The growth of the cannabis industry means new cannabinoids are introduced regularly. Some are more potent than others. For example, THCP is known for its extreme potency. But how strong is THCP? From licensed cannabis dispensaries to reputable online shops, THCP has witnessed a meteoric rise to become one of the most popular hemp-derived cannabinoids in the industry. THCP is reported to be 33 times more potent than traditional THC. But is this really true? Numbers alone won’t provide insight into the THCP experience.
It’s important to understand how THCP works with your body to determine how much you should take and what to expect when you take it. Comparing THCP’s effects to Delta-9 THC to decide which is best suited for you is a good starting point. Keep reading as we take a nuanced look at how strong THCP is. We’ll examine the research, look at factors impacting potency, and help you understand the reasons behind its unprecedented strength.
What Is THCP?
THCP is a naturally occurring and extremely rare cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. It occurs in both hemp and marijuana plants. THCP is famous for its extremely potent euphoria, which research states is up to 33 times more potent than THC (Delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabinol, Delta 9 THC, D9 THC, or D9).
The cannabinoid goes by several names: Tetrahydrocannabiphorol, THCp, THC-P, THC-p, Delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabiphorol, Delta 9 THCp, Delta 9 THC-P, or Delta 9 THC-p, or THC Heptyl.
This cannabis plant cannabinoid was accidentally discovered in 2019 by Italian researchers working on UNIHEMP projects. They were examining existing marijuana strains used for medicinal purposes when their research inadvertently revealed a newly discovered cannabinoid — THCP. Researchers published a report later that year explaining its chemical structure, extraction methods, and how it binds to the endocannabinoid receptors in the human body.
THCP is related to Delta 9 THC and is considered to be a THC analog. However, their chemical structures differ. THCP’s chemical structure possesses an alkyl side chain composed of seven carbon atoms compared to Delta 9’s five carbon atoms. This unique chemical structure is the reason behind THCP’s distinct euphoria and psychoactive effects. We’ll discuss THCP’s interaction with your body’s cannabinoid receptors in detail later on.
Just how strong is the THCP cannabinoid? Cannabis enthusiasts may argue over how strong this potent psychoactive cannabinoid truly is. Some enthusiasts claim that it is 5-10 times stronger than THC. However, researchers have shown that it can potentially be up to 33 times as strong. Either way, this cannabinoid is not for beginners. Even experienced cannabis connoisseurs should go slow when consuming THCP. Start with small doses, wait to see how the effects impact you, and then increase gradually as needed.
How Strong Is THCP?
THCP is reportedly up to 33 times stronger than regular THC. However, THCP strength can vary. Although your THCP experience may be a potent one, it will depend on factors unique to you. THCP effects are influenced by your previous use, tolerance, consumption methods, medical history, and body weight, among other factors.
Cannabis consumers can go back and forth on THCP strength and how much stronger it is than Delta 9 THC, but the key to THCP’s potent effects lies in how it interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the human body.
The study the Italian researchers submitted measured THCP’s interaction with the human body’s endocannabinoid system’s (ECS) receptors, providing some scientific insight. THCP’s longer alkyl side chain, which contains two more carbon atoms than THC, allows it to bind more tightly to your ECS receptors.
The researchers observed how strongly the cannabinoid interacted with the CB1 receptor, which is connected to various mental functions. Cannabinoids that interact strongly with the CB1 receptor, such as THC, tend to produce more euphoric effects. The study showed that due to THCP’s longer alkyl side chain, it can bind with CB1 receptors at a rate 33 times stronger than THC.
They also considered how THCP binds with the CB2 receptor, which is linked to immunity and other aspects of physical health. Researchers found the binding affinity was 5-10 times stronger than Delta 9 THC. Therefore, the cannabinoid may provide various therapeutic benefits in addition to elevating euphoria. The research is still in its infancy, but THCP, like many other cannabinoids, shows great therapeutic potential.
How Is THCP Made?
Although THC-P is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in cannabis plants, it is extremely rare and very hard to source from legal hemp plants. However, it can be produced by semi-synthetically modifying CBD (Cannabidiol), a non-euphoric hemp plant cannabinoid famous for its mind-body wellness benefits. This allows manufacturers to make THC-P products from legal hemp plants.
Scientists often modify other cannabinoids due to scarcity. They create new products to meet customer demand. Just like Delta 8 THC, Delta 10 THC, HHC, and other THC analogs, THC-P is not the most abundant cannabinoid. Therefore, manufacturers typically generate abundant amounts via safe and clean semi-synthetic methods.
Is THCP Legal?
Yes, hemp-derived products containing THCP are 100% federally legal as long as they do not contain more than 0.3% THC. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized THCP and other hemp-derived cannabinoids as long as products containing them meet the aforementioned requirements.
However, state laws may differ from federal laws. This can make THCP products illegal in some states, with laws that run counter to the government’s more nuanced and open-minded stance. It’s always wise to check your state’s laws regarding hemp-derived products to ensure you’re on the right side of the law.
THCP’s Potency Compared to THC
The researchers who discovered and isolated THCP were able to determine that it is potentially up to 33 times more potent than THC. However, the true judge of potency is consumers of THCP products.
Those who have taken THCP report that the effects gradually set in. As the effects peak, get ready for an intense euphoria that bends reality, creating a vivid sensory experience where everything feels warped. You’ll experience amplified relaxation and strong couch-lock potential. The effects will wear off slowly, with many experiencing a comedown lasting several hours.
THCP potency may vary from batch to batch depending on manufacturing methods and the types of THCP products you consume. Enthusiasts may experience the cannabinoid differently due to biology, tolerance, environment, and other factors. However, there is no doubt that THCP is quite strong when compared to traditional THC.
How Does THCP Interact With Your Endocannabinoid Receptors?
When cannabinoids enter the body, they interact with the receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system. Your ECS is an internal network of cell-signaling receptors that helps to regulate several mind-body processes. These include mood, memory, appetite, digestion, mobility, sex drive, and rest.
Cannabinoids mainly interact with the CB1 and CB2 receptors. The CB1 receptor is linked to various mental functions, like mood and appetite, while the CB2 receptor is linked to several aspects of physical health, like immunity.
Cannabinoids, like THCP that interact with the CB1 receptor tend to produce more euphoric effects. THCP’s seven-carbon atom chemical makeup means it interacts strongly with the CB1, producing potent results. It also binds tightly with the CB2 receptor, establishing its wellness potential.
Since THCP products are so potent, they can provide an intense experience, even at smaller doses. A little goes a long way. Don’t overdo it when using this potent cannabinoid, especially if this is your first time taking it.
Potential Therapeutic Benefits of THCP’s Strength
Some cannabinoid enthusiasts will be enticed by THCp’s euphoric effects. But others will be more interested in its potential therapeutic benefits. THCp binds tightly with the CB2 receptor to improve various aspects of physical wellness.
A 2019 review looked at various cannabinoids for their ability to treat various health and wellness issues. While all the cannabinoids showed some potential to boost health, THC-p remained in the spotlight. It stood out for its strong binding affinity with the endocannabinoid receptors.
As a result, there is a growing interest in various THC-p products. More dispensaries are carrying THC-p vapes, tinctures, and edibles to help consumers meet their wellness needs. It will be interesting to see if and when it moves to a medical platform. But for the time being, you can enjoy THC-p effects recreationally.
Risks and Side Effects
THCP produces considerable wellness benefits but also offers its share of risks and side effects. These side effects typically occur due to irresponsible consumption. Remember: THCP is the world’s most potent cannabinoid. Do not take that as hyperbole. Start slow, and take it easy with this cannabinoid for an enjoyable and safe experience.
However, if you do happen to overindulge, you may experience some mild and temporary side effects.
- Dry Red Eyes. This is a common side effect of THC-p products. Consuming cannabis generally lowers your blood pressure, which dilates the blood vessels and increases blood flow throughout the body. Blood vessels in the eyes expand, making them look red and bloodshot.
- Dry Mouth. Cottonmouth or dry mouth is one of the effects that occur when THC interacts with the CB1 receptors, which can slow down saliva production. THC-p, being a THC analog, interacts strongly with the CB1 receptor, so you can expect a very dry mouth.
- Increased Heart Rate and Anxiousness. Cannabis has a relaxing effect on many people. But when taken at high doses, it could increase heart rate and produce anxiousness. This is another reason to go slowly when taking THC-p products.
- Positive Drug Test. THC-p is extremely potent. Therefore, it will stay in your system for a prolonged period. It may produce a positive result on standard drug tests because it resembles THC, which is what most drug testing looks for. A potential positive drug test may occur for all THC analogs, including THC-p.
Tips on THCP Dosage
Before enjoying THCP products, there are some things you need to know to have an enjoyable and safe experience. These principles not only apply to THCP products but to several hemp-derived cannabinoids.
- Consider the Consumption Method. The method of consumption can make a big difference in THCP effects. For example, edibles take a long time to hit. But when they do, they hit hard. Don’t take more THCP thinking it’s not working. THCP effects will present themselves all at once, providing very powerful results.
- Start Low. Always start with a low dose. Instead of eating a gummy, eat a half or a quarter gummy. When inhaling THCP vapes, take one short drag and wait a few minutes to see how you feel.
- Go Slow. You may not think THCP is hitting you, but it will. You just have to have a little patience. Consider how long it should take to hit based on the consumption method and wait it out. If you are sure it’s not affecting you, increase your dose gradually.
- Prioritize Quality. Emphasizing quality is very important when taking any cannabis product, but it’s especially essential when taking a potent cannabinoid like THCP. Purchase THCP products from a trusted brand that conducts lab testing to ensure they are pure and potent.
- Know Your Tolerance. Personal tolerance levels vary from person to person. You may be with a friend who consumes a lot of cannabis, and they may have the tolerance to consume a lot of THCP. However, if you are not used to this cannabinoid, you may have adverse effects and may regret having tried it. Always dose within your tolerances.
- Consult Experts or THCP Enthusiasts. An expert can help you on several levels. They can point out the best cannabis providers and products and recommend a dose that’s right for you. A trusted friend who has experience with THCP will guide you in the right direction. You may also talk to a doctor who believes in cannabis products, or you can do online research to find the information you require.
Final Thoughts – How Strong Is THCP? [Unleash 33X THC Potency!]
Just how strong is the THCP cannabinoid? Current research states that it can be up to 33 times more potent than traditional THC. THCP’s powerful effects result from its chemical structure, which possesses an alkyl side chain that contains two more carbon atoms than THC’s. As a result, THCP has a greater binding affinity to your body’s endocannabinoid receptors, specifically those in the brain, which leads to powerful, long-lasting euphoria. However, you may not experience up to 33 times THC elevation because THCP strength can vary according to the product and the consumer. Past experience, tolerance, frequency of consumption, and product potency impact how strong THCP can be for you.
Always tread lightly when consuming this powerful cannabinoid. THCP is a recently discovered cannabinoid whose strength makes it an interesting recreational product. But what’s even more insightful about this cannabis plant compound is its potential to provide health benefits. It may help to support sleep, boost mental health, lower physical discomfort, and much more. Future research will reveal how THCP makes its mark on the cannabis industry. Curious about THCP? Try our powerful, federally legal, hemp-derived THCP products today, and get ready for a powerful sensory adventure!
