THCP vs THC: Which is Stronger?

In case you haven’t heard, THC-P is a new cannabinoid which has been getting a lot of attention lately, & discovered less than two years ago. Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (or simply THCP) is a minor hemp-derived compound that has already shown its extraordinary effects that make it extremely desirable among any hemp enthusiast who likes compounds with psychoactive features. But in the battle of THCP vs THC – who wins? Which is stronger?

THCP is so new that we cannot give a ton of information about it just yet, as we await more studies, which will surely be performed in the next few years. Unlike other cannabinoids, we just do not have access to a wealth of research showing what the compound is capable of. Nevertheless, keep reading to know what we can be already aware of.

What We Know So Far About How THC-P Measures Up Against Delta-9 THC?

We know enough to provide a nice overview of THCP’s characteristics and properties. Due to its similarity to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9 THC), we are going to compare both cannabinoids in order to provide some clarity on what you can expect.

Psychoactive Activity THCP vs THC 

Perhaps the most talked-about thing about THCP is its psychoactive properties. D9 THC works on CB1 receptors through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), and this is what triggers the high that people experience. Well, in terms of THC-P vs delta 9, the first one is about 30x as effective at binding to these receptors making it a lot more potent. This could also mean that it’s an excellent option for those who struggle to feel the high they are looking for with delta-9, as some people may even have fewer CB1 receptors, which gets in the way of a well-rounded psychoactive experience. 

Note: At this time, we do not have enough information from people who have actually taken THCP yet, so we cannot speak for the specific nature of what the “high” feels like, but it is believed to feel a lot like that of delta-9.

Effects on the Nervous System

Our body is equipped with the ECS, which: 

• CB1 receptors are tasked with regulating nervous system functions that have a significant impact on how we feel each day. 
• CB2 receptors regulate the digestive and immune systems. 

Essentially, delta-9 works on CB1 and CB2 receptors, while THCP surely affects CB1, and it is likely that it also acts on CB2 receptors, although we have not yet identified this mechanism in research.

Properties

It is presently believed that THCP may have a role in affecting pain, nausea, appetite, and mood. Delta 9 is known for working on these processes of the body in a compelling way; the effects of THCP in these areas may be even stronger.

Where It Comes from?

Both delta-9 THC and THCP are, once again, cannabinoids that naturally exist in cannabis, and so anyone who has used cannabis has consumed them. In the hemp plant, delta-9 is found in no more than 0.3% of the entire plant’s chemical structure. THCP exists in even tracer amounts, which is partly why it has taken so long to discover this compound. Of course, THCP can be isolated and concentrated on producing formulas containing strong, active doses of the cannabinoid, just like we have done for CBN, delta-8, etc.

Research Behind It

Not to sound like a broken record, but THCP is such a discovery that research is really lacking at the moment. This is certain to change as researchers already believe that it is a real game-changer, not just for its psychoactive effects but for its potentially useful properties. Putting THC P vs delta 9 THC, which has been vastly studied for decades, allows us to know with certainty many of the properties that the first one is capable of.

Legality

Here is where things get tricky. Marijuana is a Schedule I Substance under the Controlled Substance Act Delta-9, making it federally illegal. THCP is federally legal as long as it comes from the hemp plant, according to the 2018 Farm Bill. But, some states may ban THCP in the future as they have done with delta-8 THC. So, for the time being, we can say that THCP is federally legal, but it is better to run a double-check on your state.

Availability

In terms of THC P vs delta 9, the latter is only available in states where marijuana can be purchased legally. THCP has not hit the market fully yet, but will very soon, and when it does, it will be legal for purchase unless the state applies specific regulations or restrictions.

THC-P: A Totally One-of-a-Kind Cannabinoid

THCP is another compound challenging our understanding of the hemp plant, and its properties are already proving to be nothing short of fascinating. Speaking of THC-P vs delta 9 THC, THCP tends to be something unique. And, before long, you will be able to compare for yourself, as THCP will be available very soon for purchase.