THC-P, also known by its more scientific name – tetrahydrocannabiphorol, is a type of natural cannabinoid which is similar to THC and is found in extremely low concentrations in the cannabis plant.
The potential of THC-P is considered to be 33 times more active than that of THC. Therefore, it is quite unique. THC-P is generally produced in low concentrations in plants. One can extract THC-P from marijuana and hemp plants using various techniques like chromatography.
CBD oil – illustrative photo. Image credit: Erin Hinterland via Pixabay, free license
No doubt that the discovery of THC-P has created quite a stir in the oeuvre of naturally occurring phytocannabinoid found in cannabis. THC-P was discovered in late 2019 by an Italian research team, who found it to be one among the total of 120 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant.
Although there are many more discoveries coming the way, THC-P has been found to have a much higher potency than any other cannabinoid. This has caused an increase in the value of THC-P products in the market. It is better to know that Delta 9-THC products are still illegal in most states. Both products carry a lot of medical and health benefits and create a psychoactive effect on people. But, THC-P is recently getting recognition and getting popular because of its wide variety of health benefits.
THC-P Features
It has been found by researchers that THC-P contains elongated alkyl side chains, which means the carbon atom strings are much longer than that of the normal THC. This facilitates a secured attachment to the receptors in the body of the diseased. As a result, just a small amount of THC-P is enough to create an impact on the various functions governed by the endocannabinoid system as compared to THC.
THC-P is excessively stimulating as compared to the delta-8 THC, which tends to be much more calming. Therefore, THC-P has the potential to cause relief of chronic pain with more possibility of psychoactive effects.
THC-P Advantages for Health
Although THC-P is entirely new to the world of cannabis, the advantages that it offers to health are quite promising. Cannabis contains a large number of compounds, which are active cannabinoids that efficiently act upon the receptors of cannabinoids in the body.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are currently the primary compounds that can be found in the highest concentration.
While THC affects the psychoactive effects of marijuana along with euphoria and psychosis, CBD doesn’t offer psychoactive effects but entertains anti-anxiety and anti-psychoactive properties. Therefore the pain-relieving effect heavily depends on the concentration. Below are given some of the health benefits that THC-P offers:
More Potential Pain Relief
THC-P proves more potent in relieving chronic pain than delta-9 THC. This is because THC-P interacts with a much higher affinity for cannabinoid receptors as compared to THC. The higher binding of THC-P to CB1 receptors undoubtedly results in greater potency. Most of the users who have taken the dosage have given positive reviews regarding its efficiency.
Provide Sedative Effects
An increased level of THC-P also helps patients having insomnia. THC-P has the potential to produce sedative effects that are similar to a high dosage of traditional THC. The usage is proven to cause relief of intractable pain and secures a soothing sleep. A considerable dosage allows the patient to relax from stress and anxiety. Therefore, it is extremely effective for people who struggle to sleep at night as a result of excessive anxiety and stress.
Used in Treating Depression or Bipolar Disorder
Psychotic disorders have become an extremely common issue nowadays, which needs proper treatment and medication. With the awareness of health post-pandemic, researchers are struggling to innovate proper medication that would lower the rate of depression.
THC-P is also known for additional treatment of chronic depression as well as bipolar disorder. Additionally, people suffering from panic attacks may use it as well. Cannabinoids are known to provide full-body relief after their recommended dosage.
Usually, several minor side effects might stem from consuming higher doses of THC-P, including lethargy, dry mouth, and dizziness. Therefore it’s quite safe to use, and it can be easily said that its benefits are much higher than its side effects. However, the side effects occur due to its higher potency as compared to THC, more psychoactivity happens to be at risk.
Best for Patients Fighting Cancer
We all have more or less general ideas about how painful cancer is. The excess pain becomes unbearable for the patient, and a constant painkiller needs to be provided to give some relief. A patient suffering from cancer can be given a high dose of THC to secure some additional comfort. But with the innovation of THC-P, a small dosage proves beneficial to the patient against nausea, vomiting, and pain while undergoing chemotherapy. It is known to effectively lower the intensity of pain and help them relax.
What about Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is generally caused by inflammation of the dysfunctional nerves. The pain persists for a long period and becomes unbearable as days pass by. If not treated in time, it might get worse. The innovation of THC-P as a type of natural cannabinoid is known widely for relieving chronic pain.
It is very similar to that THC but comes with a higher potential and effectiveness. This is because both types differ in the composition of the carbon atom chain. While THC consists of a five-atom carbon chain, THC-P comes with a seven-atom carbon chain. This escalates the effect that it offers to patients suffering from chronic pain. Even if THC-P comes with a lot of benefits, more research is still needed to prove all the facts and make it more legal in other states.
No doubt that the discovery of THC-P by researchers in the last few years has been a game changer in the world of medication. It has been a reliever for patients going through chemotherapy. THC-P doesn’t require a higher dose as compared to THC. Only a small dosage is enough for the patient to feel comfortable for a considerable amount of time.