DOPE Cannabis Education & Stoner Stories

Published by DOPE on September 29, 2024

THC-P (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol) has recently emerged in the cannabis world, stirring up conversations and curiosity as one of the most potent cannabinoids. Stated by some to be up to 33 times more potent than traditional THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol)—the psychoactive compound that gets you high when you convert THCA flower into THC—THC-P is gaining attention for its potential effects. But will it really get you 33 times higher? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about THC-P, its potency, legality, and what this means for cannabis enthusiasts.

What is THC-P?

THC-P is a naturally occurring phytocannabinoid discovered in 2019 by Italian researchers. Structurally similar to THC, THC-P differs by having seven carbon atoms on its alkyl side chain, compared to THC’s five. This difference allows THC-P to bind more effectively to the body’s CB1 receptors, which are primarily responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabinoids. This enhanced binding affinity to cannabinoid receptors, including both CB1 and CB2, contributes to THC-P's increased potency and pronounced effects.

Key Points:

• Discovery: Identified in 2019 in cannabis samples.
• Chemical Structure: Seven-term alkyl side chain increases CB1 receptor affinity.
• Natural Occurrence: Found in very low concentrations in cannabis plants.
• THCp Binds: THCp binds more effectively to CB1 receptors, contributing to its enhanced potency.

Is THC-P Really 33 Times Stronger Than Traditional THC as a Potent Cannabinoid?

The claim that THC-P is 33 times stronger than THC primarily stems from its binding affinity to CB1 receptors. Studies have shown that THC-P binds to these receptors with up to 33 times the affinity of THC. However, this does not necessarily translate to being 33 times more psychoactive in real-world use.

The enhanced binding affinity of THC-P may also lead to more significant therapeutic benefits, such as better management of chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia.

Understanding Potency:

• Binding Affinity: Higher affinity means THC-P binds more readily to receptors but doesn’t linearly increase psychoactive effects. THCp binds more effectively to CB1 receptors, suggesting a potency increase of up to 33 times compared to Delta-9 THC.
• Psychoactive Effects: Users have reported that THC-P feels stronger than THC, but experiences vary.
• Research Limitations: Limited human studies make it difficult to quantify exact potency differences.

Note: While THC-P may have stronger effects, it’s unlikely to make you feel 33 times higher. Always approach new cannabinoids with caution.

How Does THC-P Work with Cannabinoid Receptors?

THC-P interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) much like THC but with greater efficacy due to its molecular structure. THC-P is often derived from hemp-derived cannabinoids, which are abundant and federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill.

Effects on the Body:

• CB1 Receptors: THCp binds more effectively to CB1 receptors, suggesting a potency increase of up to 33 times, which may lead to more pronounced psychoactive effects.
• Potential Benefits: May offer stronger analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and appetite-stimulating properties.
• Side Effects: Possible increased risk of anxiety, paranoia, or other THC-related side effects at higher doses.

THC-P and the Cannabis Plant

THC-P is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found within the cannabis plant, specifically in the trichomes of the plant’s flowers and leaves. Discovered relatively recently, THC-P has sparked significant interest due to its potential effects, which are said to be up to 33 times more potent than traditional THC. Despite its powerful effects, THC-P is present in very low concentrations, typically less than 0.1% in hemp plants (Cannabis sativa). This minor cannabinoid, though found in such small amounts, has captured the attention of researchers and cannabis enthusiasts alike, eager to explore its unique properties and potential benefits.

Origin and Relationship:

THC-P Products and Retail

As THC-P continues to gain popularity, a variety of THC-P products are becoming increasingly available in the market. Retailers are now offering a range of products, including vapes, disposable vapes, tinctures, and edibles, catering to the diverse preferences of cannabis enthusiasts. The availability of these products largely depends on the legal status of THC-P in different jurisdictions. In the United States, for instance, THC-P products are accessible in some states, but their legality is not uniform and may evolve over time. As demand for THC-P products grows, more retailers are expected to enter the market, expanding the selection and availability of these potent cannabinoid products.

Availability and Market:

Laboratory Production of THC-P

The production of THC-P typically involves the conversion of CBD, the most abundant cannabinoid in hemp plants, into THC-P. This process requires advanced extraction technologies and specialized laboratory equipment to isolate and purify THC-P. The synthesis of THC-P is a complex procedure that demands significant expertise and precision. As the interest in THC-P products continues to rise, more laboratories are expected to develop and refine methods for producing high-quality THC-P. This growth in laboratory production will likely lead to an increase in the availability and variety of THC-P products, meeting the burgeoning demand from cannabis enthusiasts.

Synthesis and Methods:

Legal Status of THC-P

The legal status of THC-P is complex and varies by jurisdiction. THCp legal status is influenced by the 2018 Farm Bill, which allows hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC.

In the United States:

• Federal Law: Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC are federally legal. THC-P derived from legal hemp plants may fall under this category.
• State Laws: Some states have specific laws banning analogs of THC or all tetrahydrocannabinols, which could include THC-P.
• Uncertainty: The novelty of THC-P means it’s not explicitly addressed in many legal frameworks.

Recommendation: Check your local state laws before purchasing or consuming THC-P products.

Safety and Potential Side Effects

Due to limited research, the safety profile of THC-P is not well-established.

Potential Risks:

• Unknown Long-Term Effects: Lack of studies means long-term health impacts are uncertain.
• Increased Side Effects: Higher potency may lead to stronger side effects typical of THC, such as dizziness, anxiety, or increased heart rate.
• Dosage Caution: Start with very low doses to assess individual tolerance.
• Drug Testing: THC-P may be detected in standard drug testing, leading to positive results due to its structural similarities to THC.

User Experiences:

• Anecdotal Reports: Users report intensified versions of THC effects.
• Variability: Effects can vary widely between individuals.
• Drug Tests: Users should be aware that THC-P may cause positive results on drug tests, similar to traditional THC.

Should You Try THC-P?

If you’re considering trying THC-P, keep the following in mind:

• Legal Considerations: Ensure it’s legal in your area.
• Source Quality: Purchases from DOPE are reputable and provide third-party lab testing.
• Personal Tolerance: Be aware of your own tolerance to cannabinoids.
• THCp Products: Ensure you purchase from reputable sources that provide third-party lab testing for THCp products.

Conclusion

THC-P is an intriguing addition to the cannabinoid family, offering potentially stronger effects due to its higher affinity for CB1 receptors. As one of the potent cannabinoids, it’s been stated to be significantly more potent than THC, though claims of it being 33 times stronger are not fully supported by scientific evidence. As with any cannabinoid, especially newer ones with limited research, it’s important to proceed with caution, stay informed, and prioritize safety.

Discover more about the evolving world of cannabinoids at DOPE. Stay tuned for our latest product drops and educational articles to keep you informed and ahead of the curve.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before trying new cannabis products. Check local laws to ensure compliance with all regulations.