Is THC-P Synthetic? Understanding the Origins and Nature of THC-P

THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol) straddles the line between synthetic and natural, causing controversies regarding its status. Cannabis has been used for its therapeutic as well as recreational properties for years. Modern research leads us to uncover a new cannabinoid – THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol), which boasts a 30:1 potency ratio regarding the typical THC compound. In other words, THC-P users for recreational and medicinal purposes will be broadening out a great deal.

While many are curious about its properties, effects, and production methods, a key question often arises “Is THCP synthetic?” Let’s explore the THCP production process and why THC-P emerged in the cannabis landscape so quickly. Read on to learn more about THC-P, whether it is synthetic or natural, its potential uses, legal standing, and comparison to the other most consumed types of THC.

Natural vs. Synthetic Cannabinoids

First, it is important to clarify the distinction between natural and synthetic THCP, as this will help us answer some of the questions surrounding its presence in the market.

• Natural Cannabinoids: Natural or Phytocannabinoids are naturally found in Cannabis and Hemp plants. Cannabis contains many natural cannabinoids, varying in their content. Some are available in low quantities while others are abundant. All the compounds that can be extracted directly from cannabis plants with methods like ethanol or CO2 extraction, such as THC, CBD, and CBG, are called natural cannabinoids 
• Synthetic Cannabinoids: Synthetic cannabinoids, on the other hand, are artificial or man-made compounds created in laboratories such as Spice or K2. They mimic the effects of natural cannabinoids and have strong binding affinity, so they need to be taken with caution due to the level of risk involved.
• Semi-Synthetic Cannabinoids. These cannabinoids are a middle ground as they are created by chemically modifying the structure of natural cannabinoids. THCP is an example, as it can be produced in a lab by enhancing or modifying naturally occurring cannabinoids. This allows for increased potency and availability while retaining similarities to natural compounds.

Is THCP Synthetic?

The simpler answer is that THCP is not completely synthetic. While it is produced semi-synthetically in a lab environment, this is only done because THCP exists in trace amounts in cannabis plants. Pure THCP is extremely hard to find. In simpler terms, multiple THCP products are created by obtaining it through the semi-synthetic procedure, where THCP is produced from other Cannabinoids, such as CBD. Since CBD and THCP contain plant-based materials, the roots of the products are deeply woven into cannabis compounds.

THC-P’s Chemical Structures

While comparing THC and THC-P, the most distinct difference is observed in their chemical structures. Though both cannabinoids resemble one another, THC-P has an alkyl side chain that is made up of seven carbons, as opposed to the shorter five-carbon side chain of THC.

The longer side chains in THC-P allow it to bind itself to the CB1 receptors more effectively, amplifying the psychoactive effects otherwise experienced when using marijuana.

How THCP is Produced?

Two methods are used for the production of THCP are listed below:

• Natural Extraction: THCP, in its natural form, is found in cannabis in very small quantities. The extraction of THCP directly is inefficient and complicated.  You can find many products in the market, containing natural THCP, however, they are more expensive due to the scarcity of natural THCP in cannabis. 
• Semi-Synthetic Production: The common form of THCP available in the market is made by changing hemp-derived cannabinoids like CBD to THCP. This method uses an amalgamation of natural origins and advanced lab techniques to create THCP. 

Uses and Benefits of THCP

There are many benefits and uses of THCP in recreational as well as medicinal ways. 

Recreational Use:

Cannabinoids like THCP are well known due to their recreational use and benefits. THC-P is super popular among recreational users because of the enhanced effect it provides. Whether you want to relax or engulf yourself in another world, THC-P helps achieve it all. Even users have stated that this cannabinoid makes them extremely euphoric and relaxed. Hence it can be used after long and exhausting days.

Medicinal Use:

THCP has many beneficial medicinal uses such as:

• Pain Relief: Patients dealing with inconvenient pain may benefit from THC-P as it works with more potency than THC.
• Anxiety and Depression: There are some accounts that users have felt a sense of calmness and bliss. That said, more research is required to understand how this cannabinoid truly works.

Other Uses:

THCP has other uses as well in a more positive way. THC-P’s soothing properties can help relax the head, body, and mind which makes it useful for those struggling with insomnia. For those who use THC and face issues while sleeping, it allows them to rest without the need to take higher doses.

Benefits Comparison:

 Both natural and synthetic THCP have their benefits and risks. 

• Natural THCP: Seeking a solution with minimal processing? Then the Natural THCP is the perfect fit since it resonates with people who seek natural solutions and offers holistic benefits.
• Synthetic Cannabinoids: Although the synthetic option is more powerful, and is suitable for those who need strong effects, they tend to carry more risks because they are artificial and their effects are inconsistent and incomplete.

Controversies and Misconceptions

The advantages and disadvantages of synthetic and natural cannabinoids tend to be hotly debated, particularly from the legal and safety perspective.

Legal Status: 

• Natural THCP is federally legal in the US as it is derived from hemp, as long as it complies with the THC content restrictions of the 2018 Farm Bill.
• Synthetic cannabinoids on the other hand have a positional issue because they often fall within the area of concern or are banned due to safety worries..

Misconceptions:

It is a common misconception that synthetic cannabinoids, including THCP,, are harmful. This, however, is incorrect as long as the manufacturer is compliant with certain quality parameters, for example, CannaAid possesses a guarantee. 

Articles that were published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology claim that the wellness of synthetic cannabinoids is dependent mainly on manufacturing standards. THCP is thought to be extremely powerful and not safe to be taken or used by some. It is true that it is stronger than THC but our products THCP Cartridges come in safe dosages for consumers who want an enhanced experience.

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

Hands down, the most important aspect to consider when selecting cannabinoids is safety.

• Natural THCP: While it is derived from plants which makes it somewhat safer, its strength can be inconsistent. And as long as they follow local THC policies, natural cannabinoids are looked upon more positively by the regulators. Comes from reputable sources such as CannaAid which prioritizes quality and possesses a safe reputation.
• Synthetic: There are serious advantages with synthetic production such as higher dosage and mass production. However, these benefits come at the cost of safety issues if not produced properly. There are some risks of misuse and contamination, which is why the supervision has to be tighter and needs care while taking the dose.

Safety should never be compromised. Using referenced and lab-tested companies is an option to enjoy the perks with no concern whatsoever.

Conclusion:

THCP isn’t entirely synthetic, it is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that is modified through semi-synthetic means, so THCP is the fusion of nature and science. For those interested in exploring THCP, the users-safe and effective products from CannaAid are a great option. Always prioritize openness and quality in efforts to have a better experience.