In the world of mood edibles, cannabinoids are a go-to main ingredient. Apart from giving you a nice buzz, they can chill you out, increase your energy, help you sleep, and more. But one cannabinoid, THCP, has made waves with its recent discovery.
Brought to the spotlight by a team of Italian researchers, THCP was discovered accidentally in 2019, but these scientists didn't just find a new cannabinoid— they found a compound much, much stronger than anything else discovered to date.
While this compound is still relatively new, we do know enough about it to know it’s strong, fun, and safe. Let’s go over everything we know about THCP products, cannabis’s strongest compound, so far.
Understanding Cannabinoids
Before diving into THCP, let’s take a step back and quickly go over cannabinoids in general— what they are, what they do, and how they work to influence the human body.
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant. They interact with the ECS, or endocannabinoid system, a complex cell-signaling system that plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis.
The ECS comprises cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), and enzymes that synthesize and degrade these cannabinoids.
Cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, called phytocannabinoids, mimic the function of endocannabinoids, binding to the same receptors and influencing various physiological processes such as pain, mood, appetite, and immune response.
So, to summarize, endocannabinoids already exist in our bodies naturally and do not come from the cannabis plants. Inversely, phytocannabinoids do come from the cannabis plant and do not exist naturally in our bodies. Got that?
The history of cannabinoid research dates back to the 1940s when scientists first isolated and identified these compounds.
Over the decades, research has unveiled the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids, leading to the development of various medical cannabis products.
Notable cannabinoids like THC and CBD have been extensively studied for their effects and benefits since then. Now, onto the good stuff.
The Discovery of THCP
THCP was discovered relatively recently in 2019 by a team of Italian researchers led by Dr. Giuseppe Cannazza. The discovery was part of a broader study aimed at identifying new cannabinoids in a medicinal cannabis variety known as FM2.
Using advanced mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography techniques, the researchers isolated and identified THCP as a novel cannabinoid with an elongated alkyl side chain.
The initial findings, published in the journal *Scientific Reports*, revealed that THCP has a seven-carbon alkyl chain, compared to THC's five-carbon chain.
This structural difference was hypothesized to enhance THCP's binding affinity to CB1 receptors, suggesting a potentially higher potency.
The discovery of THCP has significant implications for both recreational and medical cannabis, offering new avenues for research and potential therapeutic applications.
While some additional research has been conducted on THCP, we’ll have to wait a couple years to understand the exact parameters of its applications.
Why is THCP So Strong? A Quick Lesson in Chemistry
THCP's chemical structure distinguishes it from other cannabinoids, particularly THC.
The primary difference lies in the length of the alkyl side chain. While THC has a five-carbon chain, THCP has a seven-carbon chain. This seemingly minor variation has profound effects on the compound's potency and interaction with cannabinoid receptors.
The elongated alkyl chain of THCP allows for a stronger binding affinity to CB1 receptors, which are primarily located in the brain and central nervous system.
This increased binding affinity is believed to be responsible for THCP's heightened psychoactive effects compared to THC. Studies suggest that THCP is approximately 30 times more potent than THC, making it the most potent cannabinoid identified to date.
If you’re not into chemistry all that much, think of a cannabinoid’s alkyl side chain like little hands that grasp onto your endocannabinoid receptors. 5 fingers can get a good grasp, but 7 fingers can hold on and not let go!
The Effects of THCP
As we said before, the psychoactive properties of THCP are significantly more pronounced than those of THC.
Users report intense euphoria, altered perception of time and space, and heightened sensory experiences. These effects are attributed to THCP's strong binding affinity to CB1 receptors, which play a crucial role in mediating the psychoactive effects of cannabinoids.
Essentially, THCP is thought to have more or less the same effects as THC, or delta 9, but at a much, much more intense rate.
In addition to its psychoactive properties, THCP may offer potential therapeutic benefits.
Preliminary research and anecdotal evidence suggest that THCP could be effective in managing discomfort, stress, appetite, and even a lack of sleep.
However, comprehensive clinical studies are needed to substantiate these claims and explore the full therapeutic potential of THCP.
While we don't have concrete scientific evidence for THCP’s plethora of potential effects, we do know what its users say. While experiences vary, THCP products are said to be much stronger and last much longer than THC.
Many of its users advise caution, especially for beginners or those who lack high tolerances. If you can handle your weed, however, and want a euphoric, relaxing high that’ll make you see stars, THCP is right for you.
The Benefits of Eating THCP Gummies
Edible forms of THCP, such as gummies, offer a convenient and discreet way to consume this potent cannabinoid. THCP gummies provide a controlled and consistent dosage, which can be particularly beneficial for users who are new to THCP or those who prefer not to inhale cannabis.
One of the key benefits of THCP gummies is the prolonged duration of effects. When ingested, THCP is metabolized by the liver, converting it into a more potent form that produces longer-lasting effects compared to inhalation methods.
This makes THCP gummies an ideal choice for managing chronic discomforts, stress, and lack of sleep, as the sustained release of THCP can provide continuous relief.
Moreover, THCP gummies eliminate the risks associated with smoking or vaping, such as respiratory irritation and exposure to harmful byproducts.
Gummies are also easy to dose accurately, reducing the risk of overconsumption and ensuring a more predictable and manageable experience.
THCP and the Entourage Effect
While THCP on its own is powerful enough for any users, all cannabinoids work best when combined.
The entourage effect is a theory that suggests cannabinoids and other compounds in the cannabis plant work synergistically to enhance each other's effects.
While much of the research on the entourage effect has focused on THC and CBD, there is growing interest in how THCP may contribute to this phenomenon.
THCP, due to its high potency, may amplify the effects of other cannabinoids when used in combination.
For instance, when combined with CBD, THCP might enhance the calming and properties of CBD, creating a more balanced and potent therapeutic effect.
Conversely, combining THCP with THC could potentially intensify the psychoactive experience, which may be desirable for some users seeking a stronger high or for specific medical conditions requiring higher potency.
Research into the entourage effect involving THCP is still in its early stages, but the initial findings suggest promising potential for more effective and tailored cannabis-based therapies.
Understanding how THCP interacts with other cannabinoids and terpenes could lead to the development of new products that maximize the therapeutic benefits of cannabis.
Are THCP Products Legal?
The short answer is, it depends on where you are.
In the United States, THCP products, including our mood-enhancing gummies, are considered federally legal under the Farm Bill of 2018. This piece of legislation legalized all hemp-derived products as long as they contain 0.3% THC or less on a dry-weight basis.
That said, federal law isn't the only thing to be weary of when it comes to cannabinoids. Individual states can make their own laws, making THCP (and other cannabinoids) illegal in their jurisdictions regardless of federal law.
While some states have adhered to the Farm Bill, also allowing hemp-derived products containing no more than 0.3% THC, other states have restricted or outright banned them. It’s really important to check up on your local legislation before attempting to purchase any cannabinoids.
How to Use THCP Safely
Given THCP's high potency, it is crucial to approach its use with caution. Start with a low dose and see how you feel. This stuff’s strong, and you can always take more if you’re feeling as buzzed as you crave, but once you take too much, there’s no going back. All that’ll be left to do is ride it out.
Apart from its high potency and caution with dosing, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind when it comes to taking THCP, one of the most important being where you’re getting it from.
Although there are many great, reputable sources for cannabinoids, some manufacturers like to cut corners in favor of a quick buck. This can result in ingesting dangerous byproducts, sicknesses, and even hospitalization.
That's why any THCP product you buy should meet a few standards of quality:
- Organic Hemp: The hemp plant is remarkably absorbent, meaning any pesticide, herbicide, or other harmful chemical could end up in your product if sprayed. Opt for organic, non-GMO hemp grown without these chemicals.
- Transparency: The seller you buy your THCP from should be able to tell you everything about the compound. From how it’s grown to what it does to anything else you can think of. You want to buy your THCP from people who know what they're doing.
- Certificates of Analysis: Any reputable manufacturer or seller will include a lab report, or Certificate of Analysis (CoA), with your product. This doesn't only guarantee that you’re getting the cannabinoids you paid for in the amounts you paid for, but also ensures that there are no harmful chemicals or chemical byproducts in your ingestible THCP.
- Legality: No reasonable, reputable manufacturer will ship THCP to a state where it is not legal. If a store, especially online, is willing to sell you illegal THCP, just think about how many other corners they might be cutting. Trust us, a good buzz isn't worth it.
Additionally, it is essential to store THCP products in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children and pets. Proper storage helps maintain the potency and shelf life of the products, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
THCP Myths: Debunked
As with any emerging compound, THCP has been the subject of various myths and misconceptions. One common question is whether THCP is safe to use.
Like other cannabinoids, THCP is generally considered safe when used responsibly and in moderation. However, due to its high potency, it is essential to exercise caution and adhere to recommended dosages.
Another myth is that THCP is a synthetic cannabinoid. In reality, THCP is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant.
Its discovery was made through the analysis of a specific cannabis variety, debunking the notion that it is artificially created.
Misconceptions also exist regarding the legality and availability of THCP.
As previously discussed, the legal status of THCP is a bit complex, and its availability may be limited in regions with strict cannabis regulations.
Staying informed and sourcing THCP from reputable suppliers can help ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
So, What is THCP?
THCP is a newly-discovered cannabinoid, yes, but it’s also a lot more than that. Its discovery has paved the way for more research into cannabis and how we can use it to have fun, treat some conditions, and more.
Its increased potency means that you need less of it to feel a bigger effect, making it as wallet-friendly as it is mind and body friendly. Although THCP can be used for a few different purposes, don't forget to always take it with precaution.
Remember, this stuff is super strong, so you should always go little by little until you reach a comfortable high. Don't take a whole lot. Don't be a hero. Instead, use it to get comfortable, happy, and a little giggly.
At Edobles, we use THCP in our science-backed mixes to add a little pizzaz to our gummy blends. Whether you want better sleep or a euphoric experience, find the THCP for the mood you crave today!
