What Is Delta 6a10a THC?

Illustration of Delta 6a10a chemical structure
Written by Nina Julia | Last updated: November 3, 2023

Delta 6a10a THC, also called delta-3 THC, is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid and THC isomer occurring in trace amounts in cannabis.

It’s also a semi-synthetic cannabinoid when manufacturers convert CBD or THC into it using specialized catalysts.

The primary effects of delta 6a10a THC include mental euphoria and physical relaxations in doses upwards of 8 mg.

These effects are similar to delta 8 THC but less pronounced. When it comes to the health benefits of delta 6a10a THC, they’re somewhat unknown, but since it derives from THC, you may expect similar relief from pain and inflammation, as well as support for neuroprotection, healthy sleep, and appetite.

In this article, we present everything there is to know about delta 6a10a THC, its effects, health benefits, adverse reactions, and legal status.

What is Delta 6a10a THC?

Delta 6a10a THC has many names. Whether you see someone mention D6a or delta-3 THC, it’s the same minor cannabinoid and one of seven THC isomers that naturally occur in hemp and marijuana.

Producers use chemical catalysts to convert it from CBD or delta 9 THC. Chemical synthesis involves changing the molecular structure of these two cannabinoids using specialized equipment.

Delta 6a10a THC is a mild intoxicant and can get you gently high, similar to the effects of delta 8 THC but with less potency. Some users report sativa-like effects such as mental stimulation, pain relief, and mood enhancement after consumption.

Molecular Structure of Delta 6a10a THC

The chemical formula of delta 6a10a THC is C21H30O2. In plain English, it consists of 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms.

Despite a similar chemical formula to THC and CBD, the arrangement of atoms on their molecular chains is different, causing respectively different effects on the body and mind.

Delta 6a10a THC Has Two Enantiomers

Cannabinoids have their own enantiomers. With delta 6a10a THC, these are 1S and 1R.

Imagine you have two identical screws that look the same and come with similar physical qualities. However, one screw can only turn one way and the other goes only in the opposite direction.

Using this analogy, the 1S enantiomer enters the body and screws clockwise, inducing similar euphoria to delta 8 THC. On the contrary, the 1R enantiomers have no intoxicating effects because it screws up anticlockwise.

Studies on Delta 6a10a THC

The studies on delta 6a10a THC are few and far between because it’s a recently discovered isomer of delta 9. However, of the studies available, we’ve found delta 6a10a THC an intriguing cannabinoid with outstanding potential in treating convulsions.

Here’s what research says on the effects and health benefits of delta 6a10a THC.

Delta 6a10a THC’s Effects: What’s the Optimal Dose?

In a 1987 study, the authors found that delta 6a10a THC begins to produce intoxicating effects at 8 mg or higher in human participants, causing a noticeable change in heart rate and some gentle behavioral differences.

The research team also reported that delta 6a10a had almost the same effects as delta 1 THC, which is the least potent of all THC isomers.

The findings from this study are contradictory to what most users are saying. People who have tried delta 6a10a THC compare the effects to delta 8 and delta 10 THC, both of which offer a moderately potent high in relatively low doses.

Anticonvulsant Properties of Synthetic Delta 6a10a THC

Delta 6a10a THC has a synthetic analog called EA-1477, whose anticonvulsant properties were mentioned in a study on dogs in the 1950s. The authors found that EA1477 was successful in blocking electroshock-induced seizures.

The anticonvulsant and seizure-reducing properties of this compound are similar to those of delta 6a10a THC. However, while THC makes the user feel high, EA-1477 demonstrated significantly less potent mind-altering effects.

Interestingly, both THC and CBD are potent anticonvulsants used in anti-epileptic drugs. For example, CBD is the primary ingredient of Epidiolex, while THC contributes to the muscle-relaxing effects of Sativex.

Delta 6a10a THC Benefits: What is It Good for?

Although research on the effects of delta 6a10a THC isn’t as advanced as with CBD or delta 9 THC, we can assume that it has similar benefits to THC.

Delta 6a10a derives from THC — it’s an isomer — meaning they have an almost identical chemical structure and pharmacology activity when absorbed by your body.

Keeping that in mind, we can say delta 6a10a THC likely has the same benefits as THC, such as:

  • Neuroprotection
  • Painkiller
  • Anti-inflammation
  • Appetite stimulation
  • Sleep
  • Antibacterial

Effects: What Does Delta 6a10a THC Feel Like?

The effects of delta 6a10a THC are mildly intoxicating, with a balance between mental high and physical relaxation. This results from delta 6a10a THC’s ability to interact with CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system.

Those who have had an opportunity to try delta 6a10a THC describe the euphoric effects as similar to a delta 8 high but roughly with ¾ of its potency. Some users also attribute Sativa-like effects, including mood elevation, better focus, and an increase in energy.

The most interesting fact about delta 6a10a THC’s effects is it can strengthen the effects of other THC isomers. When you browse through forums like Reddit, you’ll notice some users suggesting a combination of delta 8 and delta 10 THC with some delta 6a10a as a way to achieve a strong euphoric high.

Is Delta 6a10a THC Legal?

Yes, delta 6a10a THC is federally legal as long as it comes from hemp and contains no more than 0.3% delta 9 THC. The Controlled Substances Act of 1970 doesn’t mention this isomer anywhere, so what’s not prohibited by the law is automatically allowed.

However, when your delta 6a10a product is sourced from marijuana and contains more than the legally acceptable amount of delta 9 THC, it’s illegal and criminalized under federal law. You must live in one of the 17 states that have legalized marijuana for recreational use to enjoy marijuana-derived delta 6a10a THC extracts.

Delta 6a10a THC vs. Other Cannabinoids

Now that you know the difference between delta 6a10a THC and delta 9 THC, let’s focus on how it compares to other isomers and to CBD.

Delta 6a10a THC vs Delta-10 THC

  • Both cannabinoids are isomers occurring in cannabis in negligible amounts. They can be synthesized from isolated CBD or THC.
  • Delta 6a10a THC and Delta 10 THC can get you high — delta 10 is about 60% more potent than delta 6a10a THC
  • There are many delta 6a10a THC products falsely labeled as delta 10 due to the lack of lab testing
  • Since delta 6a101 and delta 10 are both isomers of THC, they produce the same effects and offer the same health benefits — but with different strengths.

Delta 6a10a THC vs CBD

  • Delta 6a10a THC and CBD have a strikingly similar chemical formula but they use different pathways to interact with your body and brain.
  • Delta 6a10a THC is a mild CB2 and CB2 agonist, causing intoxication. CBD is a non-intoxicant; it won’t impair your thinking, judgment, or alter the perception of your surroundings.
  • However, CBD is, by all means, psychoactive, even though it’s non-intoxicating. The official definition of the word “psychoactive” is “affective one’s mind and behavior”, and CBD uses certain mechanisms that subtly change your mood, behavior, and perception without getting you high.

Key Takeaways on Delta 6a10a THC

Delta 6a10a THC, also known as delta-3 THC, isn’t a groundbreaking cannabinoid or something worth particular attention. It has the same effects and health benefits as other versions of THC, but it comes with less euphoria and fewer physical sensations.

Despite scarce research, scientists are optimistic when it comes to the anticonvulsant properties of delta 6a10a THC. The cannabinoid may be particularly useful in treating epileptic seizures or muscle spasticity induced by neurodegenerative conditions.

Currently, delta 6a10a products aren’t as popular as other isomers. If anything, we can expect it added to those isomers as a way to potentiate their intoxicating effects.

Have you tried delta 6a10a THC? How did you like it and what forms did you enjoy the most?

Nina created CFAH.org following the birth of her second child. She was a science and math teacher for 6 years prior to becoming a parent — teaching in schools in White Plains, New York and later in Paterson, New Jersey.