WHAT IS THCP?

 

THCP first begins as a substance initially formed as cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), known as the "mother cannabinoid" from which cannabinoids derive from. As carboxyl groups (molecules comprising one carbon, two oxygen, and one hydrogen atom) from the molecule. This happens when the plant part is heated.

Otherwise, it has no biological effect. Depending on the various enzymes with which it interacts, CBGA can become tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA) or cannabidiol acid (CBDA), among others. Again, these have little effect when consumed. It's only when the carboxyl group falls off that they do.

By the same token, TCHPA (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol Acid) and CBDPA (Cannabidiphorol Acid) become THCP and CBDP when heated. They compose only a small percentage of a plant's overall cannabinoid makeup — and they're quite potent. In fact, THCP is 33 times stronger than regular THC, which means its effects on the body are amplified.

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WHAT SHOULD YOU KNOW WHEN TRYING THCP?

 

If you are at least a semi-regular cannabis user, you have likely already consumed THCP. It is present in trace amounts in many strains of Sativa. As not all strains have been analyzed at the molecular level, it's quite possible that some strains have a higher percentage of THCP. An unexpected high even with a small dose may be due to the presence of THCP.

As with any cannabis use, observe your body's reactions and limit your dosage if you are experiencing side effects. THC may cause paranoia, anxiety, fatigue, dry mouth and eyes, memory loss, and gastrointestinal distress in some users. It's reasonable to assume that as THCP binds to more CB1 receptors, its side effects may be more intense.