Navigating the THCP Frontier: Unraveling Potency, Effects, and Research

In the ever-evolving landscape of cannabinoids, a new player has emerged, captivating the curiosity of hemp enthusiasts and researchers alike. Three years ago, Italian scientists stumbled upon THCP, an accidental discovery while exploring a medical strain known as FM2. Today, we embark on a journey to unravel the mysteries of THCP – its research findings, molecular distinctions, effects, legality, product range, and the ongoing quest for understanding its therapeutic potential.

THCP Research Findings:

In the realm of cannabinoids, THCP stands out with its unexpected potency. Discovered in 2019, THCP, or Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabiphorol, showcased a remarkable 33 times stronger binding affinity to CB1 and CB2 receptors compared to Delta-9 THC. These receptors, prevalent in the brain and immune system, play crucial roles in regulating various bodily functions.

Is THCP 33 Times Stronger than THC?

While THCP’s binding ability is indeed 33 times stronger than THC, it doesn’t translate to effects being 33 times stronger. The body has limits to cannabinoid receptor activation, leading to diminishing returns. However, anecdotal reports suggest that THCP feels 5 to 10 times stronger than regular Delta-9 THC, making it a promising candidate for medical cannabis research and product development.

THCP vs. THC: Molecular Difference

Delving into the molecular realm, THCP and THC are homologs, sharing the same chemical structure but differing in the number of atoms on their alkyl side chain. This distinction, with THCP possessing seven atoms, contributes to its heightened psychoactivity compared to Delta-9 THC.

How Much THCP is in Cannabis Plants?

Research quantifies THCP’s presence in cannabis plants, revealing trace amounts. In the FM2 ethanol extract, THCP measured at 29 micrograms/gram, emphasizing its scarcity in comparison to Delta-9 THC. With each milligram equating to 1,000 micrograms, the quantification places THCP in the realm of negligible amounts in cannabis plants.

How Is THCP Made?

Due to its trace quantities in cannabis plants, THCP is not naturally abundant. Manufacturers produce THCP using processes similar to those for Delta-8 and Delta-10. Starting with hemp-derived CBD, a chemical reaction involving acids and solvents converts CBD to THCP. The resulting THCP extract finds its way into various products, including vapes, edibles, concentrates, and even flower.

THCP Legality:

Navigating the legal landscape, Delta-9 THCP is technically legal nationwide since Delta-9 THC is the only federally illicit compound. Most manufacturers derive THCP from hemp-derived CBD, aligning with the 2018 Farm Bill’s federal legality of hemp and its derivatives. However, some states are considering legislation to regulate psychoactive hemp products, potentially affecting THCP’s status.

THCP Products:

As an emerging minor cannabinoid, THCP is making its mark in various products. While still relatively expensive to produce, THCP blends are becoming more prevalent. Brands like Binoid, Danklite, and Koi offer a range of THCP products, including vapes, edibles, wax dabs, tinctures, and disposable vapes.

THCP Effects:

Although clinical research on THCP’s effects is lacking, user reviews from Binoid suggest intense body and head buzzes. Consumers are advised to approach THCP cautiously due to its potent properties, with reports highlighting relaxation, quick sleep induction, and an overall chill-out effect.

THCP Therapeutic Potential:

While clinical research on THCP is in its infancy, in vivo pharmacological tests on human cells indicate similarities in effects to Delta-9 THC at about half the dose. These effects include analgesia (pain relief), hypomotility (slowing of movement), catalepsy (trance-like state), and decreased rectal temperature. The potential therapeutic value of THCP sparks interest in further agricultural genetics research.

THCP Potency Testing:

Accurate THCP potency testing is crucial due to its psychoactive strength. Laboratories like ACS Laboratory are at the forefront, incorporating precise methodologies to distinguish THCP from its homologs in chromatogram test results. With Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC-UV), THCP concentration in various products can be accurately determined.

What’s Bottom Line:

As we navigate the uncharted waters of THCP, there’s much more to learn about its effects and therapeutic potential. Initial research and user reviews position THCP as a potent compound worthy of attention, and laboratories like ACS Laboratory are committed to ensuring product quality through rigorous testing.

Join us in this exciting exploration of THCP, where potency meets potential, and the journey to understanding this novel cannabinoid continues. Stay informed, stay curious, and let’s unravel the mysteries together!