Hype /ha͜ip/ noun, masculine [the]
particularly spectacular, rousing advertising (which causes euphoric enthusiasm for a product).
Based on the definition of hype, the hype surrounding the synthetic cannabinoid known as THCP, THC-P or Tetrahydrocannabiphorol could not be more inappropriate. Often referred to as the “superstar of cannabinoids’ ‘, its potency is compared to that of THC, with the difference that it is an estimated 33 times higher. Why it is still not banned in Germany remains a phenomenon among the known absurdities.
WHO AND WHAT IS THC-P?
THC-P is one of around 150 known phytocannabinoids that occur naturally in cannabis. Discovered and isolated in 2019, it differs from other cannabinoids due to the structure of 7 carbon atoms in the side chain, instead of the known maximum number of 5. However, it can be assumed that a natural product is purchased when buying THC-P: Go sit on a cactus. This is because it is present in such small quantities in the hemp plant that it can only be used commercially through synthetic production.
And not only is this more than a small, subtle difference to THC and CBD, but also the state of research. Studies over the last ten years in particular have analyzed the effects of cannabis and products derived from industrial hemp, such as CBD oil or CBD flowers, and have demonstrated the possible positive influence on the senses and well-being. Unlike with HHC, THC-P & Co., no one knows or can know exactly what effect the intake will have, either in the short or long term. It is not uncommon to read about the potential for medical use. This is purely for marketing purposes, but is far removed from logical conclusions. Because until it has been researched, questioned and clarified, it seems sub-intelligent to muster any kind of enthusiasm in connection with the consumption of THC-P. Which, by the way, is detectable in tests of fitness to drive.
EFFECT OF THC-P – WHEN LITTLE IS JUST TOO MUCH
It is simply pure speculation at this point as to what effect and what possible dangers are specifically associated with THCP. It is assumed that the psychoactive effect is similar to that of THC, but much more intense. Experience reports therefore often indicate that the cannabinoid is perceived as too strong.
According to current knowledge, this is due to the enormously pronounced affinity to the CB1 receptor, which is mainly found in the brain. The human endocannabinoid system, part of the nervous system, is made up of two types of receptors, mainly CB1 and CB2. These are distributed throughout the body and respond to the effects of endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids. THC has a strong interaction with the CB1 receptor, which causes the psychoactive effect. Just like THC-P, except that it is 33 times stronger. This is most likely due to the long hydrocarbon chain.
In contrast, CBD and other non-psychoactive cannabinoids are hardly attracted to the CB1 receptor.
Tests on mice showed that their movement was enormously restricted by THC-P and they became sleepy. And there were some other effects that probably fall into the undesirable category:
- Short-term memory lapses
- Confusion
- Dry mouth
- Increased heart rate
- Hallucination
- Paranoia or anxiety
But despite the lack of knowledge and unknown risks, it is possible to purchase it in Germany. While this is reserved for researched natural substances such as weed, whose decriminalization is currently nothing but a political farce.
IS THC-P AVAILABLE IN GERMANY?
So it’s good that there is a choice of possibly impure, harmful alternatives. Buying THCP is possible in head shops and late-night stores, especially known in Berlin, where they offer THCP vapes as part of their smoking accessories. Online stores for CBD flowers also have THCP distillates and THC-P flowers in their range, right next to equally questionable HHC products. And here and there there are also edibles in the form of smiling little THCP bears. Well, well, well… Why is none of this to be found at Tom Hemp’s? Because we trust in the magic of nature, but not in a lack of experience and knowledge.
RUNNIN` FROM THE POLICE – IS THC-P LEGAL?
And while we’re doing that, the labs are working on new, artificially created cannabinoids faster than the laws can keep track of them. Oh sweet Germany… And so it is that THCP is currently not on the list of new psychoactive substances in the NpSG, while in Switzerland and Austria, as with HHC and HHCP, it has long since been classified as illegal. This is understandable and, in the absence of controls on the purity and quality of the products, necessary from a health perspective alone.
WHY THCP?
… there is no need for us to ask, because there is no reason. At least not a positive one for us. As long as the lack of studies and research results do not convincingly show otherwise, we are left with the mission to which we dedicate ourselves every day: CBD for a better lifestyle.
STAY SAFE. STAY GREEN.