The rapidly expanding cannabis industry, two hemp-derived cannabinoids have begun to distinguish themselves from the pack: THCp and THC-O. These THC analogs have piqued the interest of both researchers and consumers due to their high potency compared to THC. But which cannabinoid reigns supreme? But the battle between THCp vs THC-O is about more than just potency.
The cannabis world wants to know what makes each one unique, what benefits they offer, how they affect you, and what the law says about them. Keep reading as we compare and contrast THCp and THC-O to help you figure out which one might be the best fit for you and your needs.
What Is THCp?
THCp, or Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (also written as THCP, THC-p, or THC-P) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in cannabis plants. However, it exists in much lower amounts than its well-known cousin, Delta 9 THC (Delta-9 THC, D9, D9 THC, D9-THC, or THC). Concentrations generally remain below 0.1%. Despite its scarcity, THCp has garnered significant attention for its potency and ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in unique and powerful ways. In 2019, Italian scientists were ablt to isolate the cannabinoid. Due to it’s unique molecular structure and interaction with the ECS, scientists were able to determine that THCp has the potential to be up to 33 times more potent than THC!
Is THCp Stronger Than THC?
Yes, THCp is stronger than THC, by up to 33 times! Studies suggest that THCp may be the most potent cannabinoid discovered so far, with more potent euphoric effects than conventional THC. Its molecular structure allows it to bind to cannabinoid receptors, particularly the CB1 receptor, more effectively, resulting in heightened emotional and sensory perception even at lower doses.
How Is THCp Made?
Unlike synthetic cannabinoids, THCp occurs naturally within cannabis and hemp plants. However, due to its low concentrations, its extraction and concentration into usable forms require sophisticated techniques. The process usually involves advanced chromatography methods to isolate and purify THCp from other cannabis compounds.
Manufacturers produce THC-p by first extracting CBD from hemp or cannabis strains. Then, they convert CBD to THC-p using acids and solvents in a chemical reaction known as a synthesis reaction. This process creates THC-p extract, used in various products like vape cartridges, disposable vapes, edibles, concentrates, and hemp flower sprayed with THC-p distillate.
What Is THC-O?
THC-O acetate, often simply THC-O, and also written as THCO, THC-O-acetate, THC acetate ester, O-acetyl-THC, or AcO-THC, is a synthetic cannabinoid. It does not occur naturally in cannabis plants. THCO stands apart from other cannabinoids because of its synthesis process. Unlike naturally occurring compounds like THCp, THC-O is a synthetic cannabinoid created in a laboratory setting. Its reputation as a potent psychoactive substance has piqued the curiosity of those eager to explore the depths of the cannabis experience.
How Is THC-O Made?
Synthesizing THC-O involves chemical reactions with cannabinoids extracted from either marijuana plants or hemp plants. The process typically requires acetic anhydride, a highly reactive compound, to transform THCa or Delta 9 THC into THC-O acetate, a molecule with distinct and powerful effects.
Synthesizing THC-O requires a chemical process involving CBD from hemp and acetic anhydride. Here’s a simplified overview of how to make THC-O. First, CBD from hemp undergoes a conversion process to Delta-8 THC. Further processing turns it into Delta 9. Using solvents like ethanol, CO2, or sulfuric acid. Subsequently, we mix the THC with acetic anhydride under controlled acidic conditions. This mixture then undergoes a chemical reaction, resulting in the creation of THC-O-acetate.
Following the reaction, the crude THC-O-acetate undergoes purification to eliminate impurities and byproducts, yielding a refined THC-O product. It’s essential to note that this synthesis process requires specialized equipment, expertise, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Consequently, attempting to synthesize THC-O or any THC analog at home is not advisable. Qualified professionals typically carry out the production of THC-O in controlled laboratory settings.
Is THC-O Stronger Than THC?
THC-O is renowned for its potency, often considered three times stronger than traditional THC thanks to its molecular structure. Its modified chemical structure, notably the addition of the acetate molecule, enhances its ability to promote euphoria. It accomplishes this by crossing the blood-brain barrier more efficiently, leading to more intense euphoria.
THCp vs THC-O – Differences in Chemical Structure
Despite their similarities in offering more potent psychoactive effects than regular THC, THCp and THCO diverge significantly in their chemical structures. THCp’s structure is defined by the number of carbon atoms in its alkyl side chain, with seven carbon atoms compared to THC’s five. This small molecular difference results in a drastic increase in affinity for the endocannabinoid receptors. On the other hand, THC-O’s chemical novelty comes from the acetate group added through synthetic processing, transforming it into an ester of THC, which is not found in cannabis plants in its synthesized form.
THCp vs THC-O – Interaction With Your Body’s Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a crucial role in regulating a variety of bodily functions and is composed of cannabinoid receptors scattered throughout the human body. Cannabinoids interact with two types of ECS receptors: CB1 receptors in your central nervous system (CNS) and CB2 receptors in your peripheral nervous system (PNS).
THCp and THC-O are two compounds that interact with this system, but in different ways. THCp binds with a high affinity to CB1 endocannabinoid receptor, akin to but more potent than Delta 9 THC, leading to its potent psychoactive effects. THC-O’s psychoactive prowess is amplified by its ester form, allowing easier access through the blood-brain barrier and a more significant impact upon the central nervous system. The potent cannabinoid interacts with the CB1 receptor as well.
THCp vs THC-O – Which Cannabinoid Is Stronger?
Determining which cannabinoid is “stronger” depends on the metrics used. If potency refers to the capacity to elicit potent psychoactive effects, then THC-O might take the lead due to its structural modification that enhances its efficacy in the human body. However, THCp’s natural, robust interaction with cannabinoid receptors also positions it as a contender for the strongest cannabinoid discovered to date, providing intense effects at surprisingly low doses.
THCp vs THC-O – Examining Their Benefits
The potential therapeutic benefits of these cannabinoids are as intriguing as their psychoactive properties. While more research is needed, anecdotal evidence suggests they could offer innovative paths for pain relief, anxiety reduction, and possibly even treatments for certain disorders.
What Are the Benefits of THC-O?
Anecdotal evidence points to THC-O’s sedative properties and ability to induce a deep state of relaxation and altered perception. Users report experiencing a unique blend of psychedelic and euphoric effects, which could hold potential for therapeutic applications, particularly for individuals dealing with high levels of stress or anxiety.
What Are the Benefits of THC-p?
THC-p’s potential goes beyond its psychoactive intensity. Its interaction with the endocannabinoid system suggests it may share similar therapeutic benefits with other cannabinoids, such as aiding in pain relief, reducing inflammation, and potentially helping with sleep disorders due to its powerful effects.
THCp vs THC-O – Potential Side Effects
All cannabinoids, including THCp and THC-O, can produce side effects, particularly at high doses. Many have reported THC-O effects to be intense experiences, sometimes too overwhelming for those not accustomed to such potent effects. Similarly, THCp’s efficacy means that its side effects can also be much stronger compared to traditional THC, including altered sensory perception and a heightened emotional state.
THC-O vs THC-P – Safety Considerations
Given their potency, consume THCp and THC-O with caution, especially for those new to cannabis products. Starting with low doses and gradually adjusting based on personal tolerance and experience is prudent. Additionally, purchasing from reputable sources is crucial to ensure product purity and safety.
THCp vs THC-O – Legal Status Explained
Is THCp Legal?
Hemp-derived THCp products are federally legal as long as they contain 0.3% or less THC. THCp’s status varies by jurisdiction. However, laws are evolving regarding hemp. Your state may have certain laws in place that and it’s essential to check current regulations in your area.
Is THC-O Legal?
The legal status of THC-O is complex. Despite being a synthetic cannabinoid, its derivation from legally cultivated hemp can create a gray area under federal law. That said, due to its potent psychoactive effects, several states have moved to specifically regulate or ban THC-O, making it crucial to stay informed about the laws in your locality.
THC-p vs THC-O – Types of Products Available
Legal THC-p Products Available for Purchase Online and in Stores
THC-p is available in various formulations, including oils, tinctures, edibles, and vape cartridges. Each consumption method offers a different onset time and duration of effects, allowing users to choose products that best suit their preferences and needs.
THC-O Products Available for Purchase Online and in Stores
Similar to THC-p, THC-O products come in a range of options, such as vape pens, tinctures, gummies, and more. The synthetic nature of THC-O allows for versatility and varying consumption. This provides consumers a broad spectrum of experiences to explore.
Can You Detect THCO and THCp in Drug Tests?
Current drug tests detect metabolites of Delta 9 THC, the most common form of THC found in cannabis plants. Since THCO and THCp have different chemical structures, they may not be readily identifiable with standard testing. However, given the limited research, it’s best to proceed with caution if drug testing is a concern.
THC-O vs THC-p – Which One Is Right for Me?
Choosing between THC-p and THC-O depends on your personal preferences, desired effects, and tolerability. Those looking for a more intense, potentially psychedelic experience might gravitate towards THC-O, while individuals seeking potent effects from a naturally occurring cannabinoid might prefer THC-p. Always start with lower doses to gauge your reaction.
THCO and THCP vs Other Cannabinoids
When comparing THCO and THCp to other cannabinoids like CBD, Delta 8 THC, and CBG, it’s clear that they offer distinct experiences primarily centered around their potent psychoactive and potentially therapeutic effects. Each cannabinoid has unique properties and benefits, making the cannabis plant an incredibly rich source of compounds for exploration.
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Final Thoughts – THCp vs THC-O [Find Out Which Cannabinoid Reigns Supreme]
THC-p and THC-O stand out for their unique properties. They offer experiences that range from deeply relaxing to profoundly euphoric. However, there are some key differences between these two new cannabinoids. THCp is among one of many hemp-derived cannabinoids that exist in nature. THCO on the other hand, does not occur naturally. It is an entirely synthetic cannabinoid.
Whether you’re drawn to the natural allure of THC-p or the synthesized potency of THC-O, each cannabinoid presents a path to exploring elevating euphoria and profound sensory and emotional depths. Unlike THC-O, hemp-derived THCp products are legal at the federal level and available for purchase in most states. Navigating the complexities of these potent compounds, from their effects and benefits to their legal status and safety considerations, provides a valuable framework for making informed decisions aligned with your personal wellness goals. Shop our THCp products today and find the one that’s right for your needs!
