With the rise of the legalization of cannabis for therapeutic and recreational purposes around the world, new questions are emerging about the methods of screening for its active compounds, in particular Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabino l ( Delta 9 THC ).
This molecule, at the heart of scientific interest, is recognized as the main psychoactive agent of cannabis , the one which is at the origin of the effects sought by consumers for its recreational and therapeutic properties.
Delta 9 THC , however, is just one prominent member of a larger family of cannabinoids, including the lesser known but no less intriguing delta-8 THC and delta-10 THC . Although they share a similar chemical backbone, these molecules diverge in terms of psychotropic effects and biological repercussions, which arouses keen interest in scientific and medicinal explorations.
In this article, we will shed light on the composition of Delta 9 THC , explore its diverse effects on the human body, and debate the ability of saliva tests to detect its presence .
What is Delta-9 THC?
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol: the molecule at the heart of cannabis
In the world of cannabinoids, one molecule reigns supreme through its notoriety and influence: Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol , commonly known as Delta-9-THC or simply THC .
This organic compound is the primary psychoactive substance found in the Cannabis sativa plant. It is the molecule responsible for the psychotropic effects associated with cannabis consumption, such as euphoria, relaxation, and sometimes modification of sensory perception.
Chemically, THC is an aromatic compound that has a three-ring structure: a cyclohexane ring, a pyran ring, and a benzene ring. Its chemical formula is C₂₁H₃₀O₂. THC is often mentioned with its double bond at position 9, hence the name “ Delta-9 ”. This molecular configuration influences how THC interacts with the human nervous system.
Delta-9 THC is particularly interesting for several reasons, both from a chemistry perspective and its effects on the human body and its potential applications:
The effects and benefits of Delta-9 THC
- Its molecular structure allows it to bind to cannabinoid receptors found in the human brain and throughout the body. These receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating many bodily functions, including pain, mood, appetite and memory.
Psychoactive properties of Delta 9 THC
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D9 THC is also known for its psychoactive effects , which can include a feeling of euphoria, relaxation, altered sensory perception, as well as changes in thinking and consciousness. These effects can be used for recreational purposes, but they are also the focus of much research to understand how the brain works. It also attracts great interest from the medical community .
Medicinal properties of Delta 9 THC
- Delta 9 THC therefore has potential medicinal properties . It has been used to treat symptoms like chronic pain, nausea, and loss of appetite, especially in patients undergoing chemotherapy. It is also being studied for its usefulness in treating conditions like glaucoma, inflammatory diseases like multiple sclerosis, and mental disorders like depression and anxiety.
Origins and uses of Delta-9 THC
The origins of Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol ( Delta-9-THC ) are found in the cannabis plant, which has been used for millennia for its psychoactive and medicinal properties. Delta 9 THC is one of several cannabinoids, chemical compounds naturally found in cannabis, and was first isolated and synthesized in the 1960s by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam in Israel. This paved the way for a better understanding of its effects and the discovery of the human endocannabinoid system.
Recreational Uses of Delta-9 THC:
Delta 9 THC is the main molecule responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. When consumed, usually through inhalation or ingestion , Delta 9 THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, causing feelings of euphoria, relaxation, changes in thinking and sensory perception, and sometimes anxiety. or paranoia .
Medical Uses of Delta-9 THC :
Delta 9 THC has varied medical applications. It is used for:
- Reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy.
- Stimulate the appetite in people suffering from cachexia (severe weight loss) associated with cancer or AIDS.
- Reduce chronic pain, although its effectiveness may vary from one individual to another.
- Improve symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
Delta 9 THC and pharmaceutical research
Medicines based on Delta 9 THC have been developed and approved in some countries. For example, dronabinol is a synthetic version of Delta-9-THC used to treat nausea and stimulate appetite.
Research continues on Delta 9 THC to explore its potential therapeutic effects and to develop new medications that may have fewer psychoactive effects and more therapeutic benefits. The complexity of Delta 9 THC and its interaction with the endocannabinoid system offers vast potential for new scientific and medical discoveries.
The different types of Delta 9 THC products:
Delta 9 THC comes in different forms, such as edibles (gummies, brownies and cookies) capsules, e-liquids or flowers . The molecule can be consumed by digestion, by inhalation or by vaporization.
Is Delta 9 THC legal in France?
All the products we sell contain less than 0.3% THC and have been validated by French customs!
In France, Delta 9 THC is considered an illicit drug. French law prohibits the possession, sale, purchase and use of products containing a THC level greater than 0.3% . Here are some specific elements related to the legality of Delta 9 THC in France:
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Legal quantity of THC: In France, the legal threshold of THC authorized in cannabis-derived products is 0.3%, in accordance with European legislation. Beyond this limit, the product is considered illicit cannabis.
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Possession Legislation: Possession of cannabis and products containing Delta 9 THC above the legal limit is strictly prohibited. Possession of cannabis is punishable by criminal penalties, including fines and prison sentences.
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Medical use: Despite changing attitudes towards cannabis for medical purposes in some countries, France maintains a strict stance. Medical use of cannabis, including Delta 9 THC , is not permitted in most cases, although discussions on this topic may emerge periodically.
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Legal Penalties: Penalties for illegal possession or use of products containing Delta 9 THC may vary depending on the quantity and circumstances. This can range from substantial fines to prison sentences, depending on the seriousness of the offense.
It is important to note that cannabis laws can change, and it is essential to stay informed of current regulations . The information provided here is based on legislation in place until my last update in January 2023, and changes may have occurred since then.
Is it possible to detect the Delta 9 THC molecule in a saliva test?
Detection of Delta 9 THC by saliva tests
The answer is Yes , it is possible to detect Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol ( Delta-9-THC ) with a saliva test . These tests are designed to identify the presence of THC in saliva, where the molecule can be found after cannabis consumption.
Saliva tests for Delta-9-THC are often used during roadside stops by law enforcement to check the condition of drivers. These tests are rapid and can be carried out at the side of the road or in the workplace with portable testing kits.
How long to be THC negative?
Delta-9-THC can be detected in saliva for a few hours to up to approximately 48 hours after consumption , although this can vary depending on several factors such as frequency of consumption, quantity consumed and individual metabolism. . Saliva tests are generally considered reliable indicators of recent cannabis use.
However, detection windows may vary, and results are not 100% accurate. At the time of testing, Delta-9-THC may remain in saliva after the psychoactive effects have worn off.
How to limit your chances of testing positive for cannabis?
The detection of delta 9 THC in saliva can be influenced by several factors, which can affect the detection window as well as the reliability of the results.
Some of these factors include:
- Dose Consumed : The greater the amount of cannabis consumed, the higher the concentration of Delta-9-THC in saliva, which may extend the period of time THC can be detected.
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Frequency of Use : Regular and chronic cannabis users may have detectable levels of Delta-9-THC in their saliva for a longer duration than occasional users.
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Method of Consumption : Delta-9-THC may be detected more easily in saliva after consuming cannabis through inhalation (smoking or vaporizing) compared to ingestion (such as in infused foods or drinks), because smoke or the steam comes into direct contact with the oral mucosa.
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Individual Metabolism : Metabolism varies from person to person and can influence how quickly Delta-9-THC is broken down and eliminated from the body.
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Salivary secretion rate : Reduced salivary flow can result in higher concentrations of Delta-9-THC in saliva, while more abundant secretion can dilute the presence of the molecule.
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Oral Hygiene: Cannabis residue can remain in the mouth after consumption, and oral hygiene practices can influence the length of time this residue is detectable.
- Interaction with other substances: The consumption of certain substances, such as alcohol or other medications, can affect the metabolism of Delta-9-THC and thus influence the results of the saliva test.
It is important to note that while saliva tests for Delta-9-THC are useful in indicating recent cannabis use, they do not measure consumption directly. Results should be interpreted in the overall context of the circumstances and symptoms observed.
Principle of operation of saliva tests
What is a saliva test and how does it work?
A saliva test is a device that detects the presence of certain substances in saliva. This is a rapid and non-invasive test , which can be carried out on the side of the road by law enforcement or in a medical or professional setting. The saliva test involves taking a sample of saliva using a stick or sponge, then analyzing it using an electronic reader or test strip. The test result is usually available within a few minutes.
The operating principle of the saliva test is based on the detection of antibodies specific to each substance sought. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system, which recognize and bind to antigens , which are molecules foreign to the body. When saliva contains a substance of interest, the corresponding antibodies bind to the antigens present in the substance, causing a color change or an electrical signal on the reading device. The saliva test then indicates whether or not the substance is present in the saliva, and sometimes its approximate concentration.
The different elements detected by saliva tests
Saliva tests can detect different substances depending on the models used. The most commonly searched substances are:
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Alcohol : This is the easiest substance to detect with a saliva test because it passes directly from the bloodstream into saliva. The saliva test measures the blood alcohol level, that is to say the concentration of alcohol in the blood. The legal threshold in France is 0.5 g/L of blood or 0.25 mg/L of expired air.
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Cannabis ( Delta 9 THC ): this is the most consumed illicit substance in France and the most detected by saliva tests . The saliva test measures the presence of THC or its metabolites, that is to say the products resulting from its degradation in the body. The legal threshold in France is 1 ng/mL of saliva.
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Opiates : this is a family of substances derived from opium, such as heroin , morphine , codeine or fentanyl . These substances have analgesic, euphoric and sedative effects, but also risks of dependence and overdose. The saliva test measures the presence of morphine or its metabolites, which are common to all opiates. The legal threshold in France is 10 ng/mL of saliva.
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Amphetamines : This is a family of stimulating substances, such as amphetamine , methamphetamine or ecstasy . These substances have energizing, euphoric and hallucinogenic effects, but also risks dehydration, hyperthermia and psychotic disorders. The saliva test measures the presence of amphetamine or its metabolites. The legal threshold in France is 50 ng/mL of saliva.
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Cocaine : this is a substance extracted from coca leaves, which has stimulating, anesthetic and euphoric effects, but also risks addiction, hypertension and heart attack. The saliva test measures the presence of cocaine or its metabolites, such as benzoylecgonine or ecgonine methyl ester. The legal threshold in France is 50 ng/mL of saliva.
- Benzodiazepines : This is a family of medications used to treat anxiety, insomnia or seizures, such as diazepam , lorazepam or clonazepam . These drugs have sedative, hypnotic and muscle relaxant effects, but also risks of dependence, drowsiness and amnesia. The saliva test measures the presence of benzodiazepines or their metabolites. The legal threshold in France varies depending on the molecules.
How reliable are saliva tests?
Limits and counterparts of these saliva tests
Saliva tests have advantages over other types of tests , such as blood, urine or hair tests . They are faster, simpler, less expensive and less invasive. They are also more suitable for detecting recently consumed substances, because they better reflect the active level of the substance in the body than other biological matrices.
However, saliva tests also have limitations and disadvantages , which can call into question their reliability and validity . Among these limits, we can cite:
- Sensitivity and specificity : saliva tests are not always capable of detecting the substances sought precisely and without error. They may be subject to false positives , i.e. indicating the presence of a substance when it is absent, or to false negatives , i.e. indicating the absence of a substance while it is present.
- Legality and ethics: Saliva tests do not always comply with the laws and ethical principles that govern substance testing . They can be considered as an attack on the privacy, medical confidentiality or informed consent of those tested. They can also be used for discriminatory, repressive or stigmatizing purposes against users of cannabis or other substances. They can also be legally contested, because they are not always scientifically or regulatory validated.
Try and discover the benefits of Delta 9 THC through our wide range of edibles such as Delta 9 THC Gummies , Delta 9 THC Cookies , as well as Delta 9 THC Brownies .
You will also find other hemp-derived products on our website eleventhc.com , as well as articles, reviews, prices and quality products. You can contact us if you have any questions or suggestions . We thank you for your attention and we wish you a good day.
