THCP: Everything you need to know!

For millennia, the use and appreciation of cannabis has been widespread in cultures around the world. However, it's only recently, in the last century, that we've begun to demystify this fascinating plant, unveiling its many components. One of these recent discoveries is Tetrahydrocannabiphorol, more commonly known as THCP. Recently identified, it has aroused both excitement and curiosity in the scientific community!

Unlike THC and CBD, which largely dominate discussions around cannabis, THCP is something of a low-key newcomer, generating a growing buzz among connoisseurs and researchers thanks to or because of its intense THCP-like effects, but whose legal status has yet to be established.

Although it hasn't yet achieved the notoriety of its THC & CBD cousins, THCP is increasingly standing out, to the point of becoming the most fashionable cannabinoid of recent months and positioning itself as a player in the legal cannabis industry!

However, we'd like to stress the need for caution. Although THCP attracts a huge number of consumers, its use must be well supervised. Our mission is to ensure that every customer is fully informed before experimenting with this new, hair-raising cannabinoid!

What is THCP?

Basically, THCP is one of the many cannabinoids present in cannabis. Its full name, tetrahydrocannabiphorol, might be intimidating, but it reveals its kinship with THC.

Like all cannabinoids, THCP interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, a complex network that regulates functions from pain to mood. But what really sets THCP apart is its unique molecular structure and carbon atoms, which may have major implications for its activity in the human body.

Preliminary studies suggest that THCP may have an even greater affinity for the CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system than THC. This means that at low doses, THCP could potentially produce more pronounced effects than THC, although not necessarily of a psychoactive nature.

At higher doses, however, THCP may produce intense psychoactive effects, due to its high affinity for CB1 receptors. These effects could be comparable to, or even superior to, those of THC. However, it's important to note that THCP research is still in its infancy, and a full understanding of its properties and effects requires further study.

How is THCP created?

Just like HHC or THC, to name but a few, the creation of THCP in cannabis is due to a natural, complex and fascinating process whose starting point is the precursor similar to all cannabinoids present in hemp: cannabigerolic acid or CBGa.

We know that CBGa is converted to THCP via specific enzymes, however, the exact pathway cannabis takes to produce THCP and the reason for the presence of this specific cannabinoid over others is still largely unknown and under investigation.

It's worth noting that, given the growing interest in THCP and its low presence in hemp, all the THCP to be found on the legal cannabis market comes from laboratory production, obtained via synthetic methods in order to meet demand. If a shop claims that its flowers are naturally rich in THCP, then we advise you to flee!

What are the differences between THC and THCP?

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the best-studied and best-known cannabinoid in cannabis, mainly because of its psychoactive effects, which provide the "high" associated with cannabis consumption. THCP (tetrahydrocannabiphorol) is a relatively recently discovered cannabinoid and is less well understood than THC. Nevertheless, some key differences between these two molecules have already been identified:

1. Chemical structure :
   • The main structural difference between THC and THCP is the length of their alkyl side chains. THC has a pentyl side chain (5 carbon atoms), while THCP has a heptyl side chain (7 carbon atoms).
2. Affinity for CB1 receptors :
   • Preliminary studies suggest that THCP has a considerably higher affinity for the CB1 receptor than THC. This could potentially mean that THCP is much more active at lower doses than THC.
3. Psychoactive effects :
   • Due to its increased affinity for the CB1 receptor, THCP may have more potent psychoactive effects than THC, although more research is needed. The discovery of THCP has raised questions about its potential role in the overall effects of cannabis, particularly in strains that may contain significant concentrations of this molecule.
4. Presence in Cannabis :
   • So far, THC has been identified as the main cannabinoid in most cannabis varieties, while THCP is present in much smaller quantities.
5. Research and Understanding :
   • THC has been widely studied for decades, and its health effects, potential medical benefits and side effects are well documented. By comparison, research into THCP is still in its infancy, and many aspects of this molecule remain to be discovered.

Although THC and THCP are both cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant, their chemical structures, affinity for endocannabinoid receptors, and potential effects on the body differ significantly. As with all cannabinoids, research continues to evolve, and it's likely that our understanding of THCP will develop considerably in the years to come.

What are the properties of THCP?

Here are some of THCP's potential therapeutic properties, based on its chemistry, its relationship with other cannabinoids and preliminary studies:

1. Analgesic :
   • Due to its affinity for CB1 receptors, THCP may have analgesic potential, helping to manage pain. This property could make it useful for conditions such as chronic pain, arthritis or migraines.
2. Anti-inflammatory :
   • Like other cannabinoids, THCP may possess anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory diseases such as colitis, Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
3. Neuroprotective :
   • THCP may have neuroprotective effects, which could be beneficial for conditions such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, or other neurodegenerative disorders.
4. Anxiolytic and antidepressant :
   • Like THC, THCP may have anxiolytic and antidepressant properties, although the nature and extent of these effects need further study.
5. Appetite :
   • Other cannabinoids have been shown to influence appetite. THCP could have an effect on appetite, either by increasing or decreasing it.
6. Anti-tumor potential :
   • Some cannabinoids have shown anti-tumor potential in preliminary studies. It is possible that THCP may also have this property, but this requires further investigation.

Crucially, most of these therapeutic properties are based on suppositions and relationships with other cannabinoids, rather than on solid clinical evidence for THCP itself. More research, studies and clinical trials are needed to confirm these properties and to fully understand THCP's therapeutic potential.

What are the side effects of THCP?

1. Dry mouth :
   • As is common with other cannabinoids, THCP may cause a sensation of dry mouth in some users.
2. Increased appetite :
   • If THCP behaves similarly to THC, it could stimulate appetite, leading to increased hunger.
3. Short-term memory impairment :
   • Many cannabinoids, especially THC, can have an impact on short-term memory, and it's possible that THCP has a similar effect.
4. Dizziness :
   • Some users may experience dizziness or lightheadedness after taking THCP.
5. Anxiety and paranoia :
   • Although it depends on dose and individual sensitivity, high levels of some cannabinoids can cause anxiety or paranoia in some people. THCP could potentially have a similar effect.
6. Effects on blood pressure :
   • Like some other cannabinoids, THCP may influence blood pressure, although the exact nature of this effect requires further research.
7. Impaired Coordination :
   • Consumption of cannabinoids may affect coordination and the ability to drive or operate machinery.

Conclusion

THCP is an exciting addition to the cannabinoid family. Its potential, while promising, is shrouded in a cloak of mystery. What we do know is that it has the potential to redefine our understanding of cannabis, offering new therapeutic horizons. But with this promise also comes the need for in-depth education. Users, whether medical or recreational, need to stay abreast of research and regulations. In the meantime, THCP reminds us that cannabis, despite years of research, still has secrets to reveal.