If you're new to the world of cannabis, you might be wondering what all the buzz surrounding cannabinoids is about. Cannabinoids are the active ingredients in cannabis, and each one has its own unique effects. THC is perhaps the best-known cannabinoid, but there are others like CBD, Delta8, HHC, and THC-O that are also worth learning about as they are rapidly gaining popularity. Normally you would find a THC cartridge at a dispensary, but with the 2018 farm bill, you can now find hemp-derived minor cannabinoid products at your local vape store.
In this post, we'll take a closer look at THC-O, what it does, and how it differs from other cannabinoids. So whether you're a newbie or a seasoned cannabis user, read on to learn more about this important phytocannabinoid!
What is THC-O?
THC-O is a form of THC derived from the Cannabis Sativa L. plant (within both hemp and cannabis). Because of this, the synthetic cannabinoid shares a similar molecular structure to that of THC. The difference in structure can be seen in the addition of an acetate molecule to a base THC molecule. This molecular addition is where THC-O gets its more official name, THC-O acetate, from.
THC-O may seem like a new discovery, but the truth is that it’s been around since the 1940s when it was being tested by the United States military. The recent rise in THC-O popularity and product production has seen the cannabinoid pop up in a plethora of products.
Will THC-O Get Me High?
It's no secret that THC has psychoactive effects, so it's easy to assume a molecule with a similar structure would have them as well. And that assumption would be correct. A report on the cannabis plant observed THC-O being two times as potent as THC.
Posts, on websites like reddit, seem to confirm this as users record the intense highs and psychedelic effects experienced from THC-O products. So, while there is still much to be discovered about this cannabinoid, user experience seems to put THC-O at the top of the potency pile.
THC-O and the Endocannabinoid System
Some people believe that THC-O is more effective than other cannabinoids because of the way it interacts with the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in the development of the central nervous system and the body’s response to environmental insults. It is composed of cannabinoid receptors, with the most abundant being CB1 cannabinoid receptors. THC-O is known to bind directly to these sensitive CB1 receptors, which could explain the increased potency of the cannabinoid.
Is THC-O Legal?
Since THC-O is a hemp-derived cannabinoid, is it classified as a legal substance under the 2018 Farm Bill. This legality allows it to be sold in states where cannabis is legal, along with states where it is illegal. This means consumers can find THC-O in a multitude of products and places.
Where to Buy THC-O
Due to its legal status, THC-O products can be found both online and in store. A quick search for “vape store near me” or “THC-O product”, should bring up a list of store fronts and websites where you can buy it. Consumers can find the cannabinoid in gummy edibles, tinctures, reusable and disposable vapes, and even sprayed onto hemp to make THC-O flower.
Buyers can even try out products that have THC-O mixed with a cannabinoid they already know they like. No matter what form you buy THC-O, when purchasing these products it is important to review any certificates of analysis to make sure they are high quality and safe to use.
King of Cannabinoids?
Until more research is conducted, the debate over which cannabinoids are most effective will continue. However, those who have tried THC-O products claim that it produces fewer psychoactive effects than other cannabinoids.
If you're looking for a cannabinoid that binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, THC-O may be worth trying. E1011 Labs offers their own THC-O product, with the Higgs Lemon Lime stelo™, that can be shipped directly to your door. The stelo™ are pre-filled, pre-packed flower pods designed to be used with the elon® heat-not-burn device.
