Good day, Campers! We hope your week’s fairing you well. You’ve probably heard of cannabinoid derivatives like Delta-8, Delta-10, HHC, etc. There’s budding information on a cannabinoid that’s catching peoples’ attention! It’s called Delta 11, or more formally referenced: 11-hydroxy-THC. Let’s hit the trails to explore this “new” cannabinoid together! 11-hydroxy-THC has been around for a minute, but the research is pretty sparse! We wanted to know why this cannabinoid has caught so much chatter, and we’re excited to share what we’ve learned!
What is 11-hydroxy-THC?
You’ve likely heard of Delta 9 THC and its psychoactive properties! Delta 9 is one of the major cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant and is well known for its effects (the “high” commonly associated with marijuana consumption.) To better understand 11-hydroxy-THC, you first need to understand Delta 9 and how it’s processed by our bodies! When we consume cannabis, it’s broken down by our liver (specifically enzymes P2C9 and CYP2C9) and is then metabolized, turning into 11-hydroxy-THC. Consumptive methods will affect the potency of this metabolite; edibles are generally thought to produce more 11-hydroxy-THC, which can intensify THC’s effects. According to a case study published by JCI (Journal of Clinical Investigation) on 11-hydroxy-THC, “A marked tachycardia and psychologic “high” occurred within 3-5 min after the i.v. administration of 11-OH-Δ9-THC (1 mg) to all subjects. In contrast, the peak psychologic “high” was delayed 10-20 min after the i.v. administration of Δ9-THC (1 mg).” [Lemberger¹] that’s incredible – and also a word of caution for our seasoned stoners: 11-hydroxy-THC is pretty potent! You can also feel its effects almost instantaneously, just minutes after consumption. 11-hydroxy-THC’s potency is attributed to its binding capabilities; its ability to bond to our CB1 receptors is better and more viable than Delta 9, which sheds some light to its efficacy.
Can you Purchase Delta 11? (Eh, kinda!)
Currently, there are no known products that contain only Delta 11 (aka: 11-hydroxy-THC) but that doesn’t mean you still can’t enjoy the experience! We just learned that 11-hydroxy-THC is produced as our bodies break down the cannabinoid, Delta 9 THC. If you happen to be munching on an edible, you’re likely to have a much more intense experience. As our digestive systems break down Delta 9, it metabolizes to 11-hydroxy-THC, which in terms of effects, is nearly 3 times as potent as its predecessor. This is one of the primary reasons silly/scary stoner stories often begin with, “… and then I ate a bunch of edibles.”
Consumers’ Guide to Delta 11:
As of mid 2022, , Delta 11 products aren’t in production, however; you’re still able to feel its effects through natural biology! If you happen to be wary of 11-hydroxy-THC’s potency, you can start small by microdosing Delta 9 THC. When you microdose cannabis (or cannabis-infused products) you’re consuming small amounts gradually over time, slowly inducing the high. By experiencing this way, you’re able to fully assess your body’s response to it! And you’ll have much more control over the vibe. In part 1 of our Eat Your High blog series, we crafted a handy-handy microdosing chart, just to make things easier! (For stellar stoney recipes, check out the additional parts to that series!) If edibles are too strong for you, you can switch up your consumptive method. Smokeables/inhalants provide almost instantaneous effects; users claim the vibe often begins within 3-15 minutes and usually tapers off after 1-3 hours! This can be a great place to start for beginners, or anyone that’s looking for a mild high and a more controlled experience.
At The Happy Camper, you know we’ve got your back! We’ve got a stellar line-up of smokeables to get you started on your journey. On our website you can find Hempnotics’ live-resin vape carts inclusive of all the best cannabinoids! Inside the Camper (check our Instagram for locale) you can find Trap Snax’s newest line of 2 gram disposables: Trap Vapes and our very own, Happy Camper pre-rolls! Come on down and grab your green goodies – we can’t wait to see ya!
