In recent years, the cannabis industry has seen a spike of popularity as more and more people are exposed to the different benefits that the plant has to offer. Whether it be body aches, trouble sleeping, anxiousness, or issues with appetite, there could very well be a cannabinoid to aid your problem.
Delta 9-THC and Delta-8 THC are two of the more mainstream cannabinoids that you’ve more than likely heard of that produce psychoactive effects when consumed. Some of the newer discoveries include Delta-10, HHC, and THC-O. Today we’re going to cover THC-P, the strongest member of the THC family that is potentially up to 33 times more potent than Delta 9.
What is THC-P?
THC-P, which is known as Tetrahydrocannabiphorol or scientifically known as (-)-Trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabiphoro, is a natural cannabinoid as well as an analog of THC. This cannabinoid was discovered in 2019 by Italian researchers, and there is very little research out there besides a published scientific report that they released. While it is found naturally in the cannabis plant, it has a very low concentration which makes it more efficient to produce in a lab rather than trying to extract it using chromatography techniques.
Let’s dive a little into the science behind THC-P. The reason THC-P is considered to be the strongest is because of how it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). It binds to the CB1 receptors 33 times more than regular Delta-9. In order to feel the psychoactive effects, a cannabinoid must have at least three carbon atoms in an alkyl side chain. THC has five carbon atoms on its alkyl side chain while THC-P has seven! With that said, THC-P requires only a fraction of the dose of THC in order to feel similar effects and was found to be 30 times more intense to be exact.
What are the Potential Benefits of THC-P?
Before we dive into this it is important to understand that the majority of information regarding THC-P benefits and effects come from anecdotal evidence, and there is no research about the cannabinoid other than what was discovered by the original team of Italian researchers. Even though there is a lack of research, the medical uses and potential benefits seem promising.
From user reports, we have found that the effects of THC-P are like a stronger version of Delta-9 and require a much lower dose of consumption. Because THC-P reacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system similar to THC we can assume they share many of the same benefits.
Potential benefits include:
- Reduces anxiety
- Pain relief
- Reduces inflammation
- Increase of appetite
- Reduces nausea
- Improves sleep
- Stress relief
THC-P could provide many potential medical benefits because of its increased potency. One of the benefits included would be more pain-relief than THC for those who require it for therapeutic use. It could also be more effective at combating insomnia. Only time will tell what all this super cannabinoid has to offer.
For those looking to experience THC-P recreationally, you can expect to enjoy a more powerful experience from the added potency. Proceed with caution because if you consume more than expected it could lead to very unwanted effects.
What are the Potential Risks and Side Effects of THC-P?
With very limited research, it is up to you as a consumer if you wish to partake in the consumption of THC-P. We recommend proceeding with caution and only purchase from trusted vendors that provide transparency and lab results.
For those who are new to cannabis it is important to understand that THC-P is potentially even more psychoactive than THC meaning it is easier to over consume and experience uncomfortable side effects.
Potential side effects include:
- Anxiety
- Lethargy
- Paranoia
- Dry Mouth
- Red Eyes
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Sleepiness
These side effects could be amplified compared to when overconsuming THC because of how they bind more effectively to your CB1 receptor.
How can I Consume THC-P?
Similar to many other cannabinoids, THC-P can be consumed in a variety of different ways. There are different products offered depending on your favorite method of consumption
Products for consumption include:
- THC-P cartridges
- THC-P disposables
- THC-P tinctures
- THC-P dabs
- THC-P gummies
Is THC-P Legal and Will it Show up on a Drug Test?
THC-P is in a gray area regarding the legality of the cannabinoid. There are those that argue it’s protected under the 2018 Farm Bill which legalized the hemp plant and all of its derivatives as long as they carry no more than 0.3% THC. There are also those who argue that although it isn’t listed as a controlled substance under the federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA), it is still an analog of THC. The Federal Analogue Act prohibits all analogs of THC unless removed by law.
In the United States, each state has the jurisdiction to create its own laws around THC and the other cannabinoids. This means it is important to do your research about your state’s laws before purchasing and consuming THC-P.
Now I’m sure you’re wondering if THC-P will show up on a drug test. Unfortunately, most drug tests aren’t sensitive enough to tell the difference between THC-P and THC. Without proper research it is unknown how long THC-P stays in your system. With that said it is better to stay on the safe side and not risk failing a drug test. If you don’t have to worry about a drug test then feel free to try out this amazing cannabinoid.