Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP) is a cannabinoid isolated in 2019 that has gained attention within scientific and cannabis communities due to its unique properties. This article explores whether THCP produces a psychoactive “high” and the nature of that experience.
Understanding THCP
THCP is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, although typically in very small concentrations. It was discovered by a team of Italian researchers who isolated it from a medicinal cannabis variety. While chemically similar to Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, THCP possesses a distinct structural difference.
The distinguishing feature of THCP is its longer alkyl side chain, which consists of seven carbon atoms, compared to the five-carbon chain found in Delta-9 THC. Because THCP occurs in trace amounts in the plant, most commercial THCP products available today are synthesized from more abundant hemp-derived cannabinoids, such as CBD.
How THCP Produces Effects
THCP produces its effects by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a system regulating physiological processes. Specifically, THCP binds to cannabinoid receptors, particularly the CB1 receptors, which are found predominantly in the brain and central nervous system. These CB1 receptors are responsible for mediating the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis.
The unique seven-carbon side chain of THCP allows it to bind to CB1 receptors with a significantly higher affinity than Delta-9 THC. Research indicates that THCP’s binding affinity to CB1 receptors can be approximately 30 to 33 times greater than that of Delta-9 THC.
The Nature of the THCP High
THCP is widely reported to produce a high that is considerably more intense than that of traditional Delta-9 THC. Users often describe the psychoactive effects as powerful, with a notable increase in euphoria and deep bodily relaxation. The experience can also include altered perception and heightened sensory awareness. While the binding affinity is significantly higher, the actual subjective experience is often characterized as being 3 to 5 times stronger than Delta-9 THC, rather than a direct 33-fold increase in effect.
The onset and duration of THCP’s effects can vary depending on the consumption method. When inhaled, such as through vaping, effects may begin within 1 to 15 minutes, with peak effects occurring around 30 to 60 minutes after consumption. For edibles, the onset is slower, taking between 30 minutes to 2 hours to manifest. The duration of the high can also be prolonged, potentially lasting 4 to 6 hours for edibles and around 2 hours for inhaled forms.
Navigating the THCP Experience
Due to its recent discovery, scientific research on THCP is still in its preliminary stages. There is limited information available regarding its long-term effects on the human body. Individual responses to cannabinoids can vary considerably, influenced by factors such as body chemistry, tolerance, and previous experience with cannabis.
Given THCP’s substantial potency, caution with dosing is advised. It is recommended to “start low and go slow” to assess individual tolerance and avoid overwhelming effects. Beginners might consider starting with very small amounts, typically in the range of 0.3 to 1 milligram. The legal status of THCP can also vary by region; while it may be federally legal in some areas when derived from hemp with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC, some states have implemented their own restrictions or bans.