Delta 9 THC (Delta 9, D9 THC, D9, or THC) is one of the most well-known, if not the most popular, cannabinoids in the world. It provides euphoric effects and wellness benefits. Recent cannabis laws have made hemp-derived Delta 9 products legal across the nation. But many states, especially those in the South, have their own laws. If you’re a resident of the Palmetto State and love Delta 9, you might be asking yourself, “Is Delta 9 legal in South Carolina?” Cannabis laws can get confusing due to federal law differing from state laws and laws varying from state to state.
It’s difficult to know which side of the fence Delta 9 THC falls on when it comes to legality. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived cannabinoids with a THC content of 0.3% or less, and many states followed suit. Therefore, Delta 9 is legal if sourced from the hemp plant and has a low THC content. However, Delta 9 THC obtained from marijuana remains illegal on a federal level and in many states. So, where does South Carolina fall in all this? Read to learn about THC in South Carolina and your consumption rights.
Is Delta 9 THC Legal in South Carolina?
Yes, Delta 9 THC is legal in South Carolina, provided it is hemp-derived, and products containing it have a total THC content of 0.3% or less. Residents and visitors to the state can consume and purchase hemp-derived Delta 9 with no legal repercussions if they meet the stipulations mentioned above. Similarly, you can consume and purchase any hemp-derived product with a federally defined THC level of 0.3% or less in the state. All marijuana-derived Delta 9 THC products are illegal in the Palmetto State.
South Carolina House Bill 3449: Delta 9 THC Legality in South Carolina Explained
In 2019, Gov. Henry McMaster signed South Carolina House Bill 3449, legalizing all hemp-derived products with this low THC content. Delta 9 legality in South Carolina extends to all derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts, and similar hemp products. It is considered commercial hemp, and it has been removed from the state’s Schedule 1 controlled substances.
Hemp is legal largely due to the benefits of industrial hemp. You can process industrial hemp to make paper, auto parts, upholstery, and more. The plant also offers various health benefits.
However, you must consider the difference between sterilized hemp seeds and non-sterilized hemp seeds. Sterilized hemp seeds are legal in the U.S. Non-sterilized seeds are illegal. They can only be imported into the country with a Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) permit.
So, is THC legal in South Carolina? Yes, provided it meets the acceptable THC level for hemp. Products with higher THC levels and those that are not hemp-derived are not legal in the state.
Possible Legislative Changes Affecting Delta 9 THC Legality
The Farm Bill is up for renewal approximately every five years. So, how will that affect Delta 9 THC legality? It’s hard to say. Political gridlock has delayed the Farm Bill’s renewal until after the 2024 election cycle, pushing it to 2025. However, many predict there will be some minor changes.
Currently, the federal Farm Bill states that hemp-derived products are legal, provided they have a THC content of 0.3% or less. The Bill will likely be reworded to specifically mention the content of Delta 9 THC, as other types of THC have less potent euphoric effects.
There may also be some changes regarding Delta 9’s sister cannabinoid, Delta 8 THC, which is now in a gray area in some states. Federal and state governments are unsure how to classify it. It can be derived directly from hemp plants, but due to its scarcity, it is more often semi-synthesized from hemp-derived CBD.
The indirect process makes many people wonder if Delta 8 THC is, in fact, hemp-derived, even though it is. Lawmakers may classify Delta 8 as illegal when they update the Farm Bill. Its legality could also be more clearly defined, offering clarity to cannabis consumers.
While the Farm Bill does not set state cannabis laws, many states use it as inspiration and follow suit. Historically, South Carolina has followed federal Farm Bill regulations. It is unknown if the state will continue to do so with the new version.
Can You Buy Delta 9 THC in South Carolina?
Yes, you can buy hemp-derived Delta 9 THC products in South Carolina as long as they contain 0.3% THC or less. Consumers must be 21 or older to purchase such products in the Palmetto State. This age limit applies to both online and in-store purchases.
What Is Delta 9 THC?
Delta 9 THC is the most abundant euphoric cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It is present in extremely low concentrations in hemp plants (0.3% or less) and very high concentrations in marijuana plants. Hemp-derived Delta 9 sourced from the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa) is legal, while marijuana-derived Delta 9 THC is not.
The compound is the non-acidic version of THCA, a non-intoxicating cannabinoid. When THCA is exposed to heat, the cannabinoid in the raw plant material undergoes a chemical reaction called decarboxylation. This reaction turns THCA into Delta 9 THC. It gets its euphoric effects and its name from its double bond on the ninth carbon chain.
Delta 9 THC is closely related to other THC cannabinoids or THC analogs. This includes Delta 8 THC and Delta 10 THC, two of the most popular on the market. However, these sister cannabinoids have double bonds on their eighth and tenth carbon chains, respectively. This produces varying euphoria that’s not as strong as Delta 9 THC. These cannabinoids are also strictly sourced from hemp plants, whereas Delta 9 THC can be sourced from hemp or marijuana.
The positioning of the Delta 9 THC double bond means it strongly interacts with the CB1 receptor in the body’s endocannabinoid system or ECS. These cannabinoid receptors are in the brain and central nervous system (CNS). As a result, it has potent euphoric effects. However, the extent of the potency is also dependent on the THC concentration in the product.
Effects of Delta 9 THC
So, what can Delta 9 THC do for you? Well, it can do a lot! Many enthusiasts appreciate how THC makes them feel, both mentally and physically. Delta 9 can produce the following beneficial effects.
Cerebrally Stimulating Euphoria
Delta 9 interacts with the CB1 receptor to raise serotonin and dopamine levels, producing a state of bliss. Mind-altering sensations may also accompany the euphoria. The senses can enhance how you perceive light, color, sound, smell, taste, and touch. You may also experience a distorted sense of time.
Enhanced Creativity
Delta 9 THC is a favorite among creative individuals who suffer from mental roadblocks that stifle creativity. A bit of THC can help stimulate the mind, demolish mental barriers, and allow creatives to see things from a new perspective. Many creatives enjoy how Delta 9 THC allows them to enter a flow state.
Increased Happiness
Many will feel at ease or extremely overjoyed after consuming Delta 9 THC. Expect to feel giggly, more talkative, and more uplifted. It’s perfect for those times when you need a pick-me-up or want to ease social butterflies before an event.
Easing Stress and Promoting Relaxation
The increased serotonin and dopamine levels relieve stress and anxiousness, promoting deep relaxation. This can also aid with sleep. Expect to feel deep, penetrating sensations throughout your body as THC lulls you to sleep.
Increased Appetite
The cannabinoid enhances the senses, making food taste and smell better. It also increases the production of the hormone ghrelin, which stimulates hunger. Delta 9 THC can benefit people who have lost their appetite due to certain medical conditions or those with poor eating schedules.
Lowering Physical Discomfort and Soreness
Delta 9 interacts with the CB1 receptors in the brain and CNS and with the CB2 receptors in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which is linked to various aspects of physical health, like immunity. These interactions reduce the body’s negative reaction to environmental stimuli, joint stiffness, and muscle soreness. The previously mentioned increase in dopamine and serotonin can also calm physical discomfort signals that travel from the body to the brain.
Where Can You Buy Delta 9 THC in South Carolina?
You can buy Delta 9 THC in South Carolina from brick-and-mortar and online stores. Several dispensaries in South Carolina carry hemp-derived Delta 9 THC. However, it can be difficult to determine the quality of each product you buy at a dispensary. Budtenders can provide insight, but are they familiar with each product they sell? That’s why knowledgeable sales associates are a must when purchasing Delta 9 THC products in South Carolina.
For ultimate convenience, shop online for Delta 9 THC products. Reputable online sellers provide third-party lab reports so you can confirm the purity and potency of the items you purchase. You can check for contamination, which may make products unfit for animal or human consumption.
When shopping online, you also have time to research quality and prices to ensure the items you buy are worth it. Virtual dispensaries also have you covered legally. Most sell Farm Bill-compliant products only. They will not ship products to states where D9 is illegal. Plus, online stores allow you to shop from the convenience of your home, with the products shipping directly to your doorstep.
Exhale Wellness Stands Out for Hemp-Derived Delta 9 Products
There are several online sellers to choose from, but Exhale Wellness stands out from the competition. We sell federal Farm Bill-compliant, hemp-derived products that contain the legal amount of THC for hemp. We will only ship products that are permitted in your state. Thankfully, our entire catalog of Delta 9 THC products is legal for you, South Carolina residents!
Our products are third-party lab-tested for purity and potency. We make them with natural, plant-based ingredients you can feel good about putting in your body. Our products contain no animal derivatives, making them entirely wholesome and vegan-friendly. They also contain hemp sourced from farmers who use organic methods when cultivating and processing hemp plants.
We carry a wide selection of Delta 9 products. Our extensive catalog contains THCA flower, Delta 9 Oil, and Delta 9 Gummies. Some gummy formulations contain Delta 9 alone, while others combine Delta 9 with other cannabinoids for enhanced effects. Each edible delivers a customized experience that will satisfy your THC needs.
Final Thoughts – Is Delta 9 Legal in South Carolina? [Current Law Explained]
When it comes to the Palmetto State, Delta 9 THC is legal in South Carolina as long as products containing it are hemp-derived and do not exceed 0.3% total THC by dry weight. Cannabis laws can get confusing, and regulations are always changing. South Carolina residents must pay attention to updates on the law to ensure a safe and legal cannabis experience.
Delta 9 is the world’s most popular cannabinoid that delivers stimulating euphoric effects and several potential wellness benefits. Though beneficial, it must be consumed responsibly. A trusted dispensary will sell tolerable products that stand out for their purity and potency. But for product variety, better price, deep inventory, and convenience, shop with Exhale Wellness for the best Delta 9 THC legal products online! Visit our Delta 9 shop today and find the right product for your needs!
