Cannabis Compound THCP 30 Times Stronger than THC?
Newly Discovered Molecule May Answer Questions About “Strong” Cannabis – LPC
Italian scientists have discovered a new cannabis compound THCP (tetrahydrocannabiphorol) that could be 30 times stronger than THC. The researchers believe that the compound’s makeup would result in a stronger high. Until now, no naturally occurring cannabinoids have been found with more than five atoms. THCP has seven, making it 33 stronger than THC.
“The challenge is that it can take a long time to isolate, especially with rare sources,” said Dr. Jane Ishmael, associate professor in Oregon State University’s College of Pharmacy. This newly discovered cannabis compound THCP is in such small amounts, it would be hard to locate.”It’s a surprise to find the natural products from a cannabis plant that we’ve known about for a long time.”
However, it’s the effects of the cannabis compound THCP that is most interesting. And if it’s so much stronger, how come its effects haven’t been felt? Perhaps they have, the authors state.
“These compounds have higher affinity for the receptors in the human body,” said Dr. Cinzia Citti, lead author of the research. She is a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia in Italy. “In cannabis varieties where THC is present in very low concentrations, then we can think that the presence of another, more active cannabinoid can explain those effects.”
In other words, “strong cannabis” may not just be a higher concentration of THC, but a higher concentration of the new cannabis compound THCP. “Some particularly potent cannabis varieties have a stronger effect than can be explained by the presence of THC alone,” the article states. (Please see a link to the full article below.)
Cannabis Compound THCP Shows the Need for More Research – LPC
New discoveries like the cannabis compound THCP underlines the need for more research. Indeed, some researchers have said that cannabis research restrictions are a danger to public health. Meanwhile the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) also called for more research into the risks and benefits of cannabis. This would help doctors across Canada who do not feel they have enough information to give a cannabis prescription to their patients.
Although the Italtian scientists don’t believe that the cannabis compound THCP has many medicinal benefits, they also discovered CBDP, which may. Only research will provide straight answers.
“Historically, many of our medicines have been derived by or inspired by natural products,” Dr. Ishmael said. “New compounds that bind with very high affinity will give scientists a new probe into biological sciences.”
The new cannabis compound THCP as well as CBDP are proof of that.
This editorial content from the LPC News Team provides analysis, insight, and perspective on current news articles. To read the source article this commentary is based upon, please click on the link below.
