Are you familiar with the cannabinoid THCP?
What is THCP?
The discovery of the cannabinoid THCP (tetrahydrocannabinol) was only made in 2019, when a group of Italian scientists published their paper in the journal Scientific Report and concluded that THCP could be the most potent cannabinoid of all known cannabinoids.
The Italian scientists were able to show that the cannabinoid THCP occurs naturally in cannabis. Unfortunately, it is so scarce that extracting it directly from the plant would not be financially viable. This is one of the reasons why the cannabinoid THCP is extracted in the laboratory using more complex chemical processes.
THCP interacts with the endocannabinoid system
Cannabinoids are known to be compounds that have the potential to interact with the endocannabinoid system. Some cannabinoids can stimulate the receptors of the endocannabinoid system, others bind to them without activating them, and still others block their effects. However, a group of Italian scientists reported in a scientific study that the cannabinoid THCP binds to the CB1 receptor 33 times better than the better-known cannabinoid THC.
In the case of the cannabinoid THC, its molecule binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors via a five-carbon side chain. However, laboratories have been able to artificially prepare compounds with a higher number of carbons. One of these is the cannabinoid THCP, which has as many as seven carbons.
Effects of THCP
It is by acting on the endocannabinoid system in the human body and activating CB1 and CB2 receptors that a range of effects are triggered in the brain, leading to changes in consciousness. Such changes include euphoric feelings, changes in visual and auditory perception or, for example, changes in the interpretation of time.
Although research on the cannabinoid THCP is in its early days, early studies show that THCP products could relieve pain, combat nausea or help fight epilepsy.
Preliminary findings from these aforementioned studies also suggest that in terms of effects on the human body, the profile of THCP is strikingly similar to the cannabinoid THC. In fact, pain relief, a sense of calm and balance, and feelings of dizziness or anxiety may also be experienced.
For some users, THCP products may support the process of falling asleep, but for others they may exacerbate possible insomnia problems.
Further scientific research is awaited
Scientists have not yet established any standardised dose or clear evidence of long-term effects. Therefore, it should be borne in mind that there is not yet much reliable information on THCPs and it is advisable for everyone to be more than cautious when assessing THCPs.
THC products are strictly prohibited in many countries around the world. Exceptions can be found, but especially in Europe and Asia, regulators are very reserved about the substance.
As the cannabinoid THCP has not yet been sufficiently studied by scientists, it is not on the list of banned addictive substances in most countries.
What THCP products are available?
It is the legality of the cannabinoid THCP that could be very tempting to users. Manufacturers have reacted to the popularity of THCP and there are already a variety of THCP products on the market. Everyone can choose from THCP vape, THCP cartridges, oils, drops or edibles.
However, due to the lack of regulation, it is advisable to buy such products from reputable manufacturers. This is the only way to ensure that your product is both safe and correctly labelled.
Although THCP has not yet been listed as an addictive substance, the status of this controversial substance may be changing rapidly. This is why you need to stay up-to-date and react skilfully to any changes in legislation.
Conclusion
The cannabinoid THCP is a hot new addition to the global cannabis market, from which many have high hopes. Although scientists mention its possible strong effects on the human body, a more comprehensive study on this substance is still lacking. This is why it is advisable to approach THCP products with caution and to test their effects with humility and respect.
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