THCP Benefits: What Do We Know?

There’s a certain buzz around THCP (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabiphorol), a phytocannabinoid that is potentially 33 times stronger than delta-9-THC, its commonly known cannabinoid cousin. 

Delta-9 is known for being the heavy hitter of the 150+ known cannabinoids in the phytocannabinoid family. It’s the primary driver behind the euphoric high that often accompanies cannabis consumption. However, THCP may be the new BMOC (big man on campus).

THCP’s recent discovery just goes to show that cannabis scientists and enthusiasts have only just discovered the tip of the cannabinoid iceberg when it comes to cannabis phytochemistry and knowledge. Keep reading to find out more about the potential benefits of THCP and the information we’ve yet to find out about this potent phytocannabinoid.

What is THCP? 

Researchers discovered THCP in 2019. Using advanced technologies such as mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography, the researchers came across THCP by accident. There’s nothing like the discovery of an ultra-potent surprise cannabinoid to keep cannabis scientists and researchers on their toes.

Just like CBG and certain other cannabinoids, THCP only appears in the cannabis plant in very low concentrations, which is one reason research has been so scarce. The Italian researchers who discovered THCP believe this newly discovered compound could be the reason why some low-THC cannabis strains still have a strong psychoactive effect. 

THCP binds to the endocannabinoid system’s major receptor group at a rate that exceeds THC’s capacity 33-fold. In the cannabis science world, that’s kind of a big deal. 

Here’s the catch, though: natural levels of THCP in most cannabis plants come in at 0.1% or lower, suggesting that THCP may be somewhat challenging to extract. In comparison, the legendary delta-9 THC can be found in concentrations of up to 35%. The non-psychotropic, highly therapeutic CBD can appear in female cannabis plants at a rate of up to 15%.

So, THCP plays a little hard to get. But good things come in small packages, and THCP has the potential to be a critical ally in the world of human health and wellbeing. 

Is THCP Legal?

THCP products currently on the market are derived from male hemp plants.​​ They are classified under “hemp-derived THC” products, which the U.S. government legalized with the 2018 Farm Bill. All cannabis containing less than 0.3% delta-9-THC is legally classified as hemp, making THCP and many other cannabinoids legal under federal law. 

Regulations on THCP sales may vary from state to state. Most states require consumers to be at least 21 to purchase THCP products. 

The Importance of Size: The Science Behind THCP

Let’s briefly get into some technical talk. 

THCP is the first naturally occurring cannabinoid to contain more than five carbon atoms in its alkyl side chains. This high number of carbon atoms is important because the size and shape of molecules can shape the physiological effects of cannabis. Higher numbers of carbon atoms on an alkyl side chain can result in higher levels of psychoactive properties.

All of this matters because it’s through the alkyl side chains that cannabinoids bind with endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. Cannabinoids impact activity in the brain and cells by this binding because of the wide-reaching tentacles of the endocannabinoid system. The tighter the compounds bind to these receptors—especially CB1 receptors—the more profound the resulting sensations can be.

What Are the Benefits of THCP?

Some of the potential THCP benefits scientists have uncovered based on limited testing include:

• Pain relief 
• Decreased nausea
• Stress relief
• Increased appetite
• Lowered anxiety levels

Many of the ailments treated by delta-9 may also see improvements from THCP due to the similarities between the two cannabinoids. Furthermore, the added strength of THCP could level up the benefits offered by THC. As research on the cannabinoid continues, time will tell just how valuable an ally THCP can be for cannabis users. 

Potential Side Effects of THCP

Once again, due to the similarities between delta-9 and THCP, we can also hypothesize that they cause similar side effects. Common side effects of these cannabinoids include:

• Paranoia
• Dry mouth
• Anxiety
• Drowsiness
• Red eyes
• Nausea
• Temporary short-term memory loss
• Rapid heart rate

Try Some of The Green Dragon’s Tasty THCP Products

We can’t emphasize enough how mindful one must be when choosing to consume THCP. THCP is so much stronger than delta-9, and the same dose of either one may have very different effects. 

Proceed with care when giving THCP a try—start small and work your way up to larger doses once you’ve gone through the experience a few times. Less is often more with psychotropic substances, and it’s best to explore little by little. 

Don’t like the first product you try? We’ve got plenty more, and we’re always happy to help you find one that works for you. Reach out to our knowledgeable anytime for a complimentary consultation!