Is There Really a Cannabinoid 30x Stronger than THC? Say What?

A Cannabinoid 30X Stronger Than THC?

stronger than THC tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP)

There have been many exciting developments about cannabis within the last five years, but the news about cannabinoids are among the most promising

To date, we know that there are a few hundred cannabinoids that each have their own therapeutic properties. However, researchers at Italy’s University of Salento have just found two more cannabinoids.

Named as cannabidiphorol (CBDP) and tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP), they discovered unique properties that look promising. THCP, in particular, was found to be 30 times more potent than THC – at least when administered to animal models. It remains to be seen what we can expect with these cannabinoids in the future, but the researchers think that THCP may be responsible for giving each cannabis strain its own different effects.

“A number of clinical trials and a growing body of literature provide real evidence of the pharmacological potential of cannabis and cannabinoids on a wide range of disorders from sleep to anxiety, multiple sclerosis, autism, and neuropathic pain,” says the researchers. “In particular, being the most potent psychotropic cannabinoid, THC is the main focus of such studies.”

“THCP is endowed of an even higher binding affinity for CB1 receptor and a greater cannabimimetic activity than THC itself.”

But when it comes to CBDP, the researchers are still unsure whether it can bind well to the CB1 or CB2 receptors, which means that this may not yet be a cash cow for the cannabis industry. “In our opinion, this compound should be included in the list of the main phytocannabinoids to be determined for a correct evaluation of the pharmacological effect of the cannabis extracts administered to patients,” said the researchers.

Why We Should Be Paying Attention To Cannabinoids This Year Onwards

We can’t blame most of the population for only knowing about THC and CBD, the two primary cannabinoid rockstars in cannabis After all, they have taken much of the limelight when it comes to cannabis news.

But let’s not forget that there are hundreds of others that also make up the cannabis plant. Though they seem like minor compounds, they have significant benefits that are unique to THC and CBD, but also work together with them in the entourage effect.

Other cannabinoids haven’t been explored as thoroughly as THC and CBD, but they are worth a look.

Cannabigerol (CBG): CBG was actually one of the first cannabinoids to be found in the cannabis plant way back in the 1960’s. In fact, it’s referred to as the mother of them all. It’s a non-intoxicating cannabinoid, and studies have shown its promise in fighting inflammation and bacterial activity.

Cannabinol (CBN): CBN is recognized for its mild psychoactive effects coupled with strong sedation. It is produced as a byproduct of THC. CBN is commonly found in most strains of cannabis, though it’s only in small amounts. When found in indica strains, it’s one of the compounds responsible for getting you sleepy. Studies have also shown that CBN is helpful in extending sleep time in mice, which makes it promising as a healthy alternative for people suffering from sleep disorders.

Cannabichromene (CBC): The content of CBC in cannabis strains varies from minute amounts to as much as 64%. But CBC has shown to be therapeutic for many reasons, from fighting inflammation, migraines, and even promoting brain growth.

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV): THCV has a molecular structure that is similar to THC, and is known for some mild psychoactive effects. Other effects that THCV has been found to bring about include appetite suppression, stimulation of bone growth, and reduction of diabetes and panic attacks. It’s also though that THCV may be responsible for providing the uplifting and energizing properties of sativa strains.

Cannabidivarin (CBDV): CBDV has many therapeutic benefits that are similar to CBD, such as their ability to treat seizures and cut down inflammation.

Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA): THCA is the precursor to THC, which means it won’t get you high unless it’s exposed to heat when you smoke the plant or decarboxylate it. But THCA is abundant in raw, fresh cannabis bud. It’s been found to have a diverse range of health benefits especially for pain management and reducing inflammation.

This year may be the start of even more studies and developments in cannabinoids. Stay tuned to more exciting news on these compounds.