THCP, scientifically known as trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabiphorol, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that was recently identified by cannabis researchers and scientists. Although new cannabis cannabinoids and compounds are being discovered almost daily, THCP stands out due to its potential potency—ranging from 3 to 33 times stronger than THC!
So, what makes THCP so remarkable, and how can you access it? Let’s explore the essentials of THCP and its possible effects.
Understanding THCP: Does It Get You High?
In the expansive world of plant molecules, THCP has emerged as a significant new player. Researchers found that amidst the diverse array of molecules produced by medicinal cannabis, THCP has the potential to surpass the popularity of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The more scientists study cannabis, the more they uncover about its potential, paving the way for new cannabis-based treatments.
THCP, short for Δ9-tetrahydrocannabiphorol, was isolated from a cannabis plant. Structurally, THCP is quite similar to THC, with a notable difference: THCP has two additional carbon atoms in its alkyl side chain. Before this discovery, no cannabinoids with more than five links in their side chains had ever been identified in nature.
If you’re wondering whether THCP can make you high, the answer is yes! But that’s not all. THCP also appears to be more effective than THC as a pharmacological agent. The unique “tail” in its chemical structure—representing an extended alkyl side chain—plays a crucial role in how the cannabinoid binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body. The longer the side chain, the stronger the affinity for these receptors, leading to more pronounced psychoactive effects. The discovery of an alkyl chain with seven carbon atoms prompted further investigation into this unique molecule.
The Discovery of THCP
The discovery of THCP is credited to a team of Italian researchers involved in the UNIHEMP project, which focuses on the use of industrial hemp biomass for energy and new biochemical production. This group, authorized by the Italian Ministry of Health and led by researcher Giuseppe Cannazza, identified THCP in a medicinal cannabis strain provided by the Military Chemical-Pharmaceutical Institute in Florence.
These scientists were able to isolate two minor cannabinoids, THCP and CBDP (cannabidiphorol), from a mixture containing other cannabinoids. Their study aimed to isolate and quantify these molecules in the cannabis strain using advanced analytical techniques. THCP and CBDP were synthetically produced in the lab to match their properties using mass spectrometry.
Subsequent research focused on understanding THCP’s binding affinity to cannabinoid receptors and its pharmacological effects, tested on mice. Investigating these lesser-known compounds in cannabis extracts is crucial to comprehending how cannabinoid and terpene profiles deliver their effects. Some speculate that these minor cannabinoids may contribute to the “entourage effect,” which could explain why treatments with the same THC concentration yield varying results.
From Research to Market
The goal of the researchers is to establish the chemical profile of naturally occurring cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, allowing the cannabis industry to explore the potential of each novel compound.
Within just two years of its discovery, products containing THCP have already appeared on the market. Some of these products are oil-based and contain minimal amounts of other minor cannabinoids, while others are available in vape form, containing a blend of cannabinoid molecules, including THCP.
Is THCP legal? This depends on your location and the laws applicable to this controlled substance. Although THCP is a natural product, it is considered an analog of THC, and different laws may apply in different countries.
Potential Benefits of THCP
The full range of THCP’s effects on the human body and its potential benefits is still being studied. However, scientists suggest that THCP may exhibit similar biological activities to other naturally occurring cannabinoids, like THC, but with greater potency.
The differences between THC and THCP seem to be in their potency and the duration of their effects. Some key benefits of THCP that make it a promising phytocannabinoid include:
Potency
THCP is more potent than THC, meaning smaller doses are needed to achieve the same psychoactive effects. Studies by the Italian research group showed that THCP has approximately 30 times higher binding activity for the CB1 receptor compared to THC.
Pain Relief
In tests conducted on mice, THCP decreased locomotor activity and body temperature more effectively than THC. Mice treated with THCP also showed a greater resistance to pain caused by heat, suggesting that THCP may have potential as an analgesic.
Anti-Epileptic Potential
While THC and CBD have been studied extensively for their effects on epileptic seizures, THCP’s pharmacological effects on humans are yet to be fully understood. Given its high affinity for CB1 receptors and overall high cannabimimetic activity, THCP could hold promise as a new compound for treating epilepsy and other neurological disorders.
THCP: A New Frontier in Cannabis
With its significantly increased potency and diverse range of potential health benefits, THCP could revolutionize the cannabis industry and alter the way cannabis enthusiasts consume cannabis products. However, research on this new cannabinoid is still in its early stages, so while the findings are promising, it’s too soon to definitively state its benefits. Nonetheless, THCP offers an exciting opportunity to further explore the holistic benefits of cannabis.
