Farm Bill-Compliant Cannabinoids: THC-P, THC-B, THC-A, etc.

I recently journeyed into the evolving world of legal hemp products by trying new THCA-based vapes, flowers and edibles. We learned about a variety of hemp derivatives offered by mail on sites like YouTube and sold over the counter legally in all fifty US states. By blending Delta 8, D-9, THCA and THC-P, manufacturers are formulating the most effective cannabinoid blends of legal hemp derived products. Our favorite brands that we found were Pure-P THC-P gummies, Neighborhood Gardens Strawberry Nanotech THCA syrup 500 mg, and the Hidden Hills Club ‘Heady Blend’ THCA vaporizers. For context, while typing this I’m enjoying a Half Bak’d brand disposable vaporizer made from a THCA + D-8 blend, purchased from a convenience store in rural Texas. The vape tastes great and the effects are so noticeably similar to any dispensary THC vape that we decided to investigate more hemp derived products.

Before we dive into any new cannabinoids, let’s introduce the science of how our bodies ingest cannabis. Scientists have made significant strides in understanding the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex cell-signaling system that plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including mood, appetite, sleep, and immune function. The ECS was first discovered in the early 1990s by researchers exploring the effects of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, on the human body. Dr. Raphael Mechoulam and his team identified the first endocannabinoid, anandamide, in 1992. Subsequently, they discovered 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), another endocannabinoid. Currently, scientists have identified two primary endocannabinoids:

  1. Anandamide (AEA)

  2. 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)

Two main types of receptors, CB1 and CB2, are part of the ECS. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are prevalent in the peripheral tissues, especially in the immune system. 

Scientists are studying how cannabinoids, both endocannabinoids produced by the body and those from external sources (like cannabis), interact with the ECS. Understanding the ECS has led to the development of medications targeting cannabinoid receptors, such as in the treatment of certain types of epilepsy. Apart from anandamide and 2-AG, there are indications of other endocannabinoids and related compounds in the body. However, the research is still evolving, and more compounds may be discovered in future research.

Now let's refer to some of the hemp derived compounds that are popularly sold in compliance with the 2018 Farm Bill. 

THC-P is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in cannabis plants and is believed to be much stronger and longer lasting than other cannabinoids. It has been known to affect cannabinoid CBN1 receptors over 30x stronger than THC. Chemical composition of THC-P stands out with the unique structure known for psycho activity and also relaxing benefits. THC-P will become more commonly known and is being used in gummies, vapes and more formulas.

Farm Bill compliant vaporizers are made from a blend of synthesized cannabinoids and it’s common to see Delta-8, D-9, Delta 9, THC Ultra + THC-P and THCA blended into one formulation. THCA and THC have different chemical make ups, but after decarboxylation produce the same psychoactive THC molecular byproduct. It's this decarboxylation reaction which happens during heat or light exposure that turns raw cannabis THCA into activated THC.

Delta 8 THC is another popular cannabinoid synthesized from hemp. D-8 is known for milder psychoactive effects and is acceptable for long-term use because of internal medicinal benefits. THCB is another popular cannabinoid being studied for its mild effects with help for inflammation and its interaction with the body's endocannabinoid system. Other forms of hemp derived THC to explore include but are not limited to the following types:

• Delta 9 THC

• Delta 8 THC 

• Delta 6 THC 

• Delta 10 THC 

• Delta 11 THC 

• THC - O 

• THC P 

• THC A

• THC H 

• THC JD 

• THC B 

• THC X

- THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid): THCA is the non-psychoactive precursor to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) found in raw cannabis plants. When cannabis is heated, such as through smoking or cooking, THCA undergoes decarboxylation, transforming into the psychoactive THC.

- THCB (Tetrahydrocannabivarin): THCB is a lesser-known cannabinoid found in some strains of cannabis. It has a structure similar to THC but produces different effects. THCB is being researched for its potential therapeutic properties, including its influence on appetite and metabolism.

- THC-8 (Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol): THC-8 is a minor cannabinoid with psychoactive properties, but its effects are considered to be milder than THC. It occurs in very small amounts in the cannabis plant. Some users prefer THC-8 for its reported ability to provide a more clear-headed experience compared to traditional THC.

As for the best quality hemp-derived extractions, it's essential to consider factors such as extraction methods, source of hemp, and third-party testing. Common high-quality extractions include full-spectrum CBD oil, broad-spectrum CBD oil (containing various cannabinoids but no THC), and CBD isolates (pure CBD). Brands that transparently provide information about their extraction processes and offer third-party lab results tend to be reliable choices. Popular extraction methods include CO2 extraction and ethanol extraction. 

The THCA flower we purchased originated in Oregon, which is an elite market for any craft cannabis. The two strains feature super frosty indoor grown looks. The first one is ODO Wan Kenobi with total cannabinoids ~23%, Delta 9 THC 0.29% (just within federal regulations) and THCA testing at ~22%. This strain is fruity tasting, very clean bud structure resembling Gelato cultivars with dark purple hues hiding behind a frosty exterior. 

The second strain of legal THCA flower we bought from Trap Haus is the Devil’s Mistress with Total cannabinoids ~27%, Delta 9 THC 0.27% and THCA testing at ~26%. This THCA flower is 2018 Farm Bill compliant and, while underage sale is still prohibited, this flower is legal in all 50 states for purchase by mail or locally from any cannabis friendly retailer. 

This product really surprised me since we have been so underwhelmed by Delta 8/CBD gummies in recent years. Pure P's Gummies contain a blend of hemp derived THC-P at 8mg per piece, 10 pieces in the tin, 80 mgs total. These are normal sized gummies that weigh about 6g each. The flavor is called Melonious Assault and tastes like watermelon plus strawberry, pleasantly fruity. THCP is pretty new to the market and scientists have just recently understood that THC-P occurs naturally in cannabis plants but is easily synthesized from hemp. This cannabinoid is thought to be many times more powerful than THC but more science will need to be applied to the use of these new cannabinoids. In my own opinion, these gummies were as powerful as any dispensary product. These are not like CBD only gummies, the effects of these hemp derived cannabinoids are meant to be felt.

Finally, I purchased Neighborhood Gardens’ nano-tech cannabis syrup containing 500 mg of THCA with a recommended serving of 10 mg (responsibly follow the dosing recommendations). This strawberry flavor syrup is meant to be infused into any drink or consumed directly orally. Use caution when trying new products because even though THCA products are compliant with the Farm Bill it is unclear how the effects differ from cannabis THC products. It's noted on each of the THCA products that they have not been evaluated by the FDA.

THCA products are integrated into the mainstream convenience market and we will watch to see what new hemp derived brands will become top sellers. It's nice to have options for edibles, vapes and flowers that are safe to possess in all fifty states. It's not safe to say whether these can be used safely to pass a drug test. My guess is that these substances will show up like any other THC cannabinoid on a drug test. How are authorities reacting to these new derivatives of cannabis? Since the Farm Bill, it seems that companies are expanding production of legal THCA flower, gummies, syrup, vapes and more.

It’s time to recognize the decriminalization that the Farm Bill provided to all fifty states. The hemp industry has responded with craft hemp products beyond what anyone else imagined years ago. It's like how the vegan scene exploded with more choices and modern techniques in recent years. Modern cannabis users are well aware there's a lot more medicinal benefits beyond psychedelic effects of cannabis. Society deserves more choices than basic CBD tinctures, creams and dried up industrial hemp joints. This powerful cannabis plant, she always finds a way. If this is the immediate future of legal cannabis in all fifty states, then I’m here for it. Let’s give these products a try.