Is Hemp-Derived THC Fake or Synthetic? Debunking the Myths and Misinformation

Posted by Masterpiece Perham on Jul 6th 2025

Is Hemp-Derived THC Fake or Synthetic? Debunking the Myths and Misinformation

Debunking the Myths: Hemp-Derived THC vs. Marijuana-Derived THC

There’s a lot of confusion and misinformation surrounding hemp-derived THC, particularly the belief that it is “fake” or “synthetic.” Many people mistakenly think that THC from marijuana is somehow “real,” while hemp-derived THC is not. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Both hemp and marijuana are cannabis plants, and they produce the same cannabinoids, including Delta-9 THC, albeit in different ratios. In this article, we’ll break down the science behind THC, clarify the differences between hemp and marijuana, and address the disinformation campaigns perpetuated by Big Marijuana and their allies.


Hemp and Marijuana: Two Sides of the Same Plant

1. Both Are Cannabis

Hemp and marijuana are both varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant. The main difference between the two lies in their chemical composition, particularly the ratio of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) to CBD (cannabidiol):

  • Hemp: Defined as cannabis plants that contain 0.3% or less Delta-9 THC by dry weight. Hemp plants tend to have higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC.
  • Marijuana: Contains higher levels of THC (typically 15-30%) and lower levels of CBD.

While the legal distinction is based on THC content, both plants produce the same cannabinoids. Whether THC is extracted from hemp or marijuana, the molecule is chemically identical.


What Is Delta-9 THC?

Delta-9 THC is the most well-known cannabinoid responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. It’s the same compound, no matter which cannabis plant it comes from.

Some key points to understand:

  • Delta-9 THC from hemp is not “fake” or “synthetic.” It is extracted naturally from hemp plants using the same processes used to extract THC from marijuana.
  • The confusion arises because people assume “Delta-9 THC” is exclusive to marijuana when, in reality, it exists in both hemp and marijuana plants.

Hundreds of Cannabinoids in Cannabis

Cannabis plants produce more than 100 cannabinoids, including both major and minor cannabinoids. These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce various effects.
Some of the cannabinoids found naturally in cannabis include:

  • CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-psychoactive, known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • CBN (Cannabinol): Often associated with sleep and relaxation.
  • CBC (Cannabichromene): Known for potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
  • Delta-8 THC: A naturally occurring variant of THC with slightly milder psychoactive effects than Delta-9.
  • Delta-10 THC: A less common, naturally occurring form of THC with uplifting effects.
  • THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol): A potent cannabinoid believed to be up to 30 times stronger than Delta-9 THC.

These cannabinoids, including Delta-8, Delta-10, and THCP, are all naturally occurring compounds in cannabis plants. They are not synthetic, although some require more advanced extraction and refinement processes due to their lower concentrations in the plant.


Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC: What’s the Difference?

The primary difference between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC lies in their molecular structure:

  • Delta-9 THC: Has a double bond on the 9th carbon chain of its molecular structure.
  • Delta-8 THC: Has a double bond on the 8th carbon chain of its molecular structure.

This small difference in molecular structure gives Delta-8 THC slightly different effects:

  • Delta-8 tends to produce a milder, more clear-headed high compared to Delta-9.
  • Delta-9 is more potent and commonly associated with the traditional psychoactive effects of cannabis.

Both Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC occur naturally in cannabis plants. However, Delta-8 is usually found in much smaller quantities, so it often requires extraction and refinement.


Who’s Behind the Misinformation About Hemp-Derived THC?

Big Marijuana’s Role in Spreading Misinformation

The narrative that hemp-derived THC is “fake” or “synthetic” is largely driven by Big Marijuana and Multi-State Operators (MSOs)—large corporations that dominate the marijuana industry. Here’s why:

  1. Competition: Hemp-derived THC products are often more affordable and accessible, cutting into Big Marijuana’s profits.
  2. Market Monopoly: When states legalize recreational marijuana, MSOs lobby for strict regulations that target hemp-derived products. This allows them to monopolize the market by eliminating competition from small hemp businesses.
  3. Fear Tactics: By spreading misinformation about hemp-derived THC, Big Marijuana tries to scare consumers into avoiding these products, even though they are just as natural and effective as marijuana-derived THC.

State Governments Benefit Too

State governments often support Big Marijuana’s lobbying efforts because they benefit financially:

  • Recreational marijuana sales generate significant tax revenue for states.
  • By heavily regulating or restricting hemp-derived THC, states can funnel consumers toward marijuana dispensaries, ensuring more tax dollars flow into their coffers.

Small hemp businesses, on the other hand, are often excluded from state-licensed marijuana markets, leaving them vulnerable to overregulation and lobbying efforts designed to shut them down.


Hemp-Derived THC Is a Lifeline for Small Businesses

Unlike the marijuana industry, which is dominated by large corporations, the hemp industry is primarily made up of small businesses and entrepreneurs. These businesses:

  • Provide affordable and accessible cannabis products to consumers in states where marijuana is still illegal.
  • Innovate with new cannabinoids like Delta-8, Delta-10, and THCP, offering a wider range of options for consumers.
  • Support local economies and create jobs in farming, manufacturing, and retail.

Overregulating or banning hemp-derived THC products would hurt small businesses and limit consumer choice, all while benefiting Big Marijuana and state governments.


The Bottom Line: Hemp-Derived THC Is Natural and Legitimate

Here’s what you need to remember:

  1. Hemp and marijuana are both cannabis plants that produce the same cannabinoids, including Delta-9 THC. The only difference is the THC-to-CBD ratio.
  2. Delta-9 THC is Delta-9 THC, no matter where it comes from. Hemp-derived Delta-9 is not “fake” or “synthetic.”
  3. Delta-8, Delta-10, and other minor THCs are naturally occurring cannabinoids in cannabis plants. They are not artificial but require more advanced extraction due to their lower concentrations.
  4. The misinformation surrounding hemp-derived THC is part of a deliberate campaign by Big Marijuana to eliminate competition from the hemp industry and secure a monopoly.

Hemp-derived THC products are safe, natural, and provide consumers with affordable alternatives to marijuana. By supporting hemp businesses, we support innovation, competition, and the small businesses that drive this industry forward, rather than lining the pockets of large corporations and state governments.


FAQ: Hemp-Derived THC vs. Marijuana-Derived THC – Debunking Myths and Misconceptions

1. What is hemp-derived THC?

Hemp-derived THC refers to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) extracted from hemp plants, which are legally defined as cannabis plants containing 0.3% or less Delta-9 THC by dry weight. It is the same Delta-9 THC compound found in marijuana but sourced from hemp plants.


2. Is hemp-derived Delta-9 THC the same as marijuana-derived THC?

Yes, Delta-9 THC is chemically identical whether it comes from hemp or marijuana. The molecule is the same, and the body processes it the same way, regardless of the source. The key difference lies in the plant’s THC-to-CBD ratio, with hemp containing lower THC and higher CBD levels compared to marijuana.


3. Is hemp-derived THC fake or synthetic?

No, hemp-derived THC is neither fake nor synthetic. It is a naturally occurring compound extracted from hemp plants. Synthetic THC, like dronabinol (used in FDA-approved medications such as Marinol), is lab-made, whereas hemp-derived THC is extracted directly from the plant.


4. Why do people believe hemp-derived THC is fake?

This misconception stems from misinformation campaigns driven by Big Marijuana and their allies, who aim to discredit the hemp industry. They falsely label hemp-derived THC as “fake” or “synthetic” to scare consumers and eliminate competition from small hemp businesses.


5. What are the differences between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC?

The primary difference between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC lies in their molecular structure:

  • Delta-9 THC: Has a double bond on the 9th carbon chain of its molecular structure.
  • Delta-8 THC: Has a double bond on the 8th carbon chain of its molecular structure.

This small difference makes Delta-8 slightly less potent and often described as producing a milder, more clear-headed high than Delta-9.


6. Are Delta-8, Delta-10, and other minor THCs naturally occurring?

Yes, Delta-8 THC, Delta-10 THC, THCP, and other minor THCs are naturally occurring cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. However, they are typically present in very small amounts, so advanced extraction and refinement processes are required to produce them in usable quantities.


7. How many cannabinoids are found in cannabis?

Cannabis produces more than 100 naturally occurring cannabinoids, including major cannabinoids like THC and CBD, as well as minor cannabinoids such as:

  • CBN (Cannabinol): Known for sedative effects.
  • CBC (Cannabichromene): Offers anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
  • THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol): A highly potent cannabinoid.
  • Delta-8 THC and Delta-10 THC: Milder psychoactive variants of Delta-9.

These cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, offering a wide range of potential benefits.


8. Why does Big Marijuana oppose hemp-derived THC?

Big Marijuana opposes hemp-derived THC because it threatens their market dominance. By spreading misinformation and lobbying for strict regulations, they aim to:

  • Eliminate competition from hemp-based businesses.
  • Secure a monopoly in the cannabis market.
  • Funnel consumers into state-regulated marijuana dispensaries.

This is especially evident when new recreational cannabis laws are introduced, as Big Marijuana typically lobbies for regulations that restrict or ban hemp-derived THC products.


9. How do state governments benefit from restricting hemp-derived THC?

State governments benefit financially by supporting Big Marijuana’s efforts to regulate hemp-derived THC because:

  • Tax Revenue: Marijuana sales generate significant tax dollars, which hemp products often do not.
  • Control: Limiting hemp-derived THC products pushes consumers toward state-licensed marijuana dispensaries, increasing revenue streams.

At the same time, these regulations harm small hemp businesses and reduce consumer choice.


10. Are hemp-derived THC products legal?

Yes, hemp-derived THC products are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, which allows the sale of hemp products containing 0.3% or less Delta-9 THC by dry weight. However, individual state laws vary, and some states have imposed restrictions on certain hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 THC.


11. Is hemp-derived THC safe?

Hemp-derived THC is safe when consumed responsibly. It is extracted from natural plants and undergoes rigorous testing by reputable manufacturers to ensure purity and potency. To ensure safety:

  • Purchase products from reputable brands with third-party lab testing.
  • Check for compliance with state and federal regulations.
  • Start with a low dose, especially if you’re new to THC.

12. Does hemp-derived THC produce the same effects as marijuana-derived THC?

Yes, hemp-derived THC produces the same effects as marijuana-derived THC because the molecules are identical. The psychoactive effects depend on the dose and the individual’s tolerance, not the source of the THC.


13. Why is there so much misinformation about hemp-derived THC?

The misinformation about hemp-derived THC is largely driven by Big Marijuana and state governments that stand to benefit financially from eliminating hemp as a competitor. By labeling hemp-derived THC as “fake” or “synthetic,” they create fear and confusion among consumers to steer them toward marijuana dispensaries and restrict the hemp industry.


14. Can hemp-derived THC support small businesses?

Yes, the hemp industry is primarily made up of small businesses and entrepreneurs. These businesses:

  • Provide affordable and accessible cannabis products.
  • Generate jobs in farming, manufacturing, and retail.
  • Innovate with new cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC.

Restricting hemp-derived THC disproportionately affects small businesses, while benefiting large marijuana corporations.


15. How can I ensure I’m buying high-quality hemp-derived THC products?

To ensure you’re buying safe and legitimate products:

  • Look for third-party lab testing to verify potency and purity.
  • Choose reputable brands that are transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes.
  • Avoid products that lack certification or appear too good to be true.

16. How does hemp-derived THC impact consumers?

Hemp-derived THC offers consumers:

  • Affordability: Products are often more cost-effective than marijuana-derived THC.
  • Accessibility: Available in states where marijuana is still illegal.
  • Variety: A wide range of cannabinoids, including Delta-8, Delta-10, and THCP, not commonly found in traditional marijuana products.

17. Does hemp-derived THC compete with marijuana products?

Yes, hemp-derived THC directly competes with marijuana products by offering similar effects at a lower cost and with greater accessibility. This competition has led to lobbying efforts by Big Marijuana to restrict hemp-derived products and secure a monopoly in the cannabis market.


18. What’s the difference between synthetic THC and hemp-derived THC?

  • Hemp-derived THC: Naturally extracted from cannabis plants.
  • Synthetic THC: Lab-made and does not occur naturally in plants. Examples include dronabinol (Marinol), which is FDA-approved for medical use.

Hemp-derived THC is a natural product, while synthetic THC is chemically engineered.


19. Why are hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-10 gaining popularity?

Hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 THC and Delta-10 THC are popular because they:

  • Offer unique effects, such as a milder high (Delta-8) or uplifting properties (Delta-10).
  • Are affordable and accessible, even in states where marijuana is restricted.
  • Provide more options for consumers seeking alternatives to traditional Delta-9 THC.

20. Is hemp-derived THC the future of cannabis?

Hemp-derived THC represents an important part of the cannabis industry’s future, especially for small businesses and consumers seeking affordable, natural alternatives. With continued innovation and advocacy, the hemp industry can thrive despite the misinformation campaigns and regulatory challenges posed by Big Marijuana and state governments.


Final Thoughts

Hemp-derived THC is natural, safe, and identical to marijuana-derived THC. The misinformation surrounding it is driven by Big Marijuana’s efforts to monopolize the cannabis market. By supporting hemp businesses and educating consumers, we can ensure a thriving, competitive cannabis industry that benefits everyone.