl-THC

THC-O is also known as THC-O Acetate. It is purportedly significantly more potent than Delta-9 THC and can produce a near-psychedelic experience at higher doses. The potential therapeutic applications of this isomer have not yet been explored in-depth.

How are THC Isomers Made?

The exact process to manufacture THC isomers depends on the compound produced. As with all cannabis products, it is essential to source THC isomers from a trusted, verified lab.

Generally speaking, THC isomers are hemp-derived, and most are extracted from CBD. The CBD is first extracted from hemp, which legally must contain less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. Various THC isomers are then manufactured using the resulting CBD extract. These isomers can be processed into various finished products, though vapes and edibles are the most common.

Are THC Isomers Legal?

THC isomers are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill when extracted from hemp. However, many states have begun passing laws banning THC isomers like Delta-8 and THC-O.

Currently, THC isomers are legal in some states and counties.

The laws surrounding cannabis and THC isomers are constantly changing. It’s essential to stay up-to-date on local laws whether you are a manufacturer, consumer, or concerned citizen.

Why are Water-Soluble Solutions Essential to Bioavailability?

THC, and many other cannabinoids, only dissolve naturally in fats. The liposoluble and lipophilic nature of most major cannabinoids can be harnessed to make infused oils, but it is a limiting factor in formulating other cannabis products. Devising a way to make cannabinoids water soluble provides more formulation possibilities and often higher bioavailability.

What is Bioavailability?

Bioavailability refers to the body’s ability to absorb a chemical or compound. Several factors can alter bioavailability, from the molecular structure to the formulation.

Generally speaking, higher bioavailability corresponds with higher potency and more substantial effects.

Bioavailable Cannabinoid Ingredients and Applications

Water-soluble cannabinoids typically have a higher bioavailability and can be used in various formulations.

Ensuring the bioavailability of the cannabinoids in a given formulation allows more straightforward and efficient access to the therapeutic properties of a given cannabinoid.

Water soluble and highly bioavailable cannabinoid formulations offer increased freedom in the finished products. Water-soluble cannabinoids can be easily mixed into drinks and other liquids. These cannabinoids also open the door to a much wider variety of topical formulations that don’t require oils or other fats.

Water-Soluble White Label Hemp Products

Water-soluble cannabinoids are the future of novel cannabis products and formulations, particularly THC isomers. LaurelCrest offers many solutions for water-soluble and highly bioavailable cannabinoid and THC isomer products. Contact us today to learn more about wholesale and white-label opportunities.