THCP (tetrahydrocannabiphorol) is an extremely rare and potent cannabinoid. First discovered in 2019 by Italian researchers, THCP is similar in structure to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), generally regarded as the most psychoactive compound in cannabis. However, what makes it different is the fact that it has a longer alkyl side chain; seven carbon atoms, compared to five on the THC plant. But that minor difference greatly influences how THCP interacts with the endocannabinoid system.
THCP binds much more efficiently at the CB1 receptor in the brain, which mediates the psychoactive effects of cannabis. It is estimated that THCP is anywhere up to 33 times more potent than THC as an activator of these receptors. These things combined mean that even small doses of THCP may have effects that are significantly stronger than normal THC.
While potent, THCP has gone for the most part uninvestigated. Initial research has shown that this could have a therapeutic value in the treatment of pain, sleep disorders, and anxiety, although this has yet to be clinically tested. Considering its strength, care should be taken to start low and go slow when taking THCP.
THCP has not been widely available, but is beginning to emerge in some specialized cannabis products. As research pushes on, THCP could very much reshape how we understand and use cannabinoids for both recreational and medicinal purposes.