A new term is taking the cannabis industry by storm: “altnoid.” These new compounds are shaking up the market as an alternative to the well-trodden path of traditional cannabinoids. But what exactly is an altnoid, and how do they fit into the current landscape alongside mainstream cannabis?
In this article, we’ll unravel the mystery of the altnoid and its place in the market.
Understanding Altnoids
Altnoid is a term not yet widely recognized but gaining traction. It refers to alternative cannabinoids that are either newly discovered or less common than their famous counterparts such as CBD and THC.
These compounds are getting more notoriety thanks to a loophole in the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp products containing less than 0.3% delta-9-THC. Altnoids are considered new and unusual with not a lot yet known about the effects and potential risks.
These compounds are distinct from the traditional cannabinoids yet users believe they offer comparable effects. Some users look to altnoids as offering a different spectrum of experiences to explore beyond the usual offerings.
The Risks of Altnoids
The primary concern of altnoid critics is safety. Some of these novel cannabinoids are either found in very low percentages in hemp and/or require a chemical process to convert or boost them to an effective potency. Making things more complicated, these products don’t fall under the same scrutiny as legal, regulated cannabis.
Delta-8 THC for example, is found in very low quantities naturally. Most products that contain Delta-8 are made from chemically synthesized CBD. Not a lot is known about long-term health risks associated with low-quality, untested Delta 8.
Cannabinoids & Altnoids
Below is a glossary of the major cannabinoids and hemp-derived alternative cannabinoids (altnoids).
CBD
Cannabidiol is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that occurs naturally in cannabis and hemp. Users report CBD to have a wide variety of potential health benefits.
CBN
Cannabinol is another non-psychoactive cannabinoid. CBN forms naturally when THC breaks down over time. Users report that CBN has strong sedative effects.
Delta 8 THC
As mentioned above, Delta 8 only occurs naturally small amounts. Its less potent than traditional THC but is still psychoactive.
Delta 9 THC
The most abundant cannabinoid. When you smoke or vaporize cannabis, THCa (Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) converts mainly into Delta-9 THC.
Delta 10
Like Delta 8, Delta 10 is natural but only found in trace amounts. It is less potent than Delta 9 but can still produce psychoactive effects.
HHC
HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) is lab-synthesized hydrogenated THC.
HHCO
A derivative of HHC, with stronger effects than regular HHC. To create HHC-O, naturally occurring HHC undergoes an additional chemical process.
THCO
THCO (O-acetyl-THC) is a non-natural cannabinoid. Many users consider it to be stronger than THC, with some reporting psychedelic effects.
THCP
THCP (Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabiphorol) is a naturally occuring compound known for its potency. Companies have to synthesize THC-P from CBD because its only found in trace amounts.
THCV
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) is unlike any other cannabinoids. It occurs naturally but needs additional extraction to reach high enough potency to be effective. Users report that it gives a caffeine-like boost to energy and suppresses appetite.
The Legal Landscape of Altnoids
One of the driving forces behind the popularity of altnoids like HHC and Delta-10 THC is their legal status. These compounds occupy a gray area of the market that allows for wide accessibility.
These cannabinoids are not explicitly illegal under federal law which is a key factor in their growing presence on the market. It should be noted that while these products may be available for sale, possession of these products could potentially result in legal consequences.
The following states have banned hemp-derived altnoids:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Idaho
- Iowa
- Mississippi
- Montana
- North Dakota
- Rhode Island
- Washington
The following states regulate the sale of hemp-derived altnoids:
- Minnesota
- Louisiana
- Kentucky
- South Dakota
- Virginia
- Vermont
- Florida
- Tennessee
- Connecticut
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Nevada
- Oregon
- Utah
- New York
Always check and comply with local laws and regulations regarding the sale and possession of any hemp-derived product.
Final Thoughts
Altnoids represent an interesting new development in the cannabis market. But, as with any new product, research is key to understanding the full risks and potential of altnoids. With each new study and clinical trial, we should come closer to understanding the properties, benefits, and the role they could play in the future of the cannabis market.
Sources:
Chemistry, Metabolism, and Toxicology of Cannabis
What Is THC-O Acetate, And Why Is It Getting Attention?
