THCa vs THCp: Understanding the Core Differences

The cannabis world is buzzing with discoveries like THCp (tetrahydrocannabiphorol) and THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid). THCp, a highly potent psychoactive compound, and THCa, a non-psychoactive precursor to THC, each offers unique properties and potential benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the THCa vs THCp key differences, effects, and uses to help you better understand these fascinating cannabinoids.

Understanding How Cannabis Gets You High

When exploring THCa vs THCP, it’s important to understand how cannabis compounds, known as phytocannabinoids, work within the body. These natural compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system, particularly with receptors such as CB1, which are largely responsible for the plant’s psychoactive effects. Whether through smoking, vaping, or consuming edibles, phytocannabinoids bind to these receptors and influence the nervous system in different ways, depending on their unique chemical structures.

When comparing THC a and THCp, THCa is non-psychoactive in its raw form but can convert to a psychoactive form when heated. THCp, on the other hand, is inherently a highly potent psychoactive compound.

What Is THCp?

Discovered in 2019 by a team of Italian researchers, THCp (tetrahydrocannabiphorol) is one of the newest cannabinoids to emerge in the cannabis world. While it exists in trace amounts in raw cannabis plants, it is typically extracted and synthesized for use in more concentrated products.

How THCp Is Produced

To create concentrated amounts of THCp, lab professionals synthesize it from CBG, the “Mother of All Cannabinoids,” using a process called decarboxylation. This involves heating cannabinoids to alter their chemical structure, the same process by which THCa converts to Delta-9 THC.

Uses and Benefits of THCp

THCp is significantly more potent than Delta-9 THC, making it a popular addition to a variety of cannabis products, including distillates, edibles, topicals, and gummies. Due to its strength, THCp is often used sparingly to enhance the overall potency of a product.

For example, our Hero Dose Rapid Onset THC Gummies combine 0.5mg of THCp with 15mg each of Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, creating a powerful, balanced experience. A 10-count pack of these gummies is available online for just $39, and you can subscribe and save 15%.

THCp and Its Legal Status

Like THCa, THCp is not restricted by the 2018 Farm Bill, which defines legal hemp as cannabis products containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight. Only Delta-9 THC is regulated, meaning THCp products are federally legal as long as they comply with the Delta-9 threshold.

You can order THCp products online from trusted providers. Shopping online offers convenience and access to third-party-tested products, with certificates of analysis (COAs) available for added peace of mind.

What Is THCa?

While THC is widely recognized as the compound responsible for cannabis’s euphoric effects, THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is its non-psychoactive precursor. The “a” in THCa refers to its carboxylic acid group, which keeps it inactive.

The Origins of THCa

THCa is derived from cannabigerol (CBG), often called the “Mother of All Cannabinoids.” As cannabis plants mature, CBG converts into various cannabinoids, including THCa. In its raw form, THCa won’t produce psychoactive effects, as it needs to be heated to become active THC.

Applications of THCa

THCa transforms into Delta-9 THC—the well-known psychoactive form of THC—when exposed to heat in a process called decarboxylation. For this reason, many people smoke or vaporize THCa products to experience its psychoactive effects.

The Legal Landscape of THCa

Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is federally legal as long as it contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight. THCa itself is not regulated by the Farm Bill, meaning adults 21 and over can purchase THCa products like flower, vapes, and pre-rolls from online retailers. However, state laws vary, so it’s always a good idea to check your local regulations before buying THCa.

Key Differences Between THCa vs THCp

To help clarify the distinctions between these two cannabinoids, here’s a concise breakdown of the five key differences:

1. Origins: How They Derive From CBG

THCp and THCa originate from CBG, the “Mother of All Cannabinoids,” but they form through different processes.

• THCp is synthesized from CBG using decarboxylation, a heat process that alters the chemical structure.
• THCa, on the other hand, is produced from CBG via an enzyme called THCa synthase.
  Interestingly, THCa can also convert into Delta-9 THC through decarboxylation.

2. Psychoactive Effects

• THCa is non-psychoactive in its raw form. It must be heated to convert into Delta-9 THC, which produces its euphoric effects.
• THCp, in contrast, is naturally psychoactive and far more potent than Delta-9 THC, delivering a stronger experience even for seasoned cannabis users.

3. Chemical Structure

The structural differences between THCp and THCa are significant.

• THCa features a smaller molecular structure, while THCp’s longer side chain is thought to enhance its interaction with the body’s cannabinoid receptors, contributing to its higher potency.

4. Product Availability

• THCp is primarily found in lab-derived products like concentrates, vapes, edibles, and gummies due to its high potency and rarity.
• THCa is more commonly enjoyed in its raw form as a cannabis flower, making it a popular choice for joints, bowls, and pre-rolls.

5. Discovery Timeline

Although both cannabinoids are relatively new to the cannabis conversation, THCa has been known for a bit longer.

• THCa was first identified in 1995.
• THCp, however, was only discovered in 2019, making it a more recent addition to the cannabis landscape.

Related Post:

• Is THCa Legal in Georgia
• Understanding THCa Flower
• Florida Cannabis Laws: The Legality of Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 THC, and THCa

FAQs

1. What is the primary difference between THCp and THCa?
   The main difference lies in their psychoactive properties. THCp is inherently psychoactive and much more potent than Delta-9 THC, while THCa is non-psychoactive in its raw form but can convert into psychoactive Delta-9 THC when heated.
2. Can I get high from consuming raw THCa?
   No, raw THCa does not produce psychoactive effects. However, when it is heated (through smoking, vaping, or cooking), it undergoes decarboxylation and converts to Delta-9 THC, which can produce euphoric effects.
3. Why is THCp considered more potent than Delta-9 THC?
   THCp has a longer molecular side chain, which enhances its binding affinity to the CB1 receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system. This stronger interaction results in higher potency compared to Delta-9 THC.
4. What types of products contain THCp and THCa?
   Due to its potency, THCp is commonly found in concentrated products like vapes, edibles, and gummies. THCa, on the other hand, is often consumed in its raw form through flowers, pre-rolls, or concentrates, especially by those seeking its benefits without psychoactive effects.