THCP is a natural phytocannabinoid found in cannabis, only discovered in late 2019 by a team of Italian researchers, THCP is one of 120 (or more) cannabinoids identified in the cannabis plant to date, with many more likely to be discovered.
However, THCP is causing a particular stir in the cannabis world. Researchers have found evidence that THCP may have a more pronounced medicinal effect of cannabis strains than THC itself. .
What Is THC-P?
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabiphoral, or THCP, is a cannabinoid closely related to THC that is found in very low concentrations in the cannabis plant.
According to the researchers who discovered it, THCP interacts with the endocannabinoid system similarly to THC, but with a much greater affinity for cannabinoid receptors. Studies have found that THCP binds to CB1 receptors 33 times more often than conventional THC, meaning THCP may be up to 33 times more potent than THC.
What makes THCP unique is its longer alkyl side chain: a much longer string of carbon atoms than traditional THC (seven carbons versus five carbons). This allows the cannabinoids to attach more firmly to receptors throughout the body. Therefore, much less THCP is required to affect the different functions controlled by the endocannabinoid system (ECS) than THC to have the same effect.
What THCP Effects And Potency?
Since THCP binds so well to cannabinoid receptors, it may have an effect similar to delta 9 THC, but perhaps more pronounced. The scientists who discovered THCP performed standard cannabis mouse experiments to measure the new cannabinoid’s physical effects. Mice showed reduced activity levels at lower doses and became cataractic coma — a trance-like state — at higher doses. THCP also appears to be an effective pain reliever in higher doses.
THCP’s ability to bind so efficiently to cannabinoid receptors in the body makes it highly valuable—not only as a recreational stimulant, but also for pain relief, nausea relief, and helping users fall asleep. Although THCP has not been thoroughly studied, it seems likely that this cannabinoid’s unrivaled binding affinity for human receptors will make it particularly valuable for the treatment of these and other disorders.
In fact, trace amounts of (and previously unnoticed) THCP in existing cannabis strains may have been responsible for some of cannabis’ known healing abilities. The scientists who discovered THCP in 2019 wrote, “The discovery of an extremely potent THC-like phytocannabinoid may reveal several pharmacological effects in cannabis that cannot be fully attributed to [delta 9 THC].”
Of course, THCP’s strong binding affinity also amplifies typical unwelcome THC side effects such as dry mouth and eyes, anxiety, and paranoia. It might even introduce new risks to users. But until we see the results in human subjects, we’re mostly guessing.
THC-P Benefits And Side Effect
In the absence of any available studies, patients should exercise caution when considering THCP as a potential drug until more information is available.
It’s also worth remembering that THCP is usually only present in cannabis in low concentrations. So it’s hard to say what effect marijuana has on the overall effects of marijuana. Theoretically, THCP could be one of the reasons why some strains of cannabis are so powerful despite similar or lower concentrations of THC. However, there is no clear evidence for this concept.
Is THCP Legal?
In Europe
THCP is not an isomer or stereoisomer of THC – Tetrahydrocannabinol, it is not scheduled as controlled substance on EU Green List.
If the THCP raw material is a derivative of natural cannabis and is not completely synthesized in the laboratory, it is likely to be outside the scope of the European “New Drug Law” but it is not clear, such as the NPSG law in Germany.
In USA
The Farm Bill of 2018 made hemp and hemp-derived products legal under federal law in the United States. If they are screened and shown to have a THC content of 0.3% or less, hemp products may be marketed legally across the nation under this law. THCP is permitted by federal law, but things are more complicated.
Regardless of the federal government’s stance, a few states have outlawed or severely regulated intoxicating hemp derivatives.
Will THCP Show Up on a Drug Test?
As said earlier, THCP hasn’t been the subject of much research, so it isn’t easy to clarify whether the substance will result in a failed drug test. Nevertheless, generally speaking, you can presume that a cannabinoid will cause you to fail a drug test if its name contains the letters “THC.”
By identifying the THC-COOH enzyme, that digests all THC-based cannabinoids, standard drug tests determine if a person has used illicit drugs. THCP is more powerful than delta 9. Hence it seems reasonable that it will screen positive for drugs more frequently than THC. You should avoid THCP for several weeks if a you expect a drug screen test.
Is THCP Safe?
The lack of evidence suggests that THCP users must take prudence. Its safety profile is probably comparable to that of the more well-known cannabinoid THC, because its molecular makeup is comparable to delta 9.
Although there aren’t any known long-term negative consequences of THCP, consuming too much can have unpleasant side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, or drowsiness.
It’s crucial to start THCP slowly so that your body has time to acclimatize and respond. Even if you only use THC, taking too much THCP may not be a great thing because of its great potency. If you dose too low, you can always consume more; however, once you hit your threshold, there is no turning back.
Is There Any THCP Product To Try?
If you’re interested in giving it a try, start with a low dose. The 420 E-Liquid presented to you by KANNASTAR contains 90MG THCP, which is suitable for traditional electronic cigarettes. Since the amount of vapor and frequency of use of this device is higher than general cannabis vaporizer, that’s why you should not underestimate it.
Final Thoughts
THCP, albeit still young, can dominate the industry in the coming years. THCP is a fantastic choice for individuals seeking a “kick” that is distinct from any other because it has similar medical benefits to delta 9—including deep sleep, anti-inflammatory properties, and pain control, an immense strength.
