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Delta-9-cis-tetrahydrocannabinol

Same letters, different 3D shape. cis-Δ9-THC is a stereoisomer of Δ9-THC, and stereochemistry is not a cute detail. It changes receptor fit, potency, and the confidence level of any claim you see online.

Formula: C21H30O2 Molar Mass: 314.47 g/mol CAS: 6087-73-6 PubChem CID: 12831993 InChIKey: CYQFCXCEBYINGO-SJORKVTESA-N

cis-Δ9-THC Infographic

cis-Δ9-THC (Delta-9-cis-tetrahydrocannabinol) infographic showing the 2D molecule structure, verified identifiers, stereochemistry note, and practical dry herb vaporizer session guidance

What It Is

Delta-9-cis-tetrahydrocannabinol (cis-Δ9-THC) is a stereoisomer of Δ9-THC. It shares the same molecular formula (C21H30O2), but the 3D arrangement differs from the better-known trans isomer that dominates most cannabis chemotype discussions.

If the label does not specify stereochemistry, it is probably not specifying reality either.

Why The cis Part Matters

Δ9-THC has stereogenic centers, meaning it can exist as multiple stereoisomers. cis-Δ9-THC is not “another name” for Δ9-THC. It is a different 3D configuration, and that can change how strongly it interacts with cannabinoid receptors and other targets.

Same Formula C21H30O2, just like Δ9-THC. Identity does not stop at the formula.
Different Shape Different stereochemistry can change receptor fit and perceived potency.
Easy To Confuse “cis THC” gets mixed up online with “regular THC” constantly. Verify by identifiers.
Harder Claims Effects are less established than mainstream Δ9-THC. Do not accept hype as data.

Natural Vs Synthetic

cis-Δ9-THC has been identified in certain cannabis materials and discussed in the scientific literature as a naturally occurring component in some contexts, while also being produced synthetically for research, forensics, and analytical reference standards.

  • Natural occurrence: reported in specific cannabis varieties and contexts in the literature.
  • Synthetic availability: commonly sold as a reference standard (often racemic mixtures in lab catalogs).
  • Takeaway: it can be both. Your job is to verify which compound you are actually talking about.

Want the bigger picture view: Cannabinoids Hub.

Chemical Identity

These anchors keep pages accurate and keep copycats from turning chemistry into fan fiction.

Molecular Formula C21H30O2
Molar Mass 314.47 g/mol
CAS Number 6087-73-6
PubChem CID 12831993

Verify fast: PubChem: delta9-CIS-TETRAHYDROCANNABINOL (CID 12831993) · Cayman Chemical: (±)-cis-Δ9-THC reference standard

Vaporizing Notes

There is no single, universally reliable consumer temperature that isolates cis-Δ9-THC in a dry herb session. Flower is a matrix. Cannabinoids, terpenes, acids, and byproducts ride together.

Practical Stepped Session Strategy

  • Warm Up: 365 to 375°F
  • Main Extraction: 385 to 400°F
  • Finish Only If Needed: 405 to 410°F

For the fundamentals behind the method: Vape Vs Combustion: The Art Of Vaporizing .

Faq

Is cis-Δ9-THC The Same As “Regular” Δ9-THC?

No. Most consumer references to Δ9-THC are talking about the trans isomer. cis-Δ9-THC is a different stereoisomer. Verify identity using CAS and PubChem records.

Is cis-Δ9-THC Natural?

It has been reported in cannabis in the scientific literature and is also produced synthetically for research and reference standards.

Is There A Best Vaporizing Temperature For cis-Δ9-THC?

Not reliably. Use a stepped temperature approach for consistent extraction, and avoid chasing one number.

Where Can I Find More Elev8 Cannabinoid Pages?

Use the hub: Cannabinoids.

Sources

Every item below is a live link.

Educational content only. Not medical advice. Cannabis can impair. Do not drive. If you have a medical condition or take medications, consult a qualified clinician.