The world of cannabis is constantly evolving, and those who indulge are totally here for the new cannabinoids entering the marketplace, which offer major potency. Easily, one of the most dazzling of all is THC-P, which has become a staple of the hemp market, thanks to the fact that it just so happens to comply with federal law.
Now, THC-P is everywhere right now, but at the same time, it’s still a pretty new discovery. And of course, there’s a lot of misinformation floating around about how it works and what it’s capable of. Let’s take a closer look into THC-P, so that you know where it comes from, how it feels, whether or not it’s safe, and how to know you’re getting strictly the ‘good stuff’.
What in the World is THC-P?
THC-P seemingly came out of nowhere, and it was quickly touted as the next big thing in the cannabis world. In truth, THC-P (also known as tetrahydrocannabiphorol) was first discovered and isolated in 2019, so we want to make it clear that it’s a naturally occurring compound in cannabis flower, just like delta 9 THC, or CBD. THC-P is a very trace compound – a big reason why it took so long for scientists to even know that it exists and has existed in the plant all along.
So, what’s all of the fuss about? Well, THC-P happens to be the most potent compound in the entire plant. Again, it’s a cannabinoid, just like CBD, THC, Delta 8 THC, Delta 10 THC, THCV, HHC, and so on, which means that its job is to attach to cannabinoid receptors (CB receptors) in the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to produce specific effects. And, THC-P is the MVP of cannabis, as it attaches to cannabinoid receptors about 30 times more effectively than delta 9 THC. Naturally, this means that its potency is up there.
To better understand, think of cannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors like puzzle pieces. Each cannabinoid in cannabis has its own chemical properties that affect how well it can attach to these receptors. THC-P’s ability to attach to them is prolific, and the better this attachment (binding) process is, the more the cannabinoid can actually affect you.
Now, you might be wondering: if THC-P exists in such a trace amount, how is it that THC-P products remain relatively affordable? The answer has to do with the fact that all cannabinoids are isomers of each other – in other words, they share the same molecules, just arranged differently. Rearranging the molecules of CBD, a cannabinoid that’s so abundant that extracting it from hemp requires very little raw plant material, turns it into tetrahydrocannabiphorol, which can then be used to formulate all kinds of products like vapes, gummies, etc. – more on that later.
How Does it Feel to Take THC-P?
One thing we want to reiterate is that THC-P is extremely potent. It’s said that the high of tetrahydrocannabiphorol is 10x as strong as that of Delta 9 THC, so if you’re taking a pure THC-P product, you want to go light-handed unless your tolerance is astronomical (which some peoples’ are, of course).
THC-P is basically Delta 9 THC on steroids – that’s how it’s commonly described. Meaning, it feels just like Delta 9, only stronger. That said, a lot of people enjoy the euphoric effects they get from it, and the fact that it can wipe away worry and irritability, bringing them into a more tranquil and blissful state of mind. Of course, there are some solid body effects to look forward to, which is great if you’re dealing with physical tension of some kind.
Is THC-P Safe to Take?
With THC-P being so ridiculously potent, it’s expected that some people are gonna worry about side effects. One thing to remember is that no component of cannabis has been found to be toxic to humans, so you don’t need to worry about life-threatening effects or anything like that.
Still, the more intoxicating the cannabinoid, the more likely you are to experience certain side effects. Thankfully, the side effects described are generally mild and short-lived, and are no different from the side effects we’re already familiar with when using cannabis. They include:
- Dizziness
- Paranoia/anxiety
- Increased heartbeat
- Low blood pressure
- Cottonmouth
- Bloodshot eyes
- Impairment
- Forgetfulness
We do want to point out that driving while under the influence of anything intoxicating is strictly illegal. And, given the effects of tetrahydrocannabiphorol, it can be dangerous for you and others, since the ‘high’ can lead to mental and physical impairment. Basically, just be responsible.
Is THC-P Even Legal?
THC-P is, maybe surprisingly, totally legal according to federal law, and that’s because it complies with the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill, which permits the legalization of hemp derivatives, as long as no product contains beyond 0.3% delta 9 THC. THC-P and Delta 9 THC are two different compounds, so THC-P products, and even ones that contain really high concentrations of THC-P, are permitted, federally.
But – and it’s a big “but”, THC-P is not legal in all 50 states. Basically, a number of states have totally outlawed intoxicating cannabinoids in hemp, including tetrahydrocannabiphorol.
Can THC-P Cause a Failed Drug Test Result?
Yes, THC-P can potentially cause a failed drug test, due to it once again being similar to THC. Drug tests typically screen for THC and its metabolites, and so, depending on the sensitivity of the test and the amount of THC-P present, it can lead to a positive result. Since THC-P is a relatively new discovery, its specific detection in drug tests may vary, but it’s advisable to exercise caution if you’re subject to drug testing and have consumed products that may contain tetrahydrocannabiphorol.
What Kinds of THC-P Products are Worth Trying?
You will find all kinds of THC-P products out there, and each one can affect you differently. Let’s go over the most popular kinds of THC-P products that are worth trying:
- THC-P Vapes:Most popular way to take THC-P, and you can opt for bottled e-liquids, pre-filled vape cartridges, or AIO (All-In-One) disposable vape pens – whichever you prefer. THC-P vapes combine the distillate of THC-P with terpene extracts (usually live resin or “dry resin”), and also come in a huge selection of strains. The effects of vaping can be felt within minutes but only last for an hour or two at max.
- THC-P Flower: These are hemp flower buds infused with THC-P distillate, and they come in pre-roll or loose buds form. Like vapes, THC-P flower comes in tons, and we mean tons of strains. When smoked (using a pipe or bong) or vaped (desktop or portable herbal vaporizer), the effects can also be felt within minutes, but only lasting for an hour or two at most.
- THC-P Tinctures: These are taken sublingually – that means below the tongue. Tinctures come in various milligram strengths, as well as flavored and non-flavored (natural) options. The effects take about 30 minutes to “kick in” and last for several hours.
- THC-P Edibles: Take effect within 30-45 minutes and supply long-lasting effects – think 8 hours or so. They are formulated to appeal to the taste buds. Edibles are a popular way to consume THC-P due to being discreet, easy to dose, and masking the natural taste of cannabinoids. Delta 8 edibles are divided into two main types:
- Confectionaries: Gummies, candies, chocolates, and mints.
- Baked Goods: Cookies, brownies, cakes, and muffins.
- THC-P Drinks: Drinkable, mainly beverages (sodas, seltzers, etc.), are absorbed fast, since they’re water-soluble, and even offer a refreshing way to get in that THC-P fix. Drinks take effect within 30-45 minutes and supply long-lasting effects at up to or around 8 hours on average.
- THC-P Concentrates: Wax, shatter, badder, etc. are extremely potent since they’re highly concentrated. They have to be dabbed (vaped in a dabbing device) to reach high temperatures that allow them to melt quickly, thus producing vapor. Effects in turns of how fast they “kick in” and duration pretty much are on par with vapes.
Another thing we need to point out is that you can encounter lots of cannabinoid blended products (combine THC-P with other cannabinoids in hemp). These products are definitely worth exploring, but keep in mind that they tend to be really high-potency, so pay attention to the milligram strengths.
How Do I Know My THC-P Product is Legit?
THC-P is the ultimate cannabinoid for high-potency partakers, and indulging in it is never a bad time as long as you can handle its powerful effects. It’s also easier to find than ever, but that doesn’t mean all of the THC-P out there is high level.
THC-P products should always come with third-party lab reports, which come from an unbiased laboratory and show you the purity, potency, safety, and authenticity of the THC-P product in question. Besides peeping these reports, we encourage you to read through the list of ingredients and check out reviews to be sure you’re getting only the best of the best out there.
For the good stuff, head on over to Goo’d Extracts, where you’ll find high-quality THC-P formulas in only top-shelf strains, to see why this cannabinoid has got everyone talking.
