If you are like most people, you clicked on this article because you have no idea what THC-O is. But no need to despair! Unlike its more popular relatives, THC-O does not get a lot of press because it is not as accessible as CBD or the more conventional THC compounds.
What Is THC-O?
THC-O-Acetate which is the full scientific name for THC-O is the same thing as THC Acetate and ATHC. This is not to be confused with THCA or THCa. THCA refers to tetrahydrocannabinolic acid which is the parent molecule of THC. The ‘a’ in THCA stands for acid. The compound only converts to THC when it undergoes decarboxylation. Within ATHC, A stands for acetate which is one of the major differences.
Another huge thing to note about ATHC is the fact that it’s typically from a laboratory environment. It requires very specialized knowledge, tools, and a sterilized environment before decarboxylation and the other processes necessary to process its conversion can take place.
Understanding its Chemical Composition
Like THC, CBD, CBN, and CBG, THC-O is also a cannabinoid that interacts with the cannabinoid receptors in the brain. In plain terms, it also can get you high, provide relief from discomfort and alleviate feelings of stress. The difference starts to set in when you consider the fact that THC-O does not occur naturally. THC or CBD on the other hand, do.
The compound is only produced when raw cannabis is exposed to a process known as decarboxylation. This process also removes all other chemical compounds including terpenes and flavonoids. It leaves behind a potent THC isolate that has no flavor or aroma.
Within its natural state, the compound resembles a heavy brown liquid that looks very similar to motor oil. This among other reasons is why THC-O is referred to as an analog. Analogs are compounds that have similar structures to that of other compounds but differ simply in respect to a particular component. In the case of THC-O, THC is the original compound making THC-O an analog.
What Makes THC-O Special?
Because of the acetate molecule added to the base THC molecule, THC-O is notably stronger than the base THC molecule. It is about 3x stronger than THC and this strength occurs during use. And you might be wondering, THC does a pretty good job of providing for my strength needs. Would I need something 300% stronger? Well, let’s consider the wellness uses for THC-O.
Because each person’s composition is different from the next person’s, THC does not always have the desired wellness effect in the form of relief, stress alleviation, and so on. THC-O on the other hand is so strong that it can stimulate the cannabinoid receptors of the brain in a way that regular THC cannot.
This makes THC-O special and a much more desired option to users looking particularly for relief from discomfort or stress alleviation where regular THC has failed. This also makes it interesting because of its heightened medical benefits.
Exploring the Effects of THC-O
Because THC-O is a heightened form of THC, it provides all the benefits enjoyed with THC albeit in a heightened state. The effects also differ in the way users experience the highs with THC-O’s high often being spiritual and introspective, with some users describing the high as similar to that of LSD and shrooms, something not attainable with regular THC products.
Finally, it is important to note as with all other cannabis-related products to be careful with your usage. As a company, we regularly advise all first-time users to begin with a light dose and work their way up to their optimal dose.
Premium THC-O Vape Cartridges from Grassroots Harvest, flavored with organic terpenes!
CBD, Delta 8 THC, Select Spectrum THC, and THC-O : Which is Best for You?
It is no secret that CBD and other compounds extracted from hemp have continued to enjoy a steady rise in popularity. That’s thanks to the amazing benefits each compound might provide its users. But of the numerous cannabinoids available on the market, how do you choose the right cannabinoid for you?
CBD
Cannabinol, known commonly as CBD is the second most common and active compound that can be located within marijuana and hemp plants. Over the last few days, CBD has become a huge part of holistic and alternative medicine and it is currently being adopted by millions across country to achieve optimum wellness. Among CBD’s properties is its inability to induce the feelings of highness within users. According to a report by the World Health Organization – “In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential. To date, there is no evidence of public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”
CBD works by reacting with the cannabinoid receptors within the body’s endocannabinoid system. The body has two receptors namely:
- CB1 receptors are all through the body especially in the brain. They are responsible for movement, discomfort, mood, appetite, memories and other bodily function.
- CB2 receptors are found more within the immune system of the body. they are responsible for regulating discomfort and inflammation.
Delta-8 THC
Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol or better known as D8 THC is another naturally occurring cannabinoid found within cannabis plants. Its popularity has continued to rise due to its health benefits, its legal status and most importantly – its reduced side effects. As the name implies, D8 THC is awfully similar to D9 THC with the major difference between Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC is the location of a double bond between both carbons. With Delta-8, the double bonds are located on the 8th carbon and located on the 9th carbon with Delta-9 THC.
Another reason between the two is the fact that D8 THC has reduced side effects. These reduced effects make D8 THC perfect for users looking to enjoy the benefits of D9 THC but on a milder scale.
Select Spectrum THC
Third on our list is the current rave of the market – Select Spectrum. This refers to a select combination of cannabinoids including 10mg of D9 THC, 10mg of CBD and other terpenes and flavonoids in order to achieve what is described as an entourage effect. What makes ‘Select Spectrum’ unique and popular is the way the cannabinoids interact in order to provide this effect. In addition, select spectrum is also legal making it ideal for users looking to enjoy their daily treats without fear.
Select Spectrum is perfect for users looking to enjoy a new experience. Entourage effect is a completely new experience and is great for anyone looking to try new experience. Users also looking to enjoy D9 THC in a new way can also try it out.
THC-O
Finally, we have THC-O also known as THC-O-Acetate, ATHC and THC Acetate. This cannabidiol is not the same as THCA or THCa. THCA means tetrahydrocannabinolic acid which refers to the parent molecule of THC. And the a within THCA stands for acid and it is the only compound that converts to THC when it undergoes decarboxylation. With ATHC, A stands for acetate which is one of the major differences.
Another unique thing about ATHC is its unique production needs. It cannot be produced within a laboratory environment and it requires very specific knowledge, tools and a sterile environment before decarboxylation and the other necessary processes can take place.
The end result of this, is a stronger and more potent cannabinoid. Quite possibly the strongest cannabinoid on this list. That’s why we recommend this to users looking to enjoy a more powerful high than typical.
Buy THC-O Online:
At Grassroots Harvest, we’re proud to offer two product types infused with premium THC-O. The first are THC-O Vape Cartridges. These come pre-filled with our THC-O blend, which also includes organic terpenes. These terpenes are added for flavor, and the blends selected are meant to replicate some classic strains of cannabis!
The second kind of THC-O product we offer is THC-O Hemp Flower! These are premium hemp buds that have been carefully infused with THC-O! Two strains available, CBG and Sour Lifter.
