The 2018 US Farm Bill gave farmers and consumers a precise definition of hemp flowers. If a cannabis strain has ≤ 0.3 percent delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis, it qualifies for federally legal hemp status. However, even if a CBD-rich flower has a smidge above this 0.3 percent cutoff, it’s technically illegal marijuana.
Although these rules are as clear as day, some customers may have seen hemp-derived CBD products with extra THC concentrations. Are these CBD oils legal to take in certain territories? Also, why would anyone want to order a CBD oil with over 0.3 percent THC?
How Is High-THC Hemp CBD Oil For Real?
Since delta-9 THC is the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, it remains the DEA’s central target. To this day, the DEA considers delta-9 THC to be a “Schedule I” substance like LSD and heroin.
However, as more states have begun pushing back against the DEA’s policies, a few local governments have become more friendly toward THC. There are also more research facilities looking into THC’s potential therapeutic uses.
From a practical standpoint, it’s difficult for extractors to eliminate delta-9 THC from hemp flowers. Even though hemp naturally has low levels of THC, there are often minuscule amounts of this cannabinoid even in products labeled “THC-free.”
For all these reasons, some states have decided to allow licensed dispensaries to sell CBD products with above 0.3 percent delta-9 THC. Even territories with restrictive cannabis laws may allow medical marijuana patients to use CBD oils with above 0.3 percent delta-9 THC.
So, you could see CBD products with above 0.3 percent THC due to relaxed local laws. If a state has recreational cannabis laws, it will be more accepting of CBD products with higher THC concentrations.
However, customers should remember any CBD product with above 0.3 percent THC will be subject to statewide purchasing limits. Always review your hometown’s cannabis rules and regulations before deciding whether to purchase CBD items with above-average THC levels.
Why Do Some People Prefer High-THC CBD Oils?
Interestingly, most people don’t search for CBD oils with a high THC concentration to get “high.” Instead, customers interested in these CBD extracts often want to take advantage of the “entourage effect.”
Some researchers believe all of hemp’s natural cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids have unique benefits and synergistic effects. Some preliminary data suggests low levels of THC could have a therapeutic impact on conditions like anxiety.
While it’s still too early to say how much of an impact these low levels of THC have, some CBD customers swear it makes a big difference. Even though CBD blocks THC from exerting too much of a psychoactive impact, many anecdotal reports suggest a pinch of extra delta-9 THC intensifies a hemp extract’s effects.
Just keep in mind that there’s no scientific evidence suggesting full-spectrum CBD oils work better than broad-spectrum or isolate CBD. It’s also possible that customers could experience an adverse reaction when taking a higher dose of delta-9 THC. Even if CBD oils with higher-than-average THC are legal in your area, please weigh the risks and benefits before trying a new product.
Always Double-Check THC Screenings On Real Tested CBD
Whether you’re interested in CBD oils with or without delta-9 THC, you must request a third-party lab test. These forms help customers know the exact THC percentage in their CBD oil. If you see “ND,” that means the level of THC is so low that it’s virtually “non-detectable.” Anything above 0.3 percent means your CBD oil is a federally-illegal marijuana product.
If you’re still not sure you’re reading your CBD lab reports correctly, we’d recommend checking out Real Tested CBD’s unbiased reviews. From CBD oils and tinctures to gummies and vape pods, our site is full of ratings on the hottest CBD brands in North America.